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| 241 Tote ~ A Pattern by Noodlehead |
Check it out, I made a bag! I know, I even surprised myself. The pattern is 241 Tote by Noodlehead (Anna Graham); I have read so many great reviews of this pattern, and have seen so many versions of this bag all over the internet that I decided I really need to try my hand at this. I can do this.
THE FABRICS:
I must admit that I have had the pattern for almost two years so it has taken some time to gather the supplies and more so the courage to try something outside of my comfort zone, but once started I was hooked. The pattern is well written and I was able to download, print and follow the instruction without difficulty. I had a few light bulb moments (including the need to tape pattern pieces together before cutting fabric - too obvious for words, right?) and learned more about using interfacing (like the need to ensure the sticky/shiny side is facing the right way or you'll end it with it pressed onto your ironing cloth. Oops!)
Scallops in Yellow ~ Stamped by Ellen Luckett Baker
The Skinny laMinx version of the bag was my first attempt and although the pattern includes several different versions, including different levels of difficulty and detail, I went for all of it - outer pockets, inside pocket, zip, and magnetic snap.
What I did differently for my second (Arcadia) version of my 241 Tote:
- made the should strap 4 inches longer (personal preference only).
- used a slightly heavier (heavier than Pellon SF101) interfacing for a sturdier bag.
- paid more attention to the top stitching detail for a nicer finish.
- spent more time clipping the curved seams for a smoother seam finish.
I LOVED making these totes and I learned so much in the process. Truly they didn't take long to whip up - the first tote took a (long) evening of sewing. Once you've made one the second is quicker still. And I think they make for great handmade gift giving. My 241 totes are already being loved ...
Rita
RELEVANT LINKS:
241 Tote Pattern by Noodlehead
absolutely adorable, rita!
ReplyDeleteOh my - love the 2nd one. Great fabrics. I'm on my way to get that pattern! I especially need a new bag as my summer shoulder bag was stolen from the car last week.
ReplyDeleteWhat interfacing did you use for the Arcadia 241? I will be making one soon, and don't think the SF101 will be enough.
ReplyDeletelove it!! it's beautiful! ;p
ReplyDeleteThey both look great.
ReplyDeleteWow! Those bags look great! :-)
ReplyDeleteI love, love, love this bag pattern. I made one and gave it to my aunt who uses it all the time. I need to make one for my Mum and another one for me!!
ReplyDeleteYou made a great job of this bag it looks really great and versatile.
ReplyDeleteWow what great bags. Love the fabric, I've made a couple of Anna's bags her patterns are really good and clear to follow.
ReplyDeletePerfect bag shape! and the fabrics for the The Skinny laMinx super! x
ReplyDeleteThey are all stunning :) I have been looking at this pattern for ages, probably as long as you have had the pattern! You've given me the urge to make one finally!
ReplyDeleteGirlie, you really have a hand for picking fabrics! The combinations are awesome, the second one is my favorite too!
ReplyDeleteLOVE IT! You did a great job!
ReplyDeleteThat's the bag I am using right now. I do agree with you and my next attempt will have a longer strap so I can wear it across my chest and I'll do the zippy pocket.
ReplyDeleteI hand stitched the top stitching as my machine is being finicky and I love the look!:)
I love this. I would make up all the Noodlehead designs if I had the time......
ReplyDeleteWell, your fantastic fabric selections continue onto bags also. These are beautiful. I've also had this pattern for a while and have not made it as of it. I have to say I saw one once and didn't like how slouchy it was. Can I ask what type of interfacing you used?
ReplyDeleteThey are all beautiful!
ReplyDeleteLove all your different versions too!
ReplyDeleteI like your fabric choices, and the big side pockets on the bag too! xx
ReplyDeleteBoth versions look great! I've had this pattern a few years too but haven't worked up the courage to the it yet.
ReplyDeleteSo pretty! I've been debating getting the pattern and trying to make one for myself!
ReplyDeleteYou amaze me every time Rita! I'm so glad you enjoyed making them! Your fabric choices are so super perfect. :)
ReplyDeleteI, too, would like to know what kind of heavier interfacing you used for your second bag. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteHi Paula - thank you for stopping by!
DeleteThe interfacing I used was from my local fabric store - it didn't have a brand name but it felt heaver (thicker) than the Pellon SF101. Pellon products will soon (from October 2014) be available in Australia from Spotlight Stores under the Legacy brand name! We will then be able to readily purchase interfacing products as specified in (US) patterns and give us more product choice and variety.
Rita