Quilted Totes

[LizzieMac]

All you ladies making these bags are just so clever. I have only made a very simple one. But I would like to try something more fancier. Where do you get your patterns? Also I want to help my 9 year old granddaughter make a tote bag. Does any one know of a simple pattern that she could cope with?

[bakermom]

do a search for "simple tote bag" and you will get a lot of links. Not trying to wimp out on you-I don't have an actual go-to pattern, I just wing it. If you can find a pattern you like you can tweek it however you want. Some links will have very detailed instructions maybe even with pictures. Others are very vague.
some will be simple enough for your GD, like two flat pieces and handles, won't even box the corners. If you have an Extension office(4H) near you, see if you can get one of the beginner sewing project books. They have basic sewing inst. designed to teach young sewers.

[Vonnie]

Craftsy.com has some free bag classes. Also, the Quilt as you go patchwork bags is a really good class. Easy to understand and Tara teaches a really neat way to do zippers. I made two bags and gave one to my beautician. My DH reduced the pattern size by 25 percent since the tote pattern is large. I increased the handle length by 2 inches to make up for the pattern size being reduced. Turned out great.

I used extra/leftover jelly roll strips to make my bag and just used pretty embroidery thread and my machines decorative stitches to embellish it. I used fusible fleece which can be found at Joann's or Walmart.

[Jean Sewing Machine]

I think Jenny's original charm square bag would be a great place to start with your granddaughter. Also, the tote bag called Improv tote bag would be a good one if you want a little bit bigger bag.

[Deegles]

I have been to connectingthreads.com and they have a wonderful freebie section.

here is the link Free Quilting Patterns and Sewing Patterns from ConnectingThreads.com

I see several totes. I hope this helps

[GrammaBabs]

I was just looking around on YouTube and found this....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vvYgHRFNFYQ

Interesting way she boxed her bottom... I ordered from Amazon , mostly to support a young SAH Mom,,, but it looks like there might be some interesting and simple things to make...))

[Pandabear]

I use Lazy Girl Designs and Pink Sand Beach Designs as my go to bag designers. Both have clear directions with pictures.

I do agree with the others in looking at Jenny's charm totes for a beginner. The bags are so cute and fun.

[LizzieMac]

Thanks for all those answers. I will follow them all up.

[Snip Snip]

My 9 year old grand daughter is coming on Thursday to spend some time with me. I know she likes purses/totes, so I think I will plan on helping her make one. I made several using Jenny's charm pack directions. I'm pretty sure I can convert that to using some jelly rolls in her favorite color.