Marilyn’s Multi-tasker

I realized that one of the reasons I like making the same tote bag pattern over and over is that I am trying to understand it. I want to understand it so I can change the pattern to suit my needs and also incorporate the techniques into my own design bag of tricks.

Completed Bag, Nov. 2009
Completed Bag, Nov. 2009

The Anna Maria Horner Multi-tasker tote is no exception. As I mentioned in a previous post, I love the way this tote goes together. Above is my completed Multi-tasker tote #2. This will be a gift for a friend of mine. I used Lonni Rossi’s new fabric line in the black and white colorway. You can buy them at Back Porch if you want some.

I used a FQ pack and had to piece some of the fabrics together to make them large enough to fit the pattern pieces. The pattern calls for more yardage than an FQ pack, however I only had a FQ pack of the fabrics and am always up for a challenge.

Nov. AMMTT in progress
Nov. AMMTT in progress
Bernina Bliss
Bernina Bliss

I always enjoy using TFQ’s Bernina 1230. It is a tough little machine that has never really given me any problems. Now I know how to wind the bobbin and rethread. TFQ better watch out or I’ll just take it over! 😉

It doesn’t have the bells and whistles that mine does (I miss the auto needle up button!), but it does bags very well. I also like the button holer.

I always have a tough time maneuvering the fabric through the sewing machine as the layers increase. Towards the end of the process I was sewing through about 8 layers of fabric or seams or interfacing. I found that TFQ’s  machine was powered right through with no grunts, groans or complaints.

Nov. Tote, detail
Nov. Tote, detail

The pattern doesn’t call for as much interfacing as I put in, but I like my bags to have some body, so I put interfacing on the exterior and lining pieces. I omitted it from the pocket panels.

I am pretty pleased with how it came out and hope my friend is as well. I am going to size this pattern down so it fits me better. If it doesn’t work, then I probably won’t make anymore of these totes, despite the great way they go together.

I am also working on a Chubby Charmer tote. Stay tuned!

Author: Jaye

Quiltmaker who enjoys writing and frozen chocolate covered bananas.

3 thoughts on “Marilyn’s Multi-tasker”

  1. As usual I love your bags and this fabric is perfect – so if you want to try the pattern out again – let me know and I’ll send you some yardage! LOL

    😀 eirdre

    1. I’ll be happy to make you a bag. Why don’t you send me a picture of the yardage you like and I’ll see if I have it, then you can make a dress to go with the bag? 😉

  2. I enjoyed your information on the construction of the bag. I think it’s a great idea to make a pattern a few times and get comfortable with it before using your creative license. Love the fabrics you picked, I’m sure your friend will love it. I have the pattern in my to do pile

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