Victoria Tote Bag Finished!

Finished my tote bag 'Victoria Tote' by RebeccaMaeDesigns. Found the pattern on Craftsy.

I had been looking for bags for a while. I find bags quite hard to look for as they are very individual. I was looking for something that was not too floppy with some structure in it. Also needed to be not too big but also not too small...just right. I liked the pattern by RebeccaMae Designs as it used coordinating fabrics with additional outline quilting...again adding to the stability of the bag. In looking at bags I am somewhat limited, so the bag needed to have some hardware, but not too much, otherwise it would be too difficult for me. So this one had a zipper pocket inside, a magnetic closure and some D rings...this sounded do-able. A little bit of challenge, but not too difficult. In purchasing this pattern I also checked out what the designer was using for stabilization...in this case it was fusible fleece and interfacing. Having completed some boxy bags with fusible fleece, I quite liked working with it. Also the bag pattern had additional options...a patchwork option and another bag with additional hardware (swivel clips for the handles).

Making it was thoroughly enjoyable. The pattern was easy to follow with a photo for every step, so off I went...

Exterior Panels done

Exterior completed

The structure of the bag is just right for me...firm but not stiff and as you can see it nicely holds its shape.

Have no pictures of making the lining as I got totally immersed in doing it. Here was the zipper pocket and I must say I was somewhat nervous about this. The pattern said 'You can do this!'...cutting a slit into my panel filled me with horror, however followed the pictures and managed to insert the zipper on the second attempt and it is looking pretty good. Similarly with those magnetic closures...no trouble at all! Also like the fitting of the lining...fitted like a glove.

Inside of bag

The completed bag looks fantastic

11.5"H x 11"W x 4"D

The length of the handles is just the way I like it

Beautiful tote...I still got fabric left over for a second tote...bonus!

Made some hilarious mistakes during this bag-making exercise. Somehow, inexplicably, fused a dark thread into one of the panels. As I had taken my time with the fusing, there was no way I could remove this to retrieve the thread...had to prey the thread out from the front without causing a disaster. Could not believe it!
Second issue occurred during the final stages late at night. Had turned the bag through the lining and had spent some time, neatly sewing the lining close...then discovered a pin on the inside of the upper section...WHAT??...had to undo some of my lining and retrieve the pin. Anyway, all worked out, but did have some anxious moments with this.

Until next time

Karin