Monday, April 11, 2016

Takeoff Tote #3, enlarged

I made another Takeoff Tote from the pattern by Erin (Erickson) Gilbey. I liked my first one a lot, but since I never learned to travel light and like to carry the kitchen sink along with me, it just wasn't quite big enough. Everything fit in it, but it was tight and made it hard to get things in and out. So I decided to enlarge the pattern to 115%. I used the brown Meridian print (my very favorite) from Jess's In Theory line of barkcloth for Cloud9 Fabrics. Here is my new tote!


Below is a comparison between the regular size tote and the enlarged one. There's just enough difference to give me the extra space I needed, about a couple inches all around.


I added six purse feet on the bottom to help keep that pretty barkcloth out of the dirt.


I also decided after cutting it out that the enlarged inner pocket was going to be too deep at that size, so I trimmed a 2-inch strip off the bottom and put the pocket about 3 inches from the bottom of the bag. Then I got a "brilliant" idea for using those 2" strips of main fabric and lining. I made a tube out of them, inserted elastic, and sewed it to the side of the lining opposite the pocket. I thought it might be useful for keeping some things upright. It worked okay, but I don't know if it was worth the bother. I probably wouldn't do it again.


The other change I made was to add a 10-inch strip of foam to the center of each strap. It worked well and I appreciated the padding for my shoulder.

I love my new bag, and it's already been on its maiden voyage! We spent the first week of April at Jess & Alex's in Newport, Kentucky (Cincinnati area). Here I am in their backyard with my new bag, so you can see its size.


Jess took the photos, and I couldn't decide which one I like best, so you get to see me TWICE! Besides, they got a new gate, which made for a pretty cool background. :)


Of course I took some photos of other things while we were there, so I'll be showing them to you soon. Jess and I worked on a little sewing project, too, and of course I'll be showing you that. Also, if you're interested in seeing my Takeoff Tote #2, it's here. (The link to my first one is at the top of this post.)

7 comments:

Jenny said...

Beautiful color combo on that bag! I like the idea of those loops to hold upright things, but I can see how they would be more work than they are actually worth. I actually have this pattern. Maybe someday I'll actually get around to making it! If/when I do, I'll be sure to remember the tip about the foam in the handles. That's a great idea!

Norma's Bag Boutique said...

Very nice! It makes sense to enlarge. Beautiful color combo.

Grandma G said...

Thanks, Jenny! Maybe you'll make it after you make the Date Night? ;)

Thanks, Norma! I'm glad I went for the larger bag... it worked well all around.

Anonymous said...

I LOVE that bag! You are so talented. My wish list of items you have made grows again. Bet you had a grand time with Jess and Alex. What does a girl have to do to get you to pack that bag and visit ME???!!!

XO
Kristin

Geneviève said...

You got me laughing with the kitchen sink thing. :D

Padding the strap was a really great idea (one more reason to make me want to do one more tote :P). Superb work! The purse feet are really lovely too.

I also note that you didn't use your usual model. It's a fun change. :D

annie dee said...

This bag came out great! Love the fabric as well. Looks terrific with the bright pink straps. Super job!! And that is a really cool gate.

Grandma G said...

Thanks, ladies - much appreciated!

Kristin... we did have a lovely time with J&A! Maybe if you moved closer.... ;)

Geneviève... sorry about not telling you sooner about the strap padding, but you already had your straps sewn on before I decided to do it. Yep, you'll just have to make another one. :) My little model's cuter, but for a bag this big, it seemed better to have an adult model it for a better size perspective.

Annie Dee... it is a very cool gate, indeed! Glad you noticed!