I was able to finish the Joni Tote last week.
The Joni Tote, as mentioned, is a Sew Hungry Hippie pattern. It is a basic tote. The written instructions are super basic and then you have to go watch the video. If I had known this was mostly a video pattern, I would not have bought the paper pattern. I don’t like being forced to watch the video, especially if I can’t skip to the secotion with which I need help.
You also do not need the acrylic templates to make this tote as the pattern pieces are easily rotary cuttable. I am not trying to discourage you from buying from Sew Hungry Hippie (great content, great service, interesting designs). I was just disappointed at the price of the pattern vs. what I got.
Still, the tote is a good size, it turns out as I should not be carrying much more than I can fit in it. I still plan to use my new Quilter’s Assistant Proportional Scale** to try the pattern in a larger size later. I want to see if it works.
I have to remember to cut the lining smaller as it turned out too saggy-baggy for me. I did partially anchor it to the exterior seams, so at least the lining won’t fly out.
I like the fabric I used. I used what I had left of the grey Tula Poms. It makes the interior very cheerful. I didn’t have enough for the whole interior, but the stripes coordinate well, as they should.
The exterior is the Sewfisticated VibrantVue in Cherry Blossom. One of the things I like about it is that I can easily wipe off any dirt that gets on the bottom.
Honestly, I barely followed the directions for this bag. I used the cutting instructions. I lined everything, which is not part of the pattern. I added foam to the exterior pieces so the bag stands up, which is also not part of the pattern. I also did a self bordering sort of technique for the trim on the exterior pockets rather than making a binding.
I am sure Natalie made this bag faster, but I am happy with how mine turned out. Another UFO Challenge completed!
**Obviously, you should shop at local quilt shops and small businesses, as I did. However, if you are too busy, don’t have a local shop nearby or can’t find what you need, I use Amazon affiliate links. I may be paid for your purchase of an item when you click on an item’s link in my post. There is no additional cost to you for clicking or purchasing items I recommend. I don’t link to items I don’t like. I appreciate your clicks and purchases as it helps support this website.
