You know I’m a big advocate for making usable things! My Pepin Tote in Riverbend is probably one of my favorite bags to use.

Before this pattern, I had made a tote that I used all the time on road trips and whenever I needed to bring along something bigger than would fit in my daily bag that I carry. So that tote evolved into the Pepin Tote pattern! And yes, if you’re wondering, it’s named after Lake Pepin (my Dad grew up near there).

Pattern Matching

I’m not super into pattern matching (I try not to make things complicated), but when the scale of the print is large like this one, I felt like it was a prime opportunity to practice my skills! It’s not perfect, but I think it turned out just right.

Directional Print

Oh, and I almost forgot that with this print (since it’s a one-way directional print), that I had to put a seam in the bottom of the tote. Not too difficult if you find yourself in a similar situation with whatever fabric design you use.

You’ll divide the Main Exterior in half and then add your seam allowance to that number. I almost always use a half inch, so just add that to your divided measurement for the exterior piece. And then you’ll sew that bottom seam making sure the direction of the design is facing away from the seam. Hope that helps if you decide to try it, too!

Here are a few other Pepin Totes I’ve made:

• Yellow Pepin Tote for fall
• My Pepin Tote
• Floral Pepin Tote
• Rust Pepin Tote

Sew-along with Video!

Don’t forget – there’s a full video sew-along available! Click the link below:

• Pepin Tote Complete Sew-Along

Project Details:

• Pattern: Pepin Tote pattern (available in PDF and paper), this pattern is made up of just a few rectangles! So you can cut directly with your rotary cutter/ruler (save time and paper!) or make templates if you wish.
• Fabrics: Riverbend Big Sur Canvas for the exterior (this one is called Ocean, but the color is more of a dark blue/green) and Riverbend Essex for the lining
• Handles: Leather handles (you’ll want the 28″ set) OR the (1″-wide) cotton webbing in lots of great colors! I used the Rustic leather on this one!
• Recessed zipper (optional!): 20″ zips available in my shop
• Optional magnetic closures available in my shop, and here’s my full tutorial on how to install them!

*Riverbend has been arriving in shops! Yay! Be sure to check with your favorite shop! Or try an online search for “Anna Graham Riverbend” or “Riverbend Robert Kaufman” and check out the #RiverBendFabric hashtag on Instagram. Can’t wait to see what you make!!!!