I had such a great time making more Redwood Totes that it was hard to stop. I may or may not have more cut out and in the works! I’ve had so much fun seeing the ones popping up in my feed as well. I’m glad you’re loving it!
As soon as I could get my hands on the Harriot (by Carolyn Friedlander) thick woven fabric, I ordered it right away (I ordered mine from Fabric Bubb as soon as I saw on their Instagram). I was so curious about the weight and texture. Plus the beautiful colors! They feel like a very subtle Spring palette which I love. Of course I snapped up all the colors because I couldn’t decide. And when I got my hands on them it made it even harder to decide what combination to use. The great thing about the Redwood Tote is that the pieces are relatively small so it’s a great scrap buster! I had these small pieces of waxed canvas that worked perfectly for the side panels. I thought they looked amazing with the Spice color of the thick woven. I paired it with (one of) my fabric chambray – Andover Denim Chambray.
You could also split up the fabrics in so many ways, it’s always fun to see what you make. So don’t feel confined to using just one fabric for the exterior!
Next week I’ll show you the Redwood I made for myself a few months ago. I’ve been using it non-stop and really love it. My husband said it’s the best bag I’ve ever made, but I think he says that every time I show him my newest one.
Pattern: Redwood Tote
Fabrics: Thick Woven in Spice from Harriot by Carolyn Friedlander, lining is Kitchen Wovens in Slate by Elizabeth Hartman, Denim Andover Chambray, scraps of waxed canvas from AL Frances TextilesHardware kits and zippers (12″ & 6″) in my shop! Leather, too:Ā (15″ for the short handles (3/4″-wide), 56″ for the crossbody strap (1″-wide))
Great bag, wonderful husband! ??
Best wishes!
Love the fabrics you’ve chosen…so my style!
I have a kinda silly question. (i guess I know the answer is “it’s up to you!”) The direction of your pocket zipper (and the bag opening), opening from left to right, seems unusual. I have seen most bags open from left to right. I love your bags! It’s just something I noticed and wondered about:)
Hey Teddi, yes, it of course is up to the sewist (can be done either way). I just like opening it that way when I’m wearing it, it’s easier for me to open/close (I’m right handed). Everyone’s different though! š Do what works best for you.
Your work is beautiful.
Hi Anna! I just finished my Redwood tote. It turned out great – I love the pattern and appreciate all the tips you have included in the instructions. Your patterns are the best! š
Oh I love that Jo! So glad you enjoyed it!
Are your bags available for sale?
Help. Iām just getting started on the sewing… cannot find in the instructions what to do and when with the Zipper End Tab piece (1.5ā x 2ā). Thanks!!