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Intermediate
Make this pretty tote bag in the stripwork option with ruffle trim, or save a bit of time and use just one fabric and piping for a simpler effect.
3/4 ABOUT THIS PROJECT:
These very easy instructions are great for those with intermediate sewing skills. There are instructions for two different types of interior pockets - a simple patch pocket or a hidden zipper pocket for more advanced sew-ers. A button with elastic loop closure or magnetic snap closure keep everything secure. Choose between three different strap lengths - short for a handbag style, medium (as shown) for a standard tote bag, and long for a cross-body bag.
3/4 REQUIRED MATERIALS:
*IF MAKING THE STRIPWORK STYLE TOTE: 1/3 yard of at least 2 and up to 12 different
fabrics, depending on the look you prefer. (If making from scraps, the strips should
measure 11" tall x 6" wide.)
OR
*IF MAKING THE TOTE WITH ONE FOCUS FABRIC: 2/3 yard exterior focus fabric
For both styles of tote, you will also need:
1/2 yard coordinating fabric for exterior top, bottom, and outside straps (bottom-weight
fabrics such as denim, canvas duck, corduroy, etc, will work best. Quilting cottons will
work fine, but will need an extra 1/2 yard fusible fleece interfacing.)
3/4 yard coordinating fabric* for lining & inside straps
1/3 yard fabric* for interior pockets (optional)
1/4 yard fabric* for ruffles (optional) OR 1 yard of piping or pre-ruffled trim (also optional)
2/3 yard fusible fleece interfacing (I like Pellon brand 987F) at least 40" wide
1/3 yard lightweight fusible interfacing
6" of 1/4" wide elastic**
1 button measuring between 1 1/2" to 2"** (a button with a shank will work best for this
project)
erasable marker or pencil
1 safety pin (to pull the elastic through the casing)
12" zipper (optional - if making the zipper pocket)
* Suitable fabrics include quilting cottons, calico or other lightweight wovens. This fabric
will be gathered, so heavyweight fabrics will be more difficult to work with.
** If you prefer to use a magnetic snap closure instead of a button & loop closure, omit
the elastic and button and purchase a magnetic snap instead.
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My goal is to make sewing FUN and frustration-free for all who use my patterns. Aivilo patterns are written in everyday English, as if a friend were telling you how to sew, with full color photos illustrating the process step-by-step. Each pattern is tested by a panel of sewists of many skill levels - to ensure the instructions are clear so you can enjoy a frustration-free sewing experience. ...
My goal is to make sewing FUN and frustration-free for all who use my patterns. Aivilo patterns are written in everyday English, as if a friend were telling you how to sew, with full color photos illustrating the process step-by-step. Each pattern is tested by a panel of sewists of many skill levels - to ensure the instructions are clear so you can enjoy a frustration-free sewing experience. Plus, if you have any questions while sewing, I'm always available at aivilocharlotte@gmail.com to help you.
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