I spent all of my sewing time making quilts in March for National Quilt Month–I worked on four different quilts and the Hope Tattoo wall hanging. I finished the wall hanging, but the quilts are all in different stages of completion.

I hate leaving them unfinished but I have to move on to other projects that have upcoming due dates!

First project was a new shopping tote. Andrew, my son-in-law, left a pair of jeans here a few years ago. They’ve just been taking up space in the guest room dresser and I’ve been on a kick to clear out all extra STUFF! I asked if I could slice them and dice them. Once I got the approval, I whipped up this shopping tote. Andrew and my daughter Jes were coming for a visit and I wanted to have it done to send it off with them. Andrew picked out the interior fabric which is very bright and cheerful.

I used my tutorial for the Basic Shopping Tote. You can see the original post here, or just download the PDF for the Basic Shopping Tote Instructions here.

I wanted to use the jean’s inset pocket and zipper which made it impossible to put the straps on the outside. So I put the straps on the inside. Just followed the same instructions and added the straps to the interior. Same way, 1 1/2″ from each side.

I put a little creature in all the totes I make. Just a cute bonus! I call them Pocket Peeps. I’m sure someone has that name trademarked but does it matter since I don’t sell them?

The tote pattern is free and relatively easy. If you live locally, I have a sewing workshop at the Old Homosassa Learning Center and I have taught many women to make these totes. They are the same size as the reusable bags you can buy in the grocery store. But these can be washed (hand dry) and are very sturdy.

Next up, a birthday gift for a dear friend.