I’ve been wanting a lightweight tote bag to carry around when I run errands so being the sewist that I am I decided to make one rather than buy one. I used my beloved Liberty London scraps for my patchwork tote bag but you can use any fabric scraps you have on hand. Also check out out my other fabric scrap projects here.
I have Liberty scrap packs in my Etsy shop or you can check out these Etsy shop listings here and here for some Liberty scraps to make your own patchwork tote.
To create the front of the bag I used a quilt as you go method from this tutorial to sew my fabric scraps to a piece of lightweight cotton. I didn’t use batting since I wanted this bag to be lightweight. This method makes the Liberty lawn more sturdy and removes the need for interfacing.
I boxed the corners of the bag to create a flat bottom using this method.
I lined my tote bag with muslin and used a solid piece of pink Betsy Ann for the back. You can use any lightweight cotton you have on hand for the back and lining of the bag. For the handles I used some leftover quilting cotton from my DIY Quilted Jacket because I wanted the handles to be sturdy and I didn’t want to use interfacing.
The resulting tote bag is not stiff since I used no interfacing and lightweight so it’s great to carry around when I’m running errands. Below is another picture of the bag. See how it is pretty malleable when I put things inside.
I hope this gives you another idea on how to recycle your fabric scraps or if you just don’t have enough fabric consider making that small piece the centerpiece of your quilt as you go front panel. Have a great day and happy “mad” sewing!
Oh my, it’s just SOOOO pretty. A thing of beauty is a joy forever.
I love Liberty fabrics and your bag is very pretty!
Your bag is beautiful, and the collection of fabrics is really wonderful. This would be a fun bag to carry on the commuter train!
Ooh, nicely done! What a great way to use up scraps and have something fun to carry around while shopping! Great job! Could you put a link to TGIFF! in your post so your readers can find us too? Thanks!
I love crazy quilts and how all the patterns and colours come together. Your bag is so sweet. If you’re looking for another place to share your projects, I would love to have you stop by Etcetorize and join our Make it Monday party. It’s open now 🙂
I love mini-print fabrics, and your tote bag shows them off so nicely! Thanks for sharing your project with us at Make It Monday!
What fun this bag is!!! THanks for sharing at Tuesday ARchives!!!
super cool tote! love the patchwork and appreciate the step by step. pinning to save!
Beautiful!!! I’ve just been given some gorgeous Liberty London and a bag like this would be perfect.
Hi, I’ve featured your fab bag today…
This is a lovely bag! I love the idea of recycling to make something beautiful like this.
Daphne
http://www.haak-en-maak.blogspot.nl
Such a pretty bag! I love the idea of using up scraps to make a bag.
This is adorable! Reminds me of Spring time, cute and fresh!
Hi
I have just started sewing and I found your blog through the Threading My Way linky party.
This bag is fantastic, what a wonderful and practical way to use up your scraps.
Michelle :o)
http://stitchunpickrepeat.blogspot.com.au/
You were on a fantastic Liberty roll! 😀 Love all three items – the top, the scarf, and this bag.