Large custom market tote bag

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Instructions

adapted the pattern somewhat by changing the handles and adding pockets adapted the pattern somewhat by changing the handles and adding pockets

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Difficulty:

Category: Sewing

Type of item: Accessory

For: Women

Style: Eco-Friendly, Retro / Vintage, Casual, Classic

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Materials

Thrifted new upholstery fabric, decor fabric, thrifted cord for piping, button, fusible interfacing

What was your inspiration?

I love custom tote bags and am looking for patterns that incorporate handles, as I think they are more classic in style and certainly stronger. I am a compulsive thrifter and fabric collector, so have tons of great fabrics to mix and match. I made the first version of the large tote in decorator flowered fabric with a mini gingham lining, and the second version using upholstery fabric and a decorator weight polka dot lining. This was my first try at making piping and I love the look. I used thrifted macrame cord and covered it with the lining fabric. I used vintage buttons for the loop closure and put in inside pockets which were not in the pattern. I also sewed the straps closed and shaped them to fit.

What are you most proud of?

The look of the contrast linings....The smaller bag in front is one similar to the other tote bag project I have posted....much smaller.

What advice would you give someone starting this project?

This pattern is quite easy but misses some key steps. If you have not made bias binding before, you might need to check out a tutorial on that first. The original tied handles will only work with lightweight fabric, so bear that in mind if you want to stick to the tied look.