It is hard not to miss the women who carry their temple clothing in a full length garment bag, while you are walking around the locker room. They are full length but fold up so nicely, yet still keep your cloths from wrinkling. I know every time I iron my clothes I think how nice it would be to have a bag to hang them in so they didn't wrinkle so easily!

We found an ancient Homemaking manual that had direction on how to make your own Temple garment bag. The best part about making your own garment bag is that you can choose a fabric and pattern that suit you. Simple & black or maybe you'd like something a little bolder than that?! Depending on where you buy your fabric and whether or not you use coupons; this project will cost approximately $30.00.

layout & design by Heather Hales senior editor

Print the pattern-PDF's: Page 1, Page 2

What You Need:

• an intermediate to advanced knowledge of sewing.
• sewing machine & thread
• 2yds of 45inch wide quilted fabric (double-sided or single-sided will work) if person is over 5'4 tall then 2 1/4yds. may be needed
• 3yds of lace or ribbon for trim
• 6in. of Velcro
• 35in zipper
• Plastic Hanger
  

Directions:

1. Follow cutting directions according to the cutting layout. Cut curve at top of bag to measure hanger length. be sure to cut the bag 56 in. or longer if needed.
   
2. Cut out Main Pocket and Flap, be sure to cut along the fold line. Cut inside pocket (rectangle)on the fold and recommend pocket on the selvage.
   
3. Hem long rectangle edge of inside pocket and turn other edges under. Stitch pocket on front of bag 8 inches down from center top. Hem recommend pocket to 2.5 inches x 3.5 inches sew on right side of main pocket.
   
4. Hem top straight edge of main pocket. Stitch trim to other edges. Center Velcro piece and stitch on inside hemmed edge. Stitch pocket to front of bag. Bottom of pocket measures about 18 inches down from bag top. Stitch Velcro on bag to meet Velcro on pocket.
   
5. Sew trim to the three straight sides of flap piece. Lay flap curved edge at top of bag over main pocket. Stitch raw edges of flap and top of bag together to hold in place.
   
6. Turn bag, placing right sides together. Stitch across top curved edge, leaving a 2 inch opening in center for hanger hook. Reinforce ending stitches and turn raw edge under and hem by hand.
   
7. Stitch along bottom of bag and up one side to the point were the zipper will end. Turn bag to right side, stitch zipper into side opening.
   
8. Make loop of ribbon and stitch at center of bag front about 17 inches from bottom finished edge.
   
9. Insert hanger into bag.
   
10. Fold bottom third of bag to the back. Fold top third over back of bag, and slip ribbon loop over hanger.