Texas Sized Tote Bag: The Modified One

Hi friends!

I recently made another Texas Sized Tote Bag with a few modifications and wanted to share some details about it. This pattern is super beginner-friendly and is a fast make if you’re looking for a quick win.

 TL; DR:

• I used 1.5” webbing straps instead of the 1” straps specified in the pattern.
• I opted for 2” boxed corners to add extra depth compared to the original 1.5”.

My LQS (local quilt shop), Quilting Quarters, just started carrying fabric from my favorite manufacturer, Ruby Star Society (RSS), and I couldn’t resist picking some up during my last visit.

For the bag’s exterior, I chose a gorgeous RSS linen/canvas fabric from their Pivot collection, paired with a coordinating cotton fabric for the lining.

Initially, I purchased a yard of the exterior fabric without a specific project in mind, but I knew it would be enough for a Texas Sized Tote if I decided to make one. In the end, I only used half a yard for the exterior. The lining also required just half a yard of quilting cotton, making this pattern quite versatile for using what you already have on hand. I’m looking at you, quilters.

I could’ve used the yard of exterior fabric to make matching bag straps (as detailed in the pattern) but I found this cute 1.5” striped webbing in my stash (yes, I hoard all things bag making, quilting, sewing, etc.) and decided to use that instead of making fabric straps. The pattern calls for 1” straps, but you can easily use 1.5” if that’s what you prefer or have on hand.

After choosing the strap, I wanted to give the bag a bit more depth (because what’s another mod, amirite?) so I cut 2” boxed corners instead of the 1.5” ones recommended by the pattern. This adjustment made a subtle yet effective difference in the bag’s capacity without altering its overall look too dramatically. I'm stoked with how it turned out!

I hope you find these modifications helpful and that they inspire you to create your own tote. If you do, be sure to tag me! I’d love to see your makes! @bri.inbloom @inbloomsewingstudio #texassizedtotebag

Happy making!

Bri

Link to purchase this exact tote bag can be found here.