Super Smashing Tote!

Well I promised you a Sunday reveal, and I am now just about caught up with school uniforms and camp washing, (really quite relieved about the lack of mud), and trying to postpone that 'oh no, back to work tomorrow' feeling for as long as possible!

So here we have it...

I am going to claim this as my first Super Tote, as I love it so much, I really would like a version of this bag for all occasions and outfits!

The pattern is exactly what I have felt about all of Anna-Noodlehead's; very simple to follow, very preparation-intensive - but you know it will be worth it, open to a few personal tweaks if you are that way inclined, and turns out so well that you get a thrill from knowing that you made it.

With the exception of the long zipper, I made it from stash, and I am really quite pleased about that too.

Modifications?  I added an extra pocket inside the front outer one, because I had a perfect scrap of Echino, which I was determined to incorporate; it will also be useful for separating my phone or train tickets or other essentials from the rest of the gubbins I haul about.  I took the fully-lined outer pocket option, rather than just adding a facing.

I didn't stitch divided sections within the inside elasticated pockets, simply stitched a button in the middle and through the lining on each side, so that the pockets were maximum size but not gaping, as I feared they would be without anything.

I did a proper double-row of stitching to gather the bottom edge of the inside pockets too, for a nice even finish on those; I am getting so fancy in my old age.

My lining is a heavier weight aqua cotton canvas that I must have bought years ago, which, along with the Echino linen and woven interfacing, gives it a real sturdy feeling, and it can stand up on its own.

Oh and can I just say, Jeans needles, gift from the gods or what!!!?

My only regret is not bulking up the straps more, I added a strip of fusible fleece, but could have done with another layer.  I will remember that for next time.

I personally found this easier that the 241, as there are no tight curves to sew and top-stitch; and the size is brilliant, big without looking bonkers!

I think I am going to keep this one clean and fresh until Retreat, but you never know, I may have made another one by then!