Tote Bags
An intermediate class that builds on basic sewing techniques, sets the foundation for more advanced projects, and you create a cool tote bag.
The pieced tote bag will offer some basic information on the skill of piecing, that will be beneficial for those who are quilt curious, as well as how to line a small bag and other techniques that will apply to other future projects.
The farmers market tote will teach students how to fully line a slightly larger bag.
What You'll Learn
- Working with a pattern
- Introduced to interfacing
- Bag lining
- Pattern matching
- Piecing, if you select the pieced tote option (gateway to quilting)
- Working with curves
- Create and place pockets
Prerequisites
If you're new to sewing or want a refresher to get you ready for this class, check out the Beginner Basics class, the Intro to Sewing Course or the in-depth Beginner Sewing Program.
Tools & Supplies
- All fabric should be quilting cotton
- top portion: 1/2 yard
- bottom portion: 1/3 yard (if you want multiple pieces, as shown in the example, bring 1/3 yard for each)
- inside lining: 2/3 yard
- All fabric should be quilting cotton
- 1 yard of fabric for the outside of the bag
- 1 yard of fabric for the inside of the bag
- 1 1/2 yards of decor bond (Pellon 809)
You will also need:
- Sewing machine - Please review the tools & supplies list carefully for any machine hardware requirements or contact us with any questions.
- Sewing kit:
- Pins or clips
- Pin cushion (if you're using pins)
- Scissors
- Snips
- Seam ripper
- Fabric markers or chalk
- Measuring tape
- Ruler
- Cutting mat
- Rotary cutter
- Extra sewing machine needles
- Find links to these common sewing kit items in the shop.
- All-purpose thread
Remember to pre-wash and dry your fabric before class.
Price
Private Class
Instructor-led private sewing class scheduled at a time that is best for you.
Number of StudentsSee discounted price for multiple students
Online
Live Video Chat
Public Class
To provide a personalized experience and accommodate busy schedules I primarily teach private sewing classes and this class does not currently have any public dates available, but you can request it as a private sewing class.
See registration details below.
Discounts
Private Classes/Lessons
Discounts are available when you sign-up multiple people for private classes or personalized lessons so get friends or family members together too. Select the number of students above to see the discounted price per person.
Online Sewing Classes
I developed a unique online learning experience to make it as close as possible to being in person. I make the same project along with you and show you the actions from multiple cameras as I guide you step by step. Learn more or contact me to schedule a demo to show you what it's like.
Duration
About the Instructor
Vanessa has been teaching children and adults for over 20 years. In addition to offering beginner to advanced sewing lessons she is an instructor in the Fashion Design Program at Austin Community College. Previously, Vanessa was an instructor at The Stitch Lab where she taught intro and specialty sewing classes, gave private lessons, hosted parties, and ran summer camps.
Vanessa is a full-time designer and seamstress working with clients on a wide variety of custom sewing and product development projects for fashion, wearable tech, decor, accessories and soft goods that keep her current with the latest sewing trends and technologies. She is also a machine service technician and has detailed knowledge of a wide range of sewing machines that enables her to personalize sewing lessons for the types of machines students are using.
Register
New Registrations Temporarily Closed
Thanks for your interest in taking sewing lessons with me!
Due to extremely high demand I am currently not available to take on more students. When open spots become available I will re-open registration.
If you would like to be notified when registration is available please subscribe to the Ronkita Design newsletter.
Thanks!
