Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Scripture Tote Pattern

Well, actually, there is no pattern. But here are some rough instructions on how I made it. Feel free to ask questions. And I'd love to see pictures if anyone makes one!

1. Cut out the pieces. The front, bottom (spine), and back are all one piece so measure your scriptures and add 1/2 inch to each side for a 1/4 inch seam allowance. Next measure the right, top, and left (the sides with the pages showing). Add 1/2 inch to your measurements. Note: I cut mine extra wide because I wanted to make it so none of the butterflies were cut off so after I put in the zipper I trimmed the sides to make it the right width.

2. Tie the bow. This is the hardest part. After you have your perfect bow, give it a few stitches in the back so it won't untie. Sew to big rectangle.

3. Cut the handle. Make one long one and then cut it in half after it's sewn. I cut mine 2 3/4 inches wide and I don't know how long. You'll be able to tell how long you should make it. Sew it right sides together with a 3/8 inch seam allowance. This gives it a little more weight. Turn right side out. Press with seam in the middle of the back. Topstitch on the right and left about 1/4 inch from the sides. Cut in half. Baste to big rectangle. Again, use your own judgment on where to put it. Just make sure each handle is in the same place.

4. Zipper. Cut long rectangle from step one in half lengthwise. Sew zipper on, press and topstitch.

5. Sew zipper piece to big piece. I found it was easier to do this without pinning it first. Otherwise those corners will give you heck. Just start at a corner, line that side up, and sew to the next corner. Pivot and repeat.

Sorry for the sketchy instructions. I really am not a good seamstress but I'd be happy to answer questions.

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