Tote Bag

Well, I finally finished my 'Professional Tote Bag' by Creative Thimble. It will be my carry-on piece when I travel to England this month. I used fabrics I purchased at Ikea in Chicago. They are a bit heavier than regular cottons and were more difficult to sew several layers. But it did work out. The red fabric was plain until I stippled all over it with Sulky variegated black/gray.  The contrasting black fabric had the outline of white leaves all over it. I figured that would get a bit dirty over time so I coloured in all the lines with a permanent black Sharpie marker. Sucker for punishment or what!! I do like the effect. I did not colour some of the pocket linings as they won't be seen.

I did put the luggage strap on the back. I now have the option of hanging it on the handle of my wheeled luggage.

I can also put a bottle of water in one side pocket and an umbrella in the other.

This is a partial view of the inside. My note book is already packed!

View from the opposite side.

This fabric, again from Ikea, is the one used for the lining. It's not a typical design I use in projects but it looked crisp and clean and matched the red and black. I read somewhere once that bag linings should be light so you can find things in them. However, a friend of mine, mentioned reading the opposite of this. I guess, if you like it, use it!

This is my contrasting fabric before the black Sharpie marker was used.