Patchwork Tote Bag Sewing Pattern With Braided Handles

For a long time I wanted to create a large patchwork tote bag sewing pattern that felt practical, soft and handmade but also a little different from the classic quilted tote bags we see everywhere.

This particular patchwork tote bag was heavily inspired by the nostalgic world of Holly Hobbie and Sarah Kay illustrations that I loved so much growing up.

I have always been drawn to the softness of vintage patchwork dresses, prairie fabrics, handmade quilts and the cosy handmade feeling found in 1970s cottage style illustrations. 

While designing this bag, I kept thinking about those warm nostalgic colours, floral prints, gingham fabrics and braided details that make me feel safe and comforting.

Plus it's a lovely way to upcycle old cotton scraps and remnants or old floral sheets and bedding. 

But the detail that truly changed this design for me was the braided handles.

I originally had another patchwork tote bag pattern in my old etsy shop, but I decided to redesign it completely and replace the classic straps with thick braided handles made from fabric strips.

The braided handles give the bag a softer handmade character while also making it comfortable and sturdy enough for everyday use.

I instantly fell in love with how this bag now looks and feels and I truly hope you get the same feeling too while making it and wearing it!!

I think these braided handles are slowly becoming one of my favourite signature details and I already have more ideas planned using them, especially for future beach bags and upcycled sewing projects.

So if you are looking for your next sewing project, this large tote bag sewing pattern is available as a digital download in my Etsy shop and is perfect for anyone wanting to create a spacious everyday shopper bag.

I made one for myself and I constantly get compliments and questions about it. It fits all my everyday shopping from the local market, fabric shopping trips and sewing supplies perfectly.

It also works beautifully as a beach bag, weekender bag or even a roomy maternity tote..

The PDF sewing tutorial  is written with detailed step-by-step instructions with photographs to guide you through the entire sewing process, including all the fabric measurements and materials you will need to make the bag.

No templates are included, as I personally prefer working with measurements in my sewing tutorials. This also gives more experienced sewists the freedom to easily customize the size and proportions to fit their own style.

Even if you are fairly new to bag making, this project is still very approachable for advanced beginners and intermediate sewists. The tutorial includes detailed photographs, written instructions and video support to help guide you through each step of the process.

So if you are a romantic girl like me, this bag might be the perfect sewing project for you 🤍

And if sewing is not your thing, I also have this bag available as a finished handmade piece in my Etsy shop in this colourway, with more fabric combinations coming soon.

XXX

Tatiana❤️