Bonjour Quilted Market Tote
The day is finally here! I’m over the moon excited to be able to introduce the Bonjour Quilted Market tote to you. This is seriously the market tote of my dreams! Stylish, roomy, semi-structured, and easy-to-make…this is the last market tote you’ll ever need!
In order to write the pattern, I needed to create multiple samples, and what better fabric to use for the samples than the amazing Elegance collection designed by Corinne Wells for Riley Blake Designs. On all three bags I used the Main print which features a gorgeous toile design in Navy, Ivory, and Gold. Isn’t it gorgeous?!
My daughter was staying with us for a few days before returning to law school, and she immediately claimed the Ivory version for herself. She lives near the beach, so this will no doubt double as a beach bag for her. The bag measures approximately 17” x 19” — a generous size without being too cumbersome — a perfect size for shopping, trips to the beach, picnics, storing your knitting projects, and more.
The narrow straight line quilting gives the bag both structure and a beautiful, timeless feel. With the French seams being on the OUTSIDE of this bag, they become an essential design element, while they discreetly encase the inside seams, creating a clean, finished look.
I mixed and matched fabrics from the Elegance collection because they are all so gorgeous! I used different fabrics for the sides and lining pieces, creating a whimsical feel. For a more modern look, you could use solids, or go country with gingham…the options are endless!
One of my favorite features on this bag is the bias tape edge. I used store bought bias tape here, but you could easily create your own for additional customization. I love how the bias tape folds over to create a clean, professional look to the bag.
One possible option is to add a ribbon embellishment to the straps. Another optional addition is to add a pocket by repurposing old jeans pockets. In my pattern, I add a jeans pocket to a bag, and I just LOVE how it looks!
You can find the Bonjour Quilted Market Tote in my shop. (Link below)
I also created a YouTube video where I sew a Bonjour Quilted Market Tote from start to finish. Grab the pattern and sew along with me!
Watch the tutorial here, or click the link at the top of the video to visit my YouTube channel where you can like and subscribe to receive more creative content and project ideas.
The Bonjour Quilted Market Tote is easy enough to make that you’ll find you want to make several versions — one for yourself, and extras to give as gifts. Of course, I can’t just make one for myself. I think I’m going to need one for every season and every holiday! I’m addicted to this bag!
I’d love to see all of the unique versions of this bag you come up with. Share your finished bags with me on Instagram by tagging me @bayhillstudio!
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