Buckthorn Tote in Memento

I have a new make that I’m very pleased with–the Buckthorn Tote in Memento.

The Fabric

I used one of the canvas prints in my Memento collection. I LOVE the weight of this canvas. The Ruby Star selvages are incredibly fun to play around with. I fussy cut my name into the front pocket here, but you could definitely play around with the color, motifs and other language available.

The pattern gives you a few different directions you can go in terms of interfacing. I don’t always like messing fusible fleece (or figuring out if I have any–ha!), so I just used Pellon SF101 woven fusible interfacing for both the exterior and lining fabrics. I’m happy with the resulting weight.

Put a label on it! You gotta love all of the woven label options. This one is from Kylie and the Machine. There are several good locations for a label, and I worked this one into the back.

Sourcing the Notions

When making bags and totes, you will need some hardware, and I think it’s helpful to know of some good places to source those notions. This tote requires a zipper, webbing and some hardware. If you want to make it really easy, Noodlehead has supply kits just for this project as well as loads of good webbing and zipper options. Stitch Supply Co has incredible hardware options as well as zippers and webbing, and Knot + Thread is a great option for webbing and hardware too. I’ll mention Sewtopia too. They have it all, and if you can catch them at an event, I’ll bet they have a full kit for this project and others that will suck you right in.

The Buckthorn Tote Pattern

The Buckthorn Tote pattern by Noodlehead is one I’ve been wanting to make for some time. I love the flexiblity and simplicity of it. After waffling over the fabric and notion options, I spent one session of time cutting out the pieces and a second session of time sewing it all together.

There are two size options–Backpack and Tote. I wanted to make the backpack for its size and ability to be carried as a backpack.

It’s the perfect size for toting around a surprising amount of stuff without being too big to use everyday. Like all of the Noodlehead patterns, it’s smartly constructed and the directions are a delight to follow. I will definitely be making more Buckthorns in the future!