*This is the classic paper pattern version; for the print-at-home version in A4 size paper click here; for the print-at-home version in letter size paper click here.*
The ultimate Mom-with-attitude-Bag, this tasseled beauty is chic, beautiful and practical too. This fabulous tote is designed for medium-heavy fabrics like denim, canvas, real or faux suede and leather, a firm cotton jacquard or brocade, or classic home-dec fabrics.
Lined, soft and roomy tote has an open top, cut-on handles with topstitched trim plus optional purse feet; the interior has- of course!- one large zippered pocket, plus a cell phone & small open pocket.
Optional tassel trim adds a luxe finish.
This chic tote is perfect for all day, everyday wear...use it for work, on the weekends, out with the little ones or on vacation, shopping, lunching or any time you need an elegant but roomy bag. Try your tote with your favorite vintage jeans and a crisp white shirt, team it with a tailored office look, or wear it with a simple shift dress for a great outfit.
Shopping list
For the tote, you’ll need around 1 yard/ 92cm of fabric; you’ll also need the same amount in a firm fusible interfacing, plus 3/4 yard/ 69cm of lining.
To complete the bag, you’ll need a magnetic closure, 1 x 10”/25cm zipper to match your lining, plus a piece of plastic tapestry mesh (or similar) measuring 5.5” or 14 cm x 17” or 43 cm to stabilize the bag base.
Enjoyed making this purse. I watched the videos first, to get a feel for it. Very roomy. Nicely designed. Will definitely make this pattern again.
See a pic of my tote: http://www.craftsy.com/project/view/orange-the-happiest-color/380480
waiting for the perfect material
Posted by Jodi Day on 9th Mar 2015
can't wait to make it!
loved the video!!!
Unique pattern
Posted by Unknown on 21st Jun 2014
My first attempt at this with leather. I found instructions for the lining construction somewhat confusing but figured it out.
Turned out great. Be sure and check completed measurements this bag is larger than illustrated in the picture, but one that will accommodate all your necessities.
Just what I was looking for.
Posted by Renee on 3rd Apr 2014
I’m a late in life self-taught sewer. I just wanted to make simple things like pillows and curtains. That quickly changed to watching YouTube and making make-up bags etc. Then I started searching the web for handbag patterns that look more high end and not homemade. Not that there is anything wrong with that. Then I found HotPatterns. I bought four of your handbag patterns. I just finished my second Mommie Dearest bag, because the first one I sewed the wrong edges to the side and bottom. UGH – Lesson learned.
This is a birthday gift from my daughter who is a tech designer at Jbrand jeans. I absolutely love how it turned out. Instructions are good but unfortunately I’m not very experienced so I really relied on the tutorials. Thanks so much for doing them, I’m touting your website to anyone I know that loves to sew. I plan on writing more reviews as I master each of the 4 patterns I bought.
Again this is a large classy tote; that will give anyone a second look and ask where you bought that bag!
PS – thanks for all the tidbit on where you found your faux leathers, facing etc.
Stylish and practical bag for moms on the go!
Posted by Michelle on 10th Jun 2013
I've finally found the perfect bag for toting around the "kid stuff" (diapers, wipes, sippy cup, snacks, etc) for my one-year-old while still having easy access for "my stuff" (cell phone, glasses, wallet, etc.). Full disclosure: I *hated* our diaper bag (my husband picked it out because it was gender-neutral and he was hoping it could pass for a messenger bag for him).
Sewing: The bag is straightforward and fun to sew. It's well-drafted in that everything lines up and fits together nicely. The one tricky part (for me) was doing the handles because I had never made a bag with cut-on handles before. (Note: when you attach the lining, do not sew the seam in the O/U shape on the body/facing--I had to pull out the seam ripper for that one.) I made the bag as instructed (using a corduroy for the body and quilting cotton for the lining). The line drawing is an accurate depiction of the final bag.
I gave my new bag a serious "test drive" on a family outing yesterday, leaving the diaper bag at home. I liked my new "mommy tote" sooooo much better--it's the perfect size (roomy but not too big) and the open top with the magnetic closure makes it easy to access the things that you need without worrying about them spilling out all over. This is the second HotPatterns bag that I've made and the second time I've been very happy with the results. I'd love to make this again in a faux leather if I can find one that I like.