I’ve always been a fan of hip bags—they’re the perfect solution to carry just the essentials, but here’s the problem: most of the ones I’ve come across in stores are way too small. I’d end up with a bag that couldn’t fit my phone, let alone my other must-haves like sunscreen, a wallet, or keys. I’d often have to settle for carrying a larger crossbody bag or even a backpack, which felt like overkill for a quick outing.
That’s when I decided to create a hip bag that checks all the boxes: roomy yet compact, functional yet stylish, and easy to wear. I’m thrilled to introduce my latest sewing pattern—the Ava Hip Bag! This versatile bag is ideal for running errands, casual outings, or travelling light. It is perfect for those who love a hands-free accessory like me.
Make Your Own Stylish Hip Bag
One of the best things about the pattern is how customisable it is. You can choose fabrics matching your style— bold prints, soft neutrals, or even faux leather for a chic look. Add decorative rims, embroidery, contrast zippers, or mix and match colours to create something truly unique.
What Makes this Hip Bag Special?
This pattern is packed with features designed to make your life easier:
- Front and back zipper pockets: I designed this bag to include not one but two convenient outer pockets! I like to keep my phone in the front pocket for easy access—perfect for when I need to grab it quickly. The back pocket is great for smaller items like house keys, lip balm, or anything you want to keep tucked away but still within reach.
- A wide zipper opening: Let’s face it—there’s nothing worse than struggling with a small bag opening. In the past, I’ve used store-bought waist bags with tiny openings, and it was so frustrating! I could never see what was inside, and I’d end up rummaging around endlessly for my lip balm or hand cream. That’s why the Ava Hip Bag features a wide zipper opening. With this design, you can see all your items at a quick glance—no more searching!
- A spacious main compartment: The fully lined interior offers plenty of room for all your daily essentials. Everything fits neatly, whether it’s your wallet, sunglasses, or a small notebook. Plus, the main compartment includes an additional zipper pocket, which is perfect for keeping cash and coins secure.
- Six built-in card slots: Forget the need to carry an extra wallet! These slots are perfect for organising your bank, loyalty, and business cards. No more digging around when you need them—they’re all in one handy spot.
You can wear it around your waist or across your chest, making it a versatile accessory that suits everybody. Whether you’re going for sporty, casual, or somewhere in between, the Ava Hip Bag perfectly complements your outfit.
Finished Measurements
W x H x D
35.5 cm x 19 cm x 12 cm (14” x 7 1/2” x 4 3/4”)
What’s the Difficulty Level?
The pattern is labelled intermediate, but don’t let that intimidate you!
If you know how to sew zippers around curves, you’ll have no problem making this bag—even if you’re a confident beginner.
The pattern comes with clear instructions and helpful tips to guide you through every step of the process. The construction is straightforward, and you’ll love how quickly the bag comes together. It’s a satisfying project that looks professional when finished, whether you make it for yourself or as a thoughtful gift for someone else.
Supplies You’ll Need for the Hip Bag
Before you start making the Ava Hip Bag, ensure you have all the necessary supplies. Here’s a comprehensive list of everything you’ll need for this project:
Width x Height
- 90 cm x 45 cm (36” x 18”) External fabric: cotton, waterproof canvas, wax cotton, cork, faux leather etc.
- 112 cm x 80 cm (44” x 32”) Lining fabric: quilting cotton, waterproof canvas etc.
- 50 cm x 70 cm (20” x 28”) Stabiliser (optional): Fusible Fleece (Heat N Bond, Vilene H640 )
- 90 cm x 130 cm (36” x 51”) Woven fusible interfacing: Stayflex, SF101, Wovenfuse, G700 etc.
- 28 cm x 7 cm (11” x 3”) Non-fraying fabric: vinyl, leather, cork, etc. (For the pocket overlay.)
- 2.5 cm (1”) D-ring x 2, swivel hook x 2 (You will need them only when making a detachable strap.)
- 2.5 cm (1”) Side release buckle x 1, slider x 1 (Depending on the style of your buckle, you may not need the slider.)
- #5 Nylon coil zipper 42 cm (16 1/2”) x 1 – double pull
- #5 Nylon coil zipper 26 cm (10 1/4”) x 2 – single pull
- #3 Nylon coil zipper 21 cm (8 1/4”) x 1
- 2.5 cm (1”) Webbing strap x 1.5 m (1.6 yards)
- Double-sided tape
- Name tag, care label (optional)
- Multi-surface glue (optional)
- Stay tape (optional)
Video Tutorial Available on My YouTube Channel
If you prefer a more hands-on approach, I’ve got you covered! I’ve created a comprehensive video tutorial on my YouTube channel for the Ava Hip Bag pattern. In this video, I walk you through the entire process of making the bag—from start to finish. Not only do I guide you step-by-step, but I also share my favourite tips and techniques to help make your sewing experience easier and more enjoyable.
Be sure to check it out before you start your project—it’s the perfect companion to the pattern and will give you the confidence to sew your very own stylish, hands-free accessory.
