Following on from June’s sew along (SAL) The Sew Together Bag  was an even more fabulous SAL the Maker’s Tote by Noodlehead. A perfect bag to hold a ton of crafty and sewing bits and pieces. As soon as I saw the pattern I knew I had to join in.

It took me ages to decide on which fabric I wanted to use, I was determined that I wouldn’t buy more fabric and had to raid my stash. I knew it had to be cute fabrics rather than my florals.

Do I go with the pigs, the hippos or the dogs?? In the end combined with the red polka dots the piggies won it for me!

I really enjoyed this pattern. I must admit I was a little intimidated at first, but working through it step by step I realised it actually wasn’t that bad or that hard.

I had been putting off cutting this out for so long, favouring smaller quicker projects and now I can’t wake to make another! The tote comes in two sizes and I went with the smaller size, but am wishing I had made the bigger one now and have added it to my ‘to make asap’ list! Although even though it is the ‘smaller’ tote, it has the capacity to fit so much in there.

I am happy with the end result, it’s by no means perfect and I know of a few flaws with it, but I did it and that feels really good!

I must apologise for the pictures like my quilt, bag making photo taking skills need much improvement, although I must admit some of it was to do with my excitement of finishing and sharing it with you.

If you are debating about whether to do this pattern or not or are worried it is too hard, my advice would be go for it!! Take each stage slowly, read each instruction and if in doubt ask questions.

So many times I’ve put off doing things because I’ve been worried that something is too hard or something I can’t do and I’ve decided to (try) and stop thinking like that and going for it. It’s how we learn. I’m beginning to believe the saying you can do anything you set your mind too, and I’m not just talking about this bag now. If you write something off straight away you won’t achieve it, but if you think to yourself I’m going to give this a try you’ve already taken the first step of reaching your goal, and even if you can’t get it right the first time at least you will have learnt a few things in the process!

Now I feel I will need to bookmark this post myself in my (MANY) times of doubt but for now I’m going to stay positive that I can achieve my goals and go for it! Next on the list a Unicorn quilt and a blouse for Mabel! I can’t wait to share them with you.