French Market Tote Bag Tutorial + Dots and Posies Fabric

 Sometimes it's fun to switch things up! I've been doing a lot of quilts lately but last week I spent an afternoon making a new tote bag for myself with some lovely new fabrics.

I first designed this French Market Tote bag back in 2017 (and shared the tutorial here).

I've always loved choosing a fun liner print for my tote bags but usually the liner is never really even seen! So I designed this bag specifically so that the bag liner could be seen...and appreciated.

And seriously - that large polka dot print deserves the attention!

This latest version of the bag is made with a new fabric line from Poppie Cotton called Dots and Posies.

The fabric line has over 20 different prints but I chose just a few of my favorites for these projects. I do love that large floral!  The line also has a fun cheater print (the one on the top left) that looks like english paper pieced hexagons. It's so darling!

For the interfacing on this bag I used Pellon 809. It's my favorite interfacing for bags and zipper pouches because it gives structure without making the bag all puffy.

The finished French Market Tote measures 11"(H) x 14"(W) x 3"(D)

To make one bag you'll need:

1/3 yard main bag print

3/4 yard bag liner and handles

18" x 45" piece of interfacing

I also made a small coordinating zipper pouch using one of my favorite tutorials (by Jedi Craft Girl - find it here). 

I used to be so intimidated by zipper pouches - well...anything with a zipper really.  But Amanda's tutorial is easy to follow and makes a great size of pouch: 5.5" tall, 8.5" wide (at the widest point).

I used the same Pellon 809 interfacing for the pouch that I used in the tote bag. And I just HAD to use a fun liner print! 

Dots and Posies fabrics will be in stores soon, and if your local shop doesn't carry it, check etsy!

Hope you have a great week, and that you're able to sneak in some sewing time!