the spring tote goes all trendy

Have you jumped on the chevron wagon yet?  I found this great chevron print fabric at Fabric.com and knew it was meant for a tote bag.  There is something about spring that gets me sewing these tote bags (which is probably why I named my tutorial the Spring Tote).

 

For an easy way to add a pocket to the outside of your tote, simply line a pocket up between the straps.  For this pocket, I measured the distance between the straps, and added a little extra so there would be some overlap.  I finished the bottom seam and added bias tape to the top.  You don't really need to finish the side seams, because they will be sewn under the straps.  

Pin the pocket in place and sew the bottom seam to the bag.  Then place your straps, and sew according to the spring tote tutorial, making sure the sides of the pocket get caught in the strap seam.

I usually add inside pockets these days as well.  You can do giant pockets that are sewn into the side seams, or small pockets, like I added here.  A little bias trim on the pocket adds a nice bit of contrast.

Have you made a spring tote?  If so, I'd love to see a picture in the Flickr group!

spring church party 2011

Please forgive my recent absence ... things have been busy around here!  Last night we had our annual spring celebration for the women's organization at my church.  I had a lot of fun with the decorations this year - the theme was light-oriented, so we went overboard with lanterns, twinkle lights, and etched candle votives (75 of them!).  And of course, lots of pretty flowers.  You can never go wrong with flowers.

It was a special evening with delicious food, a fun atmosphere, and lovely company.  And I'm not kidding on the food - our dessert bar included vanilla bean creme brulee.  My mouth is still watering!

p.s.  I found my white paper lanterns for a great price at The Paper Lantern Store.   I went with the 10 inch lanterns, and they were a nice quality and the perfect size.