Today I’m sharing the Poolside Tote I made using Quarry Trail (my new fabric collection). I’m so excited because the collection is showing up at shops now! I’ve seen so many posting about it on social media, so that’s super fun to see. It never really feels real until a fabric collection is available for you guys!
This abstract print from Quarry Trail, lovingly called ‘Trail Marker’ seemed like the perfect match for my pattern, the Poolside Tote. I have loved using mine since the pattern was released a few years ago. It’s so versatile and big!
I use mine for an overnight bag or if we need to haul random things to a soccer tournament day. And of course to the swimming pool! It’s perfect for hauling towels and all things swimming. I am so looking forward to when we can go to the pool again!
To quilt, or not to quilt?
Looking back it would have been fun to quilt the fabric to the foam interfacing (or do a batting/canvas layer with quilting). I had made a black + white gingham sample years ago that used that method and it’s such a nice bag. Just the foam and fabric is nice though, too. It’s a bit of a simpler look.
The zippered front pocket is a must-have in my opinion. The pattern also includes a variation for a slip pocket (here’s a sample with a slip pocket), but either are fun and useful.
- Pattern: Poolside Tote
- Fabric: Trail Marker print from Quarry Trail, lining is Moons, accent is Robert Kaufman Interweave Chambray
- 10″ zipper available in my shop
The poolside tote was the first bag pattern I made from you and it remains a favourite. I’ve made 3 versions to date. Great, clear instructions and the end result is always lovely.
The poolside tote looks fabulous! Do you pre-wash the fabric when you make a bag? I recently bought the Quarry Trail on Essex
fabric in two colors and was wondering whether it will shrink when fusible interfacing is applied?
Can these bags be washed if they become dirty?
Thanks Nanette! I don’t pre-wash usually. I haven’t found the Essex to shrink at all when applying interfacing. And yes, here’s a post I did about how I wash mine: https://blog.noodle-head.com/2014/04/caring-for-your-handmade-bag.html