The Maker’s Tote by Noodlehead has been in my “need to make” queue for quite a while, and I finally chose some fabrics and tackled it. I’m quite pleased with the results. This is the larger size, which is perfect for sewing projects and tools. I want to make another one in the smaller size for a craft bag for my kids.
One of the things I love about this project is the variety of skills used in the making of it. Each one gives you a different organizational or structural benefit and each one is walked through carefully in the instructions, which makes it easy to achieve good results.
The zipper closure on the top was a different zipper installation than I’ve done before, and I love the beautiful finish of it. The patch pocket on front is an easy way to add extra storage and spruce up the front of the bag. I love how professional the handles look and yet how easy they are to make. One of the most difficult parts of the process was the bias binding finish, which requires a fair amount of hand stitching, but the result is well worth the effort.
The gusset installation was a bit tricky as well because of the curves, but it is what gives the bag it’s distinctive shape and because of the bias binding finish much is forgiven in the sewing of it.
The inside of the bag is nice and roomy and has lots of pockets, which is a must for any project bag. Pictured here are the three slip pockets that line one side of the inside.
And on the other side of the bag are two large gusseted pockets. Perfect for those larger items that still need their own pocket. They look fancy, but were really quite easy to make.
And last, but not least, my favorite type of pocket, the zippered pocket. This type of pocket looks so impressive, but is really not difficult to insert once you know the technique.
The skills you learn in this bag could easily be transferred to other bag projects. Imagine our basic tote bag with multiple pockets! Join us for the Maker’s Tote Bag class in March, and learn these techniques as well. I’d love to make my second one with you!
