black eiffel

Do you read Black Eiffel? A few months ago I met with Rachel Jones to show her the L Letterpress. She has a fun blog that features posts on design, style, inspiration and more. Her blog is even part of Martha's Circle!

Luckily she lives right here in Utah so we could easily meet in person. It's always fun to get to demo and talk about the tool to new people. Right now, she's giving away an L Letterpress. Enter here!

letterpress giveaway

We're giving away an L Letterpress Combo Kit and a custom printing plate at the L Blog ($190 value)! Click here to find out how you can win.

tote bag

TOTE BAG

Lauren and I actually started working on these last Christmas. Again, I had a basic pattern but ended up not liking the results so she and my mom helped create this version. Over Christmas break we made at least 10 in a variety of colors (yellow, green, red, blue). I have loved them. I use the tote to carry just about anything - baby supplies (diapers/wipes), toys, snacks, books etc. To make the tote a little more unique and fun, I added an applique to the front (watch for a future tutorial on how to use your QuicKutz Silhouette, vinyl and digital design to easily make applique patterns.) Be sure to make a comment here for a chance to win one of 4 items including this tote!

What you'll need:

- canvas

- lining fabric

- coordinating thread

- sewing machine

- appliques

Step 1: Cut out a 14 1/2" x 25 1/2" rectangle from the outer fabric and lining fabric. Also, cut 2 8" x 17" strips for the handles.

Step 2: Fold the rectangle in half and sew along the sides. Do this with both the inner and outer fabric, however, with the lining fabric, leave a 4" gap in the middle of a side seam.

Step 3: Flatten the corners and mark where it is 4" across. Sew across this line and cut off the excess. Set aside the lining for later.

Step 4: Turn right side out and iron the sides of the bag starting from the corners made. Once all are ironed, topstitch each side and bottom crease.

Step 5: Create handles: Iron the strips in half then re-open. Fold each side into the center crease and iron. Fold and in half and press. Topstitch both sides of the handle. Repeat with second strip.

Step 6: Attach handles: From the outer edge measure in 2" and attach one end of the handle. Do the same on the other side. Repeat with second handle.

Step 7: Attach lining. Turn lining inside out and place outer bag inside of lining. Pin around upper edges and sew in place.

Step 8: Turn bag right side out through the hole in the lining. Topstitch the lining to close the hole.

Step 9: Topstitch the upper edge of bag.

Step 10: Add embellishments such as embroidery or an applique to make your bag your own!