Sewing

Trail Totes Times Two

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Yep, two Trail Totes! I just had to finish up one of the test versions I made of my new Trail Tote pattern for Robert Kaufman (the pattern is free by the way, so go ahead and download it). And then I had to make an almost exact replica of the original one I made as the other got shipped off to it’s new home.  It felt kind of weird sewing the same exact bag, but I couldn’t wait to start using it. I’ve been having shoulder/neck pain recently and having a cross body style bag should help that a bit – at least I hope.

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I adore Carolyn’s new collection: Doe. I bet you could kind of guess that already. I kind of want to wrap my entire house in it, but I might have to restrain myself a bit. Sorry not sorry.

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I have been doing some serious thinking about my own fabric stash and how it’s evolved over the years. I keep destashing and thinking that will help. Somehow the fabric still oozes from the shelves. I haven’t been ordering much fabric either, although that’ll fly out the window once some of my favorite new collections start shipping to shops. Anyway, sorry for that tangent. Not complaining.trailtotes5

I love piping (See my tutorial here, it’s easy to make and use! I promise.) and this tote is just the most fun way to show it off. It gives the bag a nice dimension and added interest. Pair that with some metal and a zipper and you had me at hello.

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Pattern: Trail Tote Pattern (by me for Robert Kaufman Fabrics)
Fabrics: Doe by Carolyn Friedlander and a canvas from Miss Matatabi
Hardware: Sewing Supplies on etsy (a great shop based in WI for any locals reading)
Zipper: Zipit on Etsy (another WI shop! as always)

24 thoughts on “Trail Totes Times Two

  1. Verena says:

    Love both versions of your Trail Tote! So far I have not yet had the “courage” to make a bag, but I definitely have to try it one day, seeing all the great bag patterns!

  2. Heather says:

    Love this bag!!! 🙂 can’t wait to make one for myself!!! I just need some time first.

  3. Jill Potkalesky says:

    I really love this pattern you’ve created. I can’t wait to try it – hopefully I can make time this weekend! 🙂

  4. Hayley says:

    I am half way through making a trail tote and am surprisingly pleased by how simple it is. I was a bit nervous about that zip pocket and piping but it has come out a treat!

  5. elsabean says:

    Such a lovely bag and just the kind I like ~ over the body style. You make the best purse patterns!

  6. liz n. says:

    Oh, what a great design! I’m going to have to order the pattern!

  7. Laurie BB says:

    Anna –
    I’ve loved making two trail totes. It is an easy straightforward pattern and a perfect bag for a girl on the go! I wonder where you buy your hardware for the bag? Our local fabric stores have single overpriced sliders and o rings and stuff. Is there an online source you use? Thanks so much. As always, so grateful for your contributions to the sewing and quilting community. You inspire!
    LaurieBB

  8. Laurie BB says:

    OK, Anna, thanks. I see it Duh. Thanks for the answer! I posted the first of my two trail totes on your Facebook page by the way.

  9. Brandy F. says:

    Ooh! I love the fabric choices! This is definitely on my to make list!

  10. danielle says:

    Love! Love love! It is my ideal bag and i will be making one as soon as i finish moving!

  11. mumziepooh says:

    I think I am gonna bust out some of my new and not yet released Cotton and Steel and make one today!!!

  12. nicolemaroon says:

    I definitely need a new bag. 😉

  13. LOVE LOVE LOVE this bag, must make it asap! We have that canvas in stock and I was just thinking how great it would be for a bag!

  14. Jane says:

    Oh this bag is so lovely! And…now another noodlehead pattern i want to make!

  15. Kim says:

    I love them and the piping is really cool.

  16. Carolyn says:

    Both are so beautiful! You are amazing!!

  17. Erica says:

    You are a rockstar. Love your bags!

  18. Amy says:

    Have made both sizes. Lovely bag. I chose to use webbing for the handle and attach it on the outside. Love your straightforward patterns and tutorials. You taught me how to sew!

  19. Jean says:

    One thing I do when I need to destash is find a church or senior center that makes quilts to give away to the Linus project or to Highway patrol to keep in their vehicles when they have to help out with accidents involving children.

  20. HilaryT says:

    I made the bag tonight, I thought it would take all weekend, because there were a few things I had not done before (piping!) but the instructions were so clear and easy to follow it took less than 3 hours (wrangling children during this time also) and I love, love, love the bag! I made the large, it is the perfect size bag for me. Can’t wait to use it ( and show it off) starting tomorrow!

  21. Gaelle LG says:

    Hello there 🙂 I am French and not really familiar with yards and inches, but I’ve asked friends to help me convert these to cm and meters ?
    I love your bags and i think I’ll try to sew a big one (although I’m a bit nervous about the piping & the zipper…)
    Just a question : is the width of all the fabrics you use always 42″ here ?
    Thanks !
    Gaelle

    1. Anna Graham says:

      Hi Gaelle, yes, standard width is 42″. 🙂 Have fun!!!

  22. Beth Johns. says:

    Have just finished making this bag and it is most excellent. The pattern is easy to follow so don’t hesitate. Give it a try.

  23. Rachel says:

    I love this bag. Have you ever considered or would you make a pattern for a size in between the large and small bags? I’ve made both and would love one slightly smaller than the large but bigger than the small.

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