Remember this 15 minutes of play when I made this large crazy patch block? I had the idea of using it as the front of a big tote.
I am typically a small purse carrying kind of gal, yet I am always wishing I could find a purse big enough to carry my book or my sketch pad. My sister asked me if I could come up with a larger purse design. And many, many other women out there prefer to carry large purses. So I decided to do some sketching again. It’s always fun to get out the big paper and my curved rulers!
I am so proud of how this new design turned out! I am calling it the Artist Tote because it made me feel like an artist while I was creating it. And I feel like an artist carrying it.
(9″ x 12″ sketchbook fits inside vertically or horizontally)
Overall, it measures 12-15 inches wide by 10 inches tall (note, the patchwork block is 12 inches wide but the bag can be stretched to 15 inches with the 3-inch wide gusset), big enough to fit all your regular purse stuff, a book and a sketchpad. It has my signature large pockets inside, one with a zipper closure, and two pockets that are open for slipping in your cell phone or music player.
I used blue suiting fabric for the back and the handle to make it a more durable and professional looking bag.
I added more details, including zig-zag stitching at each seam on the front, a few random chains of color gems sprinkled on the front, and zig-zag stitching on the back, bottom and handle, just for good measure.
It’s not listed in my shop yet, but it will be soon. This is one of several new designs I have been busy making for a new collection to be showcased in my shop very soon. Can’t wait to show you more!
Terri's Notebook 
Love Love Love that purse/ bag. You are great at this bag making and just keep getting better. Keep them comming I love seeing your creations.
I agree with Kim…they just keep getting better! It’s a beauty!
LOVE IT!! Zoomed right in for a look at the sparkly trim which caught my eye immediately (I’m such a glitter babe lol). You sure do just keep producing wonderful bags (and how cool does your new patchwork trails label look I inside).
Well done Terri – sure this will fly out of your shop :0)
Luv Shell x
OOOH I love this bag girl! I love the lines on the back:)
Love it Terri!! It turned out beautifully.
Well done Terri,just love what you did with the block to turn it into a wonderful useful bag. You Go Girl!!!
Happy days.
Bev.xoxo
Love your new purse Terri, it’s so cute and a perfect design.
I love it! Being able to fit your sketchbook both directions is really nice. Great idea for using up orphan blocks!
I LOVE this bag – what a great way to showcase your crazy patchwork. Functional and stylish – love the embellishments.
I love it! I’ve got a store bought (cringe) tote for carrying my sketchbook in, but something like this would be a lot more appealing..and inspirational. 🙂
Oh, that turned out great!! I love the way those colors work together, & the size is perfect for carrying books around.
I love it 🙂
~ Meagan
It’s really fun!
p.s. I love seeing your color palettes. The sunrise one really took me by surprise. Lovely!
Ohmigoodness I love it! And you’re totally right-as an owner of one of your fantastic bags-the inner pockets REALLY help out!
Awesome bags! I love the blue with all the stitching across it… it reminds me of Japanese designs…. they have that blue color in a lot of their fabrics. Very pretty!!