The featured project is a tote bag made with echino ni-co’s sign, a hand drawn alphabet and bias stripe pattern fabric that will let you enjoy two different designs. The front pocket with a zipper will make this bag even more convenient. To match the color tone of the fabric, a fringe