Decorative Tote Bag

I made this tote bag to use the decorative stitches on my new sewing machine. I had so much fun doing it. First of all I found the pattern on the Singer site. I added a pencil pocket, a smaller pocket that I could put chalk in for teaching and a loop that I can hang my keys on. It is just the right size for carrying a few books in or craft projects. I found the flower on sale cheap and it came

 Here are the fabric pieces all cut out as directed on the Singer site. I will try to locate that link again for you.

 I loved using the pin striped fabric because I could just make the decorative stitches in between them.  Then I just cut them into squares as directed and sewed them together flipping the direction of the stitching in every other one.  then I sewed acros the corners in the bottom of the bag so it would sit properly and fit the books it would hold.  I lined it with the same striped denim which has a little stretch to it.  It was only about $2.00 a yard at Walmart.  The contrasting fabric was more expensive at a craft store but it was only a little bit and was exactly what I wanted.

 I made a pocket and some loops on the inside lining so it would hold a lot of things.  I ended up sewing a line down the stripes to hold a set of colored pens.  It is my favorite bag ever!  I use it every day as it hold some of my favorite books and a notebook that I write in everyday.