A "Simply Stylish Tote"

The other day I pulled out this pattern. I had cut out the pieces already but decided I needed some fusible web before I continued to make it a little stronger so I put it aside. But while the boys were gone last week, the Chick and I stopped by our local Hancock's and I grabbed some fusible web while I was there. Not to mention several 99 cent Butterick's patterns.

Later that day as the Chick labored over her project, I sewed up this cute bag. It isn't huge -- just purse sized. I should have taken a picture with something next to it for scale.

I didn't put a snap on it because I didn't think I'd want to use it as a purse. Now I wish I had. Because that's exactly what I've been using it for since Saturday.

My boss saw it and told me how cute it was yesterday. Then she was amazed and astounded that I had made it. The bottom and straps are from canvas I already had from a previous project and the patterned section came from a fat quarter that I paid a dollar for.

All total it probably cost around $2 to make this purse after the fusible web and fat quarter. I like it so much too. It's probably more fall than summer though. I may have to look through my stash and see what summery fabrics I have to play with.

The pattern is free on the HGTV website. You can find it here if you'd like to try it yourself. I might have added the ribbon trim but I didn't have any that went so well with my color choices as theirs does.

If you make one, be sure and tell me how yours turned out.