Tinker Tote 2

A few months ago, I made a Tinker Tote following Tara Rebman’s Craftsy class: Quilt as You Go Patchwork Bags. Having little to no experiences with bags, or the quilt as you go technique, she did an amazing job breaking down the process to assemble her quilted tote.  Of course, I’ve been carrying my bag around everywhere I go, and Mom asked me if I could make her one as well.  Of course!

Without further ado…here is Tinker Tote 2!

Mom was interested in a more springy pattern so we ordered a scrap pack from Southern Fabric from Amy Butler’s Lark collection.  The colors are so vibrant.  I definitely need a little more Amy Butler in my life!!

Several hours later, I put together two bag panels, including a linen bottom.  These panels are heavy-duty with a layer of fabric, batting and duck cloth. The duck cloth provides enough support so that the bag isn’t floppy, but it’s still soft.

We picked a beautiful floral print for the inside lining, which is also made sturdier with a layer of interfacing.

You can’t have a functional bag without some pockets. The first is a basic pocket, which I divided to fit her iPhone.  My hubby has the same iPhone version that she has, and he was a little nervous when I asked if I could use his phone for my quilting project!  Don’t worry, no phones were harmed in the making of this bag.

A zipper pocket too!

Just like last time, the most challenging part of the bag is the finishing touch, the bias binding around the handles.

So. Many. Pins.

I decided to finish the binding by hand.  It just looks so much better!

Mom’s loving her new bag and as Mom’s do…shows it off to all her friends.  She’s an excellent advertiser!

Check out Tara’s Craftsy class if you want to make a Tinker Tote too.  They’re fun!!