Super Online Sewing Match Round Three | It’s A Cinch! Tote
Whew! Round three of the Super Online Sewing Match! If you’re a new visitor to my blog, the SOSM is an online sewing contest sponsored by Sew Mama Sew and Janome. Each round, two contestants are eliminated. Immediately following the elimination, the remaining contestants are given a new sewing challenge. The subject of our third challenge…a tote bag. Specifically, It’s A Cinch! Tote PDF Bag Pattern from u-handbagspattern.com. The last time I sewed a tote or handbag was obviously in the dark ages. Cut two circles and one rectangle of fabric, add a zipper, and voila, the perfect hot dog shaped bag. Ugh! Fortunately, things have changed, and for the better! Cool patterns, endless zipper options, a large selection of handbag hardware, and fabric stabilizers. To be honest, the world of bag interlinings and interfacings, was a wee bit overwhelming. It was, however, something I was keen to be educated on, because I like totes and handbags to have some shape. There were recommendations in the pattern instructions; but a few of the products suggested were unavailable to me. In the end, I used a combination of fusible interfacings, with a deliciously cozy sewn in interlining. {Oops! All this fabric related discussion should be in the paragraph below. Me’s getting ahead of myself.} So, without further ado, I introduce to you, my version of the It’s A Cinch! Tote Bag.
Here are some of the required photos up first.
Front View
Back View
Inside View
Side Hardware Strap Buckled Three Notches
Top Zipper
Side Zipper Pocket
Side Zipper Pocket Opened
The Fabric, The Inspiration, & The Pattern
When I learned that this round’s challenge was a tote bag, I immediately thought ultrasuede. I hadn’t worked with ultrasuede for many years, and discovered that it isn’t sold in very many stores locally. After a few phone calls, I made a trip to Fabricana and quickly experienced sensory overload. So much, so much everything! One of the fun aspects of sewing a tote is that you need so very little fabric. So for me, one whom often scores fabric at thrift shops, it seemed a fair project to splurge a little on fabric if I chose to. But, how would/could I choose? I started with the ultrasuede, and after it was cut, starting cruising the aisles. The aqua/teal patterned home decor fabric quickly caught my eye, and I immediately loved how it complemented the teal ultrasuede. I couldn’t stop there. Across from the ultrasuedes were several different faux leathers, and I bought a small piece of textured cognac leather. I also bought a second home decor fabric that goes brilliantly with the cognac leather…You see, I’m already thinking of a future bag project. As far as the inspiration went, I let the fabric lead the way. I did some tweaks to the pattern, partly out of necessity, and partly to put my own spin on things. I love handbags, and making this tote was creative bliss!
Variations on a Design
The pattern called for a swivel/snap hook on each end of the tote. The theory being that you can cinch the tote smaller if you have less in your bag. I could not find any swivel hooks in shiny brass coloured metal. In fact, the only swivel hooks I found at all were a dull silver colour, and exceedingly large. This was a required element, in that we are asked to show a photo of the ends of the tote, so I decided to make faux leather straps with a buckle. I sewed two layers of the leather together and after punching holes with a regular hole punch, added the grommets. I think that these straps function in the same manner as a swivel hook would. I can cinch the tote by notching the strap.
I altered the top of the tote. I did not cut out the corners at the top, because I wanted the bag to look…well…just like it does. The top ends kind of fold down towards the sides, and I love that.
I added a pocket with decorative detailing to the front of the bag. The zippered pocket side is the side that faces my body when it’s being toted around.
I added decorative faux leather piping detail.
I added decorative faux leather piping detail.
I placed the zippered pocket a little lower than instructed to better fit with the design I was looking for.
I used round rings instead of rectangular rings for the shoulder straps.
I inserted a zippered pocket into the lining, in addition to the elasticized interior pocket.
I changed the dimensions of the tote ever so slightly to fit with my vision.
