from Marta with Love

My 241 Tote Bag

I sewed a bag this weekend! The 241 Tote by Noodlehead (pattern here).

Finally something it’s cheaper to make yourself than to buy. I think the common misconception among non-sewists is that sewing something yourself is cheaper than buying. For the most part, that’s wrong. This might’ve been true, say, 25 years ago, but not anymore (especially with the rising price of cotton). Good fabric isn’t cheap, and you have to take into account how much your time is worth in making these things. That being said, however, for smaller projects like this tote, making something yourself definitely pays off! For under $25, I bought enough fabric and interfacing for 2 bags. The pattern is $8, and the magnetic clasps (bought mine here) are $11 for 25. All told, the cost per bag is about $17, give or take. And since they’re relatively easy and quick to make, the time cost is also minimal. Success!

The next time I make this, I’ll enlarge the pattern about 20% for a bigger bag, and I’ll try using medium-weight interfacing for the strap to make it a bit sturdier. Otherwise, I was very happy with the pattern and certainly the finished product. One of the best parts about making things yourself is the fun in customizing to your own taste and style. I love this bag!

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6 Comments

  • Aunt Marti

    Marta, it looks great! I always use quilt batting to line my straps, to make them sturdier.

    June 4, 2012 at 3:22 pm Reply
  • mle

    This came out so great! and it was a really enjoyable bag to so too wasn't it? Not too fussy but not boring either.

    June 4, 2012 at 6:01 pm Reply
  • mle

    sew! not soLOL!

    June 4, 2012 at 6:01 pm Reply
  • **nicke...

    super super cute! i love the fabrics and great idea to make it bigger! xo

    June 6, 2012 at 6:09 pm Reply
  • Beth

    Looks great! After seeing these around blogland and reading your price breakdown, I really think I should go order it right now.

    June 11, 2012 at 11:58 pm Reply
  • monika bialostocka

    great project, I think mum loves it!

    July 1, 2012 at 12:55 am Reply
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