Simply Classic

05/28/2026

Wrinkly bags no more! The Laurastar Smart U ironing system is a game changer for working with faux leather. It has a detachable Teflon soleplate that works wonders on faux leather and vinyl, as well as delicate fabrics like silk. At I used it to smooth out my Cianna crossbody, and it blew me away. You can see here, it’s powerful and very easy to use.

Keep in mind, this is a sophisticated ironing system — not just an iron. If you’re a serious sewist looking to upgrade your workroom, you’ve got to give the Smart U a try. It’s perfect for professional bag makers, small businesses, and hardcore hobbyists alike.

I’m curious, have you tried this smart iron? Or maybe you have other tips for de-wrinkling faux leather safely — let me know!

05/27/2026

Going live in a few minutes to make the Julie. Come hang out and sew with me!

Make the Julie tote with Chris Murphy live! Get the Julie pattern h...

05/26/2026

My new industrial machine is portable, and some of you asked how that works. *This* is the answer.

Reliable Corporation has it covered with the CudaCase, a hard case with wheels and a telescopic handle. After trying it at , I’ll definitely be getting one for my Barracuda Straight Stitch.

Learn more about this machine and the on Reliable’s website. You can find my affiliate link at simplyclassic.net/recs — that’s where I share all of my favorite bag making tools and products.

Can’t wait to show you more of this machine soon!

05/20/2026

This week only, enjoy an additional 10% off clearance faux leather when you use code EXTRA10 at checkout. That includes *ALL* of our clearance faux leather and vinyl, excluding mystery boxes/scraps. Keep in mind that these products have been discontinued by our manufacturer, so once they’re gone they will not be returning.

Swipe to see some of the options and how I used them. Which patterns/colors caught your attention? Personally, I love the symmetric look of the brick crocodile - but it’s impossible to choose just one favorite. 🧐❤️

05/15/2026

How does the new Janome HD9 QC handle real leather? I tried it out at H+H Americas and was very impressed! Here it is in action.

05/13/2026

The Bernette b08 is smooth like butter 😍

If you’re in the market for a domestic straight stitch machine that gives industrials a run for their money, the b08 is an excellent choice. You may have seen me use it in my YouTube videos or virtual sew alongs — and if so, you know why I love it!

I recommend using TEX-45 thread (I used Fusion 45 by Hab+Dash) and a 90/14 leather needle for a professional finish. In this video, I’m stitching four layers of our textured faux leather and it works like a dream.

If you purchase this machine from the Premier Stitching website, you can use coupon code CHRISMURPHY to save 15%: https://www.premierstitching.com/bernette-b08-straight-stitch-sewing-machine/?ref=xsunvxqq (affiliate link)

You can also check out our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/ for a closer look at how the Bernette b08 straight stitch machine handles leather, faux leather, and more.

05/07/2026

There’s something very unique about this bag ,made by Cheryle at Cheryle Taylor Designs. Can you guess what it is?

It’s not just the layered design of the Novella, or the hanging pocket…it’s a material she used.

Spoiler: She used adhesive lining! It’s a super thin nylon fabric with a self-adhesive backing. Usually it’s used for things like credit card slots, wallets, and makeup bags. But Cheryle took a chance and used it to make this stunning top handle bag — our newest pattern, the Novella.

I haven’t tried this myself, but I’m very impressed with the result. Cheryle paired our cream adhesive lining with white and pink faux leather for a feminine look. The finished bag is absolutely beautiful. 🤍🤍🤍