Friday, September 5, 2008

Garden Tote: Lotta Jansdotter Pattern


I wish I could find a sew-along group for Lotta Jansdotter patterns. I love them. I have honestly enjoyed the finished product of every project I've tried from her book, Simple Sewing.

This project was the garden tote, I did make a few modifications to suit my needs. This is a great bag -- I'm already using mine on a daily basis -- to use outside the garden. It's perfect as a diaper bag because of all the outside pockets. Give it a try! Be warned, it's a big bag.

For materials I used duck cloth, a home dec fabric, and a little lightweight canvas (lining). I also used some twill tape, but It's aesthetic more than anything.

The pattern is easy to follow. The biggest change I made was that I added interior pockets (I always do) and I modified one of the outer, pleated pockets. The pattern calls for three pockets on each side. On one side I opted for two larger pockets, rather than three. I'm pleased with the effect (visually), but I'm very happy with the functionality.

I used the outer pockets to carry everything from water bottles to sippy cups to sunscreen. I love them because if something leaks it's not going to wreck everything inside the bag. Fabulous! I made this tote from under $3. All the fabrics were remnants, and all of pieces were scraps from when I had used the remnants on previous projects. All in all, very cheap with big impact.

I did not use duck cloth in the base piece. And I should have used it for at least one of the layers. It would give the tote better body.

PS -- Tote is featured on my flickr page: http://www.flickr.com/photos/23380408@N03/2831635019/in/photostream/

1 comment:

lera said...

Look at all the great things you've been making! I'm happy that you are enjoying your serger. I think it's a great idea to start using it right away. I used mine the same day I got it! I just couldn't wait any longer.