Get the Pattern and Start Sewing Today!
The Ava Hip Bag perfectly blends functionality, style, and convenience. Whether you’re out running errands, enjoying a casual day out, or travelling light, this bag will keep your essentials close and organised without weighing you down.
I hope you’re as excited to sew this pattern as I was to design it! With its thoughtful features and easy-to-follow instructions, this bag is fun to make and incredibly useful once finished.
The pattern is available now in my shop, and for the first 72 hours, you can get it at 30% off—no code needed! Don’t miss out on this limited-time offer to create your very own hands-free, functional bag that’s perfect for everyday wear.
I’m so excited to see what you create with this pattern, and I hope it becomes your go-to accessory for years to come! Be sure to share your makes on social media and tag me @allsewpetite so I can see how you’ve made the pattern your own. Whether you’re using fun prints or classic neutrals, I can’t wait to see your version of this bag!
Get Inspired: Pattern Testers’ Makes
Need some inspiration before you begin? Be sure to check out the amazing makes from my pattern testers! They’ve created some truly stunning versions of the Ava Hip Bag, each with unique fabric choices and personal touches.
Whether you’re looking for fabric ideas or styling tips, these beautiful creations will spark your creativity and help you make the perfect version of the pattern.
“Ava is a stylish looking hip or sling bag that is loaded with pockets! 3 zipper pockets and 6 card pockets. The main zipper compartment contains the card pockets and a zipper pocket, but it has room for holding eyeglasses or other items too. The back zipper pocket has such a pretty overlay that it is a shame it isn’t seen when it’s against your body. The front zipper pocket is super handy to access whatever you place inside this pocket. Such a fun bag overall!” @patchoulimoonstudio
“Well written and easy to understand. Photos help a lot throughout. Not a difficult pattern and should be suitable for most advanced beginners.” @SparrowStudio
“It was actually one of the easiest patterns to follow, every step was well written. I can see myself making this again in the future, maybe a little smaller.” @jhejza
“A fantastic pattern it goes together perfectly and love that it didn’t need binding.” @pegcoombes
“I think it is gorgeous. The hip bag is spacious; the pattern is simple and clearly written. I think that even beginners will succeed with pattern instruction. The photos are well-made and sharp, which allows you to enlarge them when reading.” @sewela_sewing
“I like this pattern. It has so many pockets to keep everything in its place. Roomy enough for a phone and keys and keeps it all safe.”
“This is amazing! The bag is quick to put together once the pieces are cut too 🤩🤩. I really love the shape of the bag and the compartments.” @chavanthandmade
“I’m not usually a hip bag person, but this one is great! I like the card pockets and all the rest of the pockets. Lots of room for anything I might want to carry.”
“I really like the bag! It’s larger than I realized. It easily switches from a hip bag to crossbody. Plenty of places to tuck all your essentials and more.” @mtspool
“This is a great pattern and loved sewing it. It took me about 1 hour to cut out my pattern and pieces and then another 4/5 hours to sew up my bag. This was a fun sew and really love the final look.” @lehuacreations
“Love the shape of the bag, it’s roomy and a great sew. But if I make it again I would make it smaller (personal preference).” @iamglendasam
“This was the first time I was sewing a hip bag! Honestly I was presently surprised how it turned out! 😍 A very well written great pattern!” @orchic_handmade
“I loved it. The shape is very flattering. I need to make it at 85% as I’d like a smaller version as well.” @oliveiraoriginals
“Ava hip bag has a good shape and it is quite capacious bag, I see myself wearing it on my travels.” @uduheeringas
“I love this waist bag. The pattern was confident beginner friendly. I like the amount of pockets this bag has too. The main compartment is very roomy, and I like the security of the back zippered pocket. This bag does not use a lot of hardware, especially if not making the detachable strap. Thank you, Monika!” @edgeanddolor
“I loved the pattern and thought it went together easily. I do not have a similar pattern so I liked this one very much. It could be worn as a fanny bag (waist bag), crossbody or sling style. I love all of the zippers! This is definitely my new favorite bag.”
“I love the size and shape of the bag, as well as the functionality. It’s very spacious and easy to wear. I like having multiple pockets and card slots for organizing things!”
“I love this pattern! The pattern pieces are easy to assemble, and they come together very smoothly. The outcome is beautiful, and the bag is large enough for more than your daily essentials. It can be made in a wide variety of fabrics. I love it!” @libylulasgarden
“Came out nicely.”
“For a smaller framed person as myself I would prefer a smaller sized piece but the number of pockets and compartments are great.” @marciapantin
Aren’t these versions of the Ava Hip Bag absolutely amazing? Which one is your favourite? Or better yet, what colours and fabrics will you use for your bag? I’d love to hear your ideas, so let me know in the comments! ⬇️
Stay crafty friend!!!
Hello,
Is there a Ava Hip Bag free pattern anywhere? I’d love to try to make this.
Sharyn
I have many free patteern, but Ava is not one of them. You can purchase the pattern here: https://allsewpetite.com/product/ava-hip-bag-pattern/