Catch of the Day Lobster Tote

Drum roll please!  I am happy to announce the release of the 4th pattern in the Tidewater Totes series.  There's nothing that says "east coast" more than lobsters.   

I sewed the red, white and blue bag first and then saw this picture online, which suggested a totally different palette for my crustacean.  

I had the perfect mottled orange-red batik in my stash.

All the stitching on the bags is done completely by machine.

The colours are off in this shot, it's actually prettier in person, but you can't order up sunny days at will.  (Or at least I can't...)

The totes feature two inside pockets, one of which spans the width of the bag, and has a simple loop and button closure.  I actually used a wooden toggle on the green bag. The features are added with thread, but you could use a permanent marker (like a Sharpie) for the feelers and eyes if you prefer.

As before, we took the totes to the lighthouse park in Five Islands for the photo shoot.

If you have ever been near the Bay of Fundy when the tide is coming in, you will understand that it's no small feat to take good pictures.  These bags are all weighted down with bricks inside to prevent them blowing off the bench.  Even so, it's snap, snap, snap quick-as-you-can!

The totes for all 4 of these designs are available in print and download version on my website, and are shipping out to stores as I write so please check at your local quilt shop.  

Tidewater Totes Launch!

"Tidewater Totes" photographed at the Lighthouse Park in Five Islands, Nova Scotia.

I am thrilled to announce that the first three patterns in a series of "Tidewater Tote" Bags are now ready.  These have truly been a labour of love, and learning.  The challenge in designing is to make things attractive and detailed -while keeping the sewing as simple as possible- and I believe that goal has been achieved in these simple-to-stitch projects. Whale tails flashing above the water line, lobsters with their claws held high, anchors, and sailboats adorn the tote bag fronts, which are added in fusible raw-edge appliqué. These are uncomplicated, quick and easy to sew bags that can be made one day and put to use the next.  Tidewater Totes patterns include clear, tested instructions and full sized templates.

The idea for these bags actually originated with local businessman James Austin, who felt we needed a bit more "Maritime" in our buying choices, and I thank him for that. Tidewater Totes are a series of fun, practical bags with an east coast flair. The bags are fully lined and sport an inside pocket, but each design has different features and dimensions. Some have outside pockets or zippered inside pockets, while others feature open tops or tops closed with hook and loop tape, recessed zippers, flaps, or toggles.

This is the Sand Point Beach Bag which features soft rope handles.  I am happy to say I figured out an easy way to attach the handles which does not involve applying grommets or making buttonholes. (I hate cutting holes in a project; I always make a big mess, or get the hole in the wrong spot and then it's ruined.) The rope (available at craft shops) gives a nice, nautical touch.  The bag has an open top so you can easily stuff it with necessities for a day at the beach.

Inside is a zippered pocket for valuables. as well as a key strap for a carabiner to hold your keys. 

The bag takes its name from Sand Point Beach in beautiful Five Islands.

This one is "The Boat Tote", generously sized and featuring a recessed zipper on the top of the bag.  Inside is an open pocket.

My favourite of the bunch is The Whale Tail Tote.  

This pattern contains instructions for two different versions.  The one shown in blue has a double open pocket on the front (under the wave)  Version 2 (shown in green) has a simple appliquéd wave.  Both bags feature an inside pocket and a hook-and-loop top closure.

Soon to follow will be fish, lobsters, lighthouses, and a few more nautical surprises. 

Patterns are available in both print and digital downloads from my website at this link:

Patterns may also be found at selected quilt stores, so please ask at your local quilt shop for your Tidewater Tote pattern.