What size bag (or purse!) do you prefer as your everyday go-to bag?

A smaller essentials-only bag, or a larger tote for all the bits and bobs that you maybe might one day need?

If you like your bag somewhere between small and large - a Goldilocks of bags! - then have a little look through our curated list of sewing patterns for medium-sized bags!

Louise Barrel Bag from Swoon Sewing Patterns

Photo credit: Connie Tkach

"Louise is a stylish and unique take on the timeless barrel bag. The extra long zipper opens wide for easy access and gives the bag its classic shape by snapping to the sides. One interior pocket holds any small items and the pattern includes an optional shoulder strap in addition to the handles. Instructions are included for using both vinyl and woven fabrics."

The Ring Sling from Sewing Patterns by Mrs H

Photo credit: Lynne from Lynne's Selections

The Ring Sling is a fab quick sew for beginner bag makers! You can wear this versatile bag as a shoulder handbag or as a crossbody sling bag, and it's packed with pockets to carry all your essential items. This is rated a beginner's bag and has been tested by a wide variety of new bagmakers to ensure it's clear and easy to follow.

Sadie Expandable Bag from Swoon Sewing Patterns

Photo credit: Sandra Butler Sawyer

"An expandable bag to fit any occasion, Sadie includes a zippered gusset allowing it to grow with whatever your day may bring. Featuring a shoulder strap, flap closure and two large slip pockets, it is roomy enough to store all of your necessities while looking extremely chic."

The Loopy Lou from Sewing Patterns by Mrs H

Photo credit: Jana Hammond

The Loopy Lou is a great structured handbag. Get the eye-candy look without the usual hard work! Ideal for beginners, this pattern is a quick sew with a satisfying end result! The Loopy Lou has a long strap, so that you can use it as a shoulder bag, as well as short handles at the top of the bag to let you carry it as a tote bag. Inside The Loopy Lou you'll find a slip pocket as well as a zip pocket, ideal for organising your belongings!

Rosie Crossbody Bag from Swoon Sewing Patterns

Photo credit: Alicia Miller

"Rosie is a comfortable crossbody bag with an effortless, casual style. She features a long adjustable strap, two zippered pockets and a roomy main compartment."

The Dainty Daytripper from Sewing Patterns by Mrs H

The Dainty Daytripper is a multipurpose bag designed for adventure! Wear it as a backpack, if you need to keep your hands free, or lengthen the straps and use The Dainty Daytripper as a crossbody or shoulder bag. The Dainty Daytripper is a beautifully bling-y bag, making good use of bag hardware. As well as the bag frame, the sewing pattern also calls for diamond strap anchors and rivets. The front pocket of The Dainty Daytripper is the perfect size to show off fabric panels or for some embroidery. This bag has a zipped pocket and a hidden pocket on the front, as well as a zip pocket and a slip pocket inside.

Charlotte City Tote from Swoon Sewing Patterns

Photo credit: Jennifer Greene

"A stylish chic tote featuring hanging handles, a magnetic snap top closure and vinyl overlays that present a store-bought look and feel. The interior is spacious with a zippered pocket and small strap connecting the two sides, giving this mid-sized tote its classic functional shape."

The Holey Mayole from Sewing Patterns by Mrs H

Photo credit: Lynn from She Wears Red Feathers

The Holey Mayole bag sewing pattern is a great way to learn new techniques and skills.This stylish handbag features a faux double welt slip pocket, a zip pocket with facing and handles which slip strikingly through the ultra secure flap. This modern bag is easy to customise. If you decide to make the flap without the hole, you can instead attach a crossbody strap to the sides and use this purse as a crossbody or shoulder bag, instead of as a handbag.

Sydney Crossbody from Swoon Sewing Patterns

Photo credit: Jennifer Greene

"The perfect balance of form and function, this large everyday crossbody bag is ideal for daily use. It features multiple storage options, including two pleated cargo pockets, a large zippered pocket, a back slip pocket and a zippered pocket inside. A zip top opening keeps belongings secure and a wide crossbody strap ensures carrying comfort."

The Jangles Anchor Bag from Sewing Patterns by Mrs H

The Jangles Anchor Bag is a stylish and modern handbag, with a structured feel and plenty of bag bling! It's perfect for tucking under your arm as you shop or while out with friends or family. With a zipped central divider, a zip pocket and slip pocket, it's great for helping to organise all the things you need to carry with you. And the space between the zip bridge and the top of the bag is just the right size to carry a folded umbrella!

Do you prefer a smaller bag or a larger carry all? Take a look at our recommended small bag sewing patterns, large bag sewing patterns, and patterns that come in multiple sizes!

Have you already sewn your ideal bag? Enter a photo of it into our giveaway gallery before noon UK time on 28th September 2021 for the chance to win a gift subscription to the Bag of the Month Club - www.mrs-h.com/your-perfect-handmade-bag