The idea of a quilted tote bag has been on my mind for months. I wasn't sure how to do it, since I have never quilted before. You can read more about how I started this project in my previous post click here. This post is (captain obvious), about how I finished the quilted tote bag.
And there's a special surprise! The Quilted Tote Bag will be included in a Kick Starter Project coming up! To be Announced soon! For now, back to this project.
And there's a special surprise! The Quilted Tote Bag will be included in a Kick Starter Project coming up! To be Announced soon! For now, back to this project.
One thing I noticed is that this project took me longer than I thought. However it was totally worth it because I'm loving the results! What makes me smile even more is that it's a one of a kind creation.
It took me over the course of two weeks to make this tote bag. I also didn't have an exact image of how it would look. I saw an image in my mind of a quilted tote bag and the idea of making a bag from quilted squares and how I would make them lay flat.
Mostly everything else came together on it's own. Last week I was trying to figure out how to make the seams on the sides (I did it the same way I was doing the other seams a.k.a. the yellow strips of fabric). I also figured out the inside of the tote bag.
The tote handles (photos above) were sewn almost last. I love how some tote bags have this square with x's in them stitch pattern. It seems to hold the handles in well. I also did a zig zag stitch across the top of the tote bag to secure the handles even more. Plus the lining was more secure that way.
I think I've succeeded in stitching all raw edges and I'm really satisfied with this project. The quilted tote bag turned out better than I imagined, probably because now I can see all the detail!
Making the label is fun as always! I get so excited about picking colorful fabric markers. I stamped and hand stitched the label in. Since it's a tote bag, I did not include any pockets on the inside but, it's a very fAncy tote bag!
I'd estimate about 20 pounds of weight inside the tote bag is reasonable. When I was in elementary school, I used to carry 20-25 pounds in my backpack (what was I thinking!). This was before kindles were popular, although there were smart boards in middle school and up.
Anyway, the reason I say 20 pounds is because the lining of the bag (inside) is made of eco-fill fabric (fabric from recycled water bottles) which can tear and rip if too much stretch is applied. So I think up to 5 books or some groceries should be fine or whatever else. I would not suggest putting sharp objects (hence the tear prone fabric near sharp things).
Of course, here's a mini fashion show!
Anyway, the reason I say 20 pounds is because the lining of the bag (inside) is made of eco-fill fabric (fabric from recycled water bottles) which can tear and rip if too much stretch is applied. So I think up to 5 books or some groceries should be fine or whatever else. I would not suggest putting sharp objects (hence the tear prone fabric near sharp things).
Of course, here's a mini fashion show!
As you saw in the photos, it's easy to wear the tote bag on the arm, or in the hand. Is the bag water proof? Hmm, probably if you're stuck in a little bit of rain. Probably not if you're going scuba diving.
Although, you could probably hand washing or spot washing is probably a better option, especially if just a small area.
Can it take some light ironing? Yes, only on a light setting (like synthetic) because, the fabrics are synthetic including the fur. If the fur becomes flat, take a wide toothed comb and brush it out.
Although, you could probably hand washing or spot washing is probably a better option, especially if just a small area.
Can it take some light ironing? Yes, only on a light setting (like synthetic) because, the fabrics are synthetic including the fur. If the fur becomes flat, take a wide toothed comb and brush it out.
Okay I could talk all day about fashion! The photo above is how it looks finished. I will include this tote bag as a prize for a Kick Starter Project coming soon.
Thanks for reading. Be sure to like my Facebook Page for blog updates.
Aura Lavender
Thanks for reading. Be sure to like my Facebook Page for blog updates.
Aura Lavender