Saturday, July 21, 2007

My First Attempt

This is my first attempt at making a tote bag. I designed the pattern myself based roughly on the finished size of a bag I already own. I have been reading up online & tried to incorporate some different techniques that I've read about here and can't help but be inspired by the bags I see here & here. Take a look see:

I purchased the fabric from a super limited selection at my local Wal-mart & only spent about $7 {with some fabric left over}. I wanted to make a limited investment in case I screwed up royally. The interior has a side pocket which is divided for a pen/pencil on the left & miscellaneous on the right:

I am really fairly happy with the way it turned out. Do you think these would make nice gifts? What about if I included one of these to match? Or I was thinking I could try to make one slightly shorter with more pockets, a magnetic closure, and a matching changing pad for a simple diaper bag. Can't wait to start on the next one!

8 comments:

Anonymous said...

I think you did a fantastic job, it is very cool and very in. I would totally carry something like that around although I am a huge purse/tote person. I am proud of you Bec nice going!!!! As far as the note thing I think it would depend on the person. But overall, Fantastic dearie!!!

Erin said...

There are so many cool designer fabrics available now. I don't know if you have heard of Heather Ross but I would love for you to make a "fish in bags" print as a diaper bag(of course for yourself ;) ) SO CUTE. Also check out Alexander Henry's Kleo print...oh my goodness...to die for. Well...not die...but you get the jist.

Good job. It looks good. I think you could shorten it up a bit and make very cute purses with magnetic closures too. Those would be a better gift for the younger crowd too. Although honestly I wish I could make one for Kyla's preschool tote. They aren't allowed to bring a regular backpack so I have to make one or buy one.

Anyways...

Rebecca said...

Thanks guys! I made another one for my mom yesterday & tried to improve it a little. On this one, the bottom pink panel isn't lined up perfectly at the edges, so I made sure to do that. Also, I top-stitched along the bottom panel part for a nice decorative effect. I also reinforced the handles when I sewed them on to make them extra sturdy.

Whoa, Erin. I didn't realize you were even "into" fabric. Who'd a thunk it? I will go check out those designs right now ;>)

What's with all the "no backpacks allowed" rule? I've come across this a couple of times so far?? I could try and make her {a smaller} one if you want to buy the fabric......

Erin said...

I don't know why they are "banning" backpacks...but I think it might have to do with the zippers.

I would love to get some fabric for a tote for her! About how much would you need?

P.S.-Did you check out those prints yet???

Hollie said...

I think you did a great job and the pockets inside are a great idea too! You should totally sell those!! We had a lady bring a bunch of hand made purses into the bank I work at and leave them there for all of us to look and buy if we wanted. I think just about every lady there bought one! It would be a great way to make some extra cash!!!

Rebecca said...

I did check out the fabrics & as it turns out, I've seen Heather Ross's stuff before & I love it. I really like her bikes on the white background for some reason. I'm gonna have to use it for something. I couldn't find anyone selling the "Pet Shop Cuties" {fish in bags}. One place says they are sold & an on backorder until September. I will email you the specs on the bag......

That is so weird about the backpacks. Another place I read her son has to use a MESH bag. What? For school?


Hol: That's a great idea. I'm not sure mine are "professional" enough to sell, but maybe after I get some practice they will be. Thanks!

Anonymous said...

OMG!!! That bad is so COOL!!!
I would love it!
Sign me up for one... PLEASE!!!!
Love, your favorite cousin!

Anonymous said...

I meant BAG. LOL