Patchwork Tote Bag

SUPPLIES & TOOLS:

• 1/3yd of three different prints to make a patchwork piece approx. 24" X 45" (use 6" X 6" and 6" X 12" pieces)
• 5/8yd fabric for lining
• 1/2yd faux suede
• 1yd iron on interfacing
• 1 3/4" button, 1
• Basic sewing supplies
• Sewing machine

DIRECTIONS:

1. 1/2" seam allowance
2. From patchwork, cut two pieces 19" high x 22" wide (front and back).
3. Cut two pieces lining 18"x 22".
4. Suede: cut two 8"x 22" (bottoms), two 4"x 26" for straps and two 4 1/2"x 6 1/2" for flap.
5. Cut two pieces interfacing 4""x 26" and one 4 1/2"x 6 1/2".
6. Fold under and press one long edge of each piece of suede bag bottom.
7. Pin even with bottom of front and back pieces and topstitch at folded edge.
8. Right sides together, seam side seams and repeat with lining pieces.
9. Turn lining right side out and place inside bag having top seam even, pin.
10. Seam top seam of bag and lining.
11. Turn lining side out and press matching bottom seams.
12. Front sides together, pin bottom and stitch.
13. Fold corners out matching bottom seam and seam at 5".
14. Turn right side out.
15. On wrong side, press interfacing to each strap and one piece of flap.
16. Fold up bottoms of straps 1/2" and press. Fold lengthwise half and in half again and stitch all edges.
17. Right sides together, stitch around flap, leaving one inch for turning. Turn and press.
18. Add a buttonhole.
19. Place straps at top, centering 5" apart and 4" from top. Topstitch to bag.
20. Center back edge of flap onto back and topstitch.
21. Add button.