For Christmas presents in 2012 I had planned to make a bunch of totes. I finished most of them but had one bag still cut out after the holidays and waiting to be created! And even though I really didn’t want to do any more sewing, I hate to start a new project until the previous one is finished. And there are so many things I want to do! So back to the sewing machine.
This bag was different than my typical totes. (The instructions for my shopping totes are here.) I first saw this bag on Pinterest and thought it would be fun to make.
I found the pattern for the same bag by Simplicity. It’s also from StudioCherie but on sale at Joann’s.
This project started out with a strike against it. It called for batting which I really HATE to sew with–probably why I don’t make quilts. Batting just wants to move around the whole time I’m sewing.
I also had trouble finding “jute webbing” for the handles. The first place I checked was at Hobby Lobby and the sales lady showed me cotton belting–the same stuff I use for my other totes. Not wide enough. I asked at Joann’s and the sales lady had never heard of it so in desparation I went through every aisle and found it the upholstery department. It’s cheap and the handles are very sturdy but it has an ugly red pattern on the back.
I also found the instructions confusing–this pattern is not for a beginning sewer.
After cursing at it many times and breaking a few needles I finally finished it. And it’s really nice. And it’s really big! And I’m keeping it for myself!
I might make it again even though it was difficult, because it turned out really nice. I love all the pockets and zippers. But I’ll use fleece instead of batting and look for jute webbing that doesn’t have a red pattern.
Now Maggie and I need to plan a trip so we can use our new bag! On to our next big project!