Side View Showing Strap Unbuckled
Side View Showing Strap Unbuckled
Side View Showing Strap Buckled Four Notches
View of Altered Top Corner of Tote Bag
Top Corner of Tote Bag with Straps Undone and Round Rings
Front Pocket with Decorative Brass Tone Spots and Faux Leather Piping
Inside Zipper Pocket
The Challenges
Is it bad to say that everything was a challenge? Okay, I exaggerate, but this past week was creatively and technically mind expanding. When I was trying to narrow down my fabric choices, I was sure that was the biggest challenge. Ha! As it went, the entire tote turned out to be a giant jigsaw puzzle. Because of the little tweaks I had made, there was a very precise order in how this little beauty was to be constructed. I did make a muslin first; but just of the basic shape, no zips or straps, or anything that was actually hard to do; you know, the steps that really would have benefited from a practice run. Nuh-uh, let’s leave all that for the good fabric. I went slowly, stepped away several times, and even had to sleep on it a few times… not the tote, the problem. All the while, the clock ticking towards our deadline. My fabric choices were not without their unique challenges. Faux leather likes to skip stitches. I don’t have a walking foot, or a teflon foot, but I have a lot of parchment paper. So, I put a layer of parchment paper between my presser foot and the leather, and it worked quite well….unless you prefer to actually see where you’re sewing. Ultrasuede can’t be pinned, faux leather can’t be ironed. Three colours of thread. Three different needles. I was changing needles from a denim needle {recommended for the faux leather}, to a regular needle, to a ball point needle with abandon. At one point, I was stitching through a layer of ultrasuede, two layers of faux leather, a layer of interlining, and the upholstery fabric. My sewing machine was groaning. BUT…I’m not complaining! Yes, my brain is toast as I type this; but I didn’t have any catastrophes…sure I dropped my pin box all over the floor once, and I melted a bit of faux leather onto my press cloth, but otherwise things chugged along according to my vision.
Is it bad to say that everything was a challenge? Okay, I exaggerate, but this past week was creatively and technically mind expanding. When I was trying to narrow down my fabric choices, I was sure that was the biggest challenge. Ha! As it went, the entire tote turned out to be a giant jigsaw puzzle. Because of the little tweaks I had made, there was a very precise order in how this little beauty was to be constructed. I did make a muslin first; but just of the basic shape, no zips or straps, or anything that was actually hard to do; you know, the steps that really would have benefited from a practice run. Nuh-uh, let’s leave all that for the good fabric. I went slowly, stepped away several times, and even had to sleep on it a few times… not the tote, the problem. All the while, the clock ticking towards our deadline. My fabric choices were not without their unique challenges. Faux leather likes to skip stitches. I don’t have a walking foot, or a teflon foot, but I have a lot of parchment paper. So, I put a layer of parchment paper between my presser foot and the leather, and it worked quite well….unless you prefer to actually see where you’re sewing. Ultrasuede can’t be pinned, faux leather can’t be ironed. Three colours of thread. Three different needles. I was changing needles from a denim needle {recommended for the faux leather}, to a regular needle, to a ball point needle with abandon. At one point, I was stitching through a layer of ultrasuede, two layers of faux leather, a layer of interlining, and the upholstery fabric. My sewing machine was groaning. BUT…I’m not complaining! Yes, my brain is toast as I type this; but I didn’t have any catastrophes…sure I dropped my pin box all over the floor once, and I melted a bit of faux leather onto my press cloth, but otherwise things chugged along according to my vision.
The Humour
The name of the bag: It’s A Cinch! Tote…For me, ironic, and a good little laugh.
In The End
I LOVE this tote bag. I love the colour, the fabrication, the style, the practicality. I love how it holds it’s shape. {All of the photos, with the exception of the two with me holding the tote, are of an empty bag.} I love the little details…I totally love my little straps with the brass coloured grommets, and the little brass spots too. We’re six contestants now, soon to be four; and all very talented sewists. I’m very hopeful to be moving on to the next round! Thank you for all your wonderful comments and emails on the previous rounds. I very much appreciate the encouragement.
