I found this pattern months ago while surfing the internet and fell in love with it. It's been on my Pinterest "to-do" list for quite some time. I FINALLY got around to making it!
You can find the free PDF pattern here: Pleated Tote
Here is my version:
I made my own handles out of fabric rather than buy pre-made ones, since I couldn't find anything I liked in the stores. I embellished the straps with little matching fabric flowers and buttons. You can't see it, but I lined the tote with black fabric to match the handles. I also added a snap closure because I like my bags to close at the top.
Once again, I bought the fabric at JoAnn's.
I was an easy pattern to follow and creates a good-sized tote. I had some extra fabric, so I made a small bag and key fob to go along with it.
Happy Sewing!!
As I was perusing the internet and Pinterest, I came across a new product - new to me, anyway. It's called Fuse and Gather Tape.
This tape lets you press, pull, stitch, and you have gathers. All you do is press the Fuse 'n Gather on the wrong side of the fabric, tie threads at one end, pull the blue threads at the opposite end to gather to length needed. Perfect for creating easy gathers and ruffles for all types of crafts.
You can get a 5/8" 15-yd. package for $12.24 at Create for Less.com - just click on the CreateForLess link to the right under Sponsors.
I am definitely going to try this out. It looks like a great time-saver and Sew Simple!
