I was about to write that this is the first tote bag I've sewn, but actually it's my second.
The first one I created from a pattern online and this one I took a class. Even though I'm coming along with my sewing, I still really appreciate having someone step me through a pattern. Officially on my sixth class, I'm getting much quicker with my machine and reading and cutting out patterns is becoming way more familiar. Always a little intimidated by sewing, it's nice to feel progress happening!
Each pattern is so different, have you noticed? So much of a pattern feeling easy to follow has to do with someone's ability, to not just sew but to instruct someone how to sew. Especially for students like me who prefer a visual/listening learning experience. I'm not much of an instruction reader, never have been. I prefer to jump in and figure it out as I go. However, this method does not work so well with most sewing especially apparel sewing :)
I take almost all of my classes at Sew LA, who just opened up an awesome new space in Atwater Village. {if you go, stop by Proof Bakery across the street - except on Monday because sadly they are closed - and you will not be disappointed. Oh and also Kaldi Coffee & Tea right next door has my favorite 'Pirate's Chai' hot or iced} In fact I took some private lessons from Shaerie way before I ever knew I would be designing my own fabric. Shaerie is the owner of Sew LA as well as one of the teachers. Years of experience in sewing {I think she started as a teenager} she's great at explaining everything clearly, and thoroughly. She's also a stickler for high quality, while working smarter not harder. For this reason, her first pattern is a winner. Clear and easy to follow.
She's working on developing a line of her own patterns and the tote bag is the first to be released. Right now you can only get it here at Sew L.A. So if you're wanting a functional, quality tote bag that's easy and fun to sew, this is your pattern.
Loving my tote bag. As you can imagine it's my new favorite which means I'm taking it everywhere. I used two of the designs from my newest line {shipping any day now} 'The Red Thread'. All in greys, bloom flowers on the outside and bunnies and mushrooms on the inside.