Linking Up With:
Heather at Feather’s Flights for You Flew Sewing Link Up
Linking Up With:
Heather at Feather’s Flights for You Flew Sewing Link Up
60 Comments
WOWOWOWOW! Sue, you have got to win – this is just gorgeous! The details, the choice of materials, everything. When are you going to start a business doing this?
This is the third bag I've seen from this challenge and it is by far my favorite! I love the colors, the fabrics, the side pocket, the brass tone spots…oh my gosh, the details, it's amazing! I bet the next one would be a 'cinch'!
Oh my goodness, SUE! Can you hear me squealing? Your tote bag is utterly amazing! Everything you make is beautiful, and extremely well-made and fabulously finished, of course it is, but this… This project looks so much more complex and challenging, so many details and different materials and techniques to consider. And the finished article is just wonderful, all the different elements come together perfectly. I love it.
Sue for the WIN!
PS. Agree with Val – surely you could go into business? xxxxx
As someone who has made quite a few bags and LOVES bags–BRAVO!!!! The attention to detail is phenomenal, great job. I can so relate to the sensory overload when picking out the materials, I have suffered from that myself when making bags. On to the next round!
This comment has been removed by the author.
Wow Sue! This something else! – You chose the prettiest fabric and i love the ultrasuede –
How long does it take you to do this exquisite bag?
Ps – The cats are behaving now- but still keeping an eye
Hugs
Ariane xxx
Stylish, beautiful, practical, unbelievably well-made – and TURQUOISE!
Wow your talent and determination amaze me. I would have thrown the towel in.
I love your choices of fabric.
Great job!
bisous
Suzanne
I love your bag and I love your blouse.
Sue! You are amazing! 🙂
The bag is marvellous, Sue! I love the pattern and the colors.
Sabine xxx
WOW! Fabulous! Love it! I love that fabric choice as well. This is soooo professional looking, it boggles my mind. WEll DONE! And kudos on figuring out the swivel hook problem!
Shirl
I love the texture of your straps, the gold studs, the color of your zipper, and the fabrics and colors you chose. You really dove right back I to sewing! I wish I could pick back up so fast. This bag is a dream! I'm so impressed with the quality of your craftsmanship. Wonderful job, with the painstaking effort!
I can't believe you made that! I love every detail, from your choice of colours, patterns, and textures, to your design with buckles and piping. Amazing.
who needs Kate Spade etc when we have Sue!!!! Superb, love it.
Wayyyy beyond the call of duty with this stunning bag! Just beautiful!!!
WOW. You are SO going to win. VERY beautifully finished!
Absolutely fabulous! Gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous. I love your choice of buckles on the side vs. clips. It really dresses up the bag and pulls the upscale fabric choices together. That bag is something I'd be proud to carry on my shoulder!
Aw, thank you Val! I admire you and your initiative to have an Etsy site and sell your beautiful jewelry. I haven't yet been able to get to this step with my own creations…yet.
Thank you for such a big compliment Brenda. I haven't yet seen the other entries…it always makes me nervous…but I'm sure they are awesome. Your comment makes me feel more confident. Yeah! And yes, I agree that future bags will come easier.
Thanks Curtise! Squeals across the pond…love hearing them! 🙂 Thanks for noticing the complexity and details. I appreciate it very much.
Thanks Flo! That's right…you are a handbag lover too! Thanks for your kind words.
Good to hear the kitties are behaving. Please let me know if anything changes. I didn't calculate the amount of time for this bag…a lot of thinking that's for sure…a basic tote can be done in a few hours, but I always tend to want to add extra elements.
I KNOW! Start with favourite colour….the build on that. Thanks for your compliments.
Thanks Suzanne! There have been projects that I have had to put aside, but fortunately this one really went along quite well.
Thank you Josep! I know you have a good eye for detail, and appreciate your compliment.
Aw, thanks Erin!
Thanks Sabine. I hope you had a good holiday. I'll pop over soon and say Hi.
Thanks bunches Shirl! I'm glad you like it.
Thanks Amy! I enjoyed adding the faux leather to the webbing for a more quality strap.
Thank you so much Melanie! You have a great eye for detail, so I appreciate that you've noticed.
Ooooh, Kate Spade has awesome purses! Thanks for commenting.
Hi Michelle, thank you! Yup, I think we're all going beyond the call of duty….:)
Thanks Kristin! I appreciate the positive thoughts!
Aw, thank you so much for your sweet comment. I too think that the buckles dress up the tote versus clips. Glad you agree.
You are so terribly talented!
This tote is perfection! Absolutely beautiful Sue, I'm betting you win this contest. Great choices of colors and materials. You could make a business of selling bags like this.
blue hue wonderland
This is a very well thought out and designed bag. Your color schemes work wonderfully together. Please consider making these to order and selling on Etsy. Good luck in the contest, you should have no problem winning the grand prize.
Barbara @ http://www.allmylivesnow.com
Well done!! I love this bag, and it's my all-time favourite colour. Very nice!
Well done indeed! It's gorgeous! The pictures are superb — they showcase your talent and your attention to detail! It did my heart good to see you in your lovely hat, holding your tote! I want you to win, girl!!! XOXOXO PS — I agree that you could easily take orders and sell these!!
Your bag is amazing, all the details are perfect. Great job.
Sue, your talent and skill amaze me! Gorgeous bag and hoping for a win for you. You deserve it!
Love the addition of the hat! Your photos are perfection!
what talent you have!! AMAZING bag
A fabulous tote, it looks so pretty and well made! You can do it Sue!
I can't believe you have sewed yourself that wonderful bag! You are so talented!!!Extra good job . . .
that's an AMAZING tote. What talent!! =D
xo,
nancy
…and on to round 4. No surprise there. Cuffs, collars, and yokes probably don't even scare you. (just the thought of them makes me break out in a cold sweat). Have fun!
Fabulous hat to go with the Tote!
You are awesome. I don't know how a T1 could stick with all those details and not go running from the room screaming (that would be me!). You've really got it going on Girl! Hope you win the contest 🙂
Wow, LOVE this bag, Sue. Just love everything about it… the size, the colors, the fabric textures, the details such as rivets/studs/buckle, pretty colored zippers. The hat looks great with it too. You should have a shop and sell your beautiful creations.
Really like this bag. The shade of turquoise and the pattern are pretty, and the quality seems good. 🙂 Also, have to admit, that it's paired well with the overall look.
That's a beautiful bag! And thanks for visiting my blog, from another sewist. 🙂
WOW!!!!!!! The description of your process has me in awe. I am familiar with the brain scramble and the necessity of sometimes sleeping on it, but I'm not sure I could've figured this one out. The finished product is absolutely gorgeous. I am interested in making bags, but I think I may stick with simple “rustic” looks. 🙂 I definitely think you should win, by the way. XXOO
Such a pretty pattern and color!! Love it!
-Jamie
ChatterBlossom
You thought this bag out very well! It turned out beautifully I think it was worth the battle. Great job.
It looks so professional! I love the fabric you chose! Great job!
You made such an incredible bag! Looks like it is right out of a boutique! Love the pattern and it sure looks great with your sweet hat!
Rebecca
http://www.winnipegstyle.ca
Wow! This is a great job, it has nothing to envy to a bag of a million dollars! So complete and well done! You deserve to win!
You've created such a classic, beautiful work of art here. That paisley is simply stunning! I love the colour palette – it reminds me of the year (grade seven) when I discovered the joys of wearing brown and teal together, and proceeded to do so heavily for the next couple of years (enjoying it many times in the years to come after as well). Stellar work on this handbag, dear lady!
♥ Jessica
Gorgeous tote! I am in awe of how talented you are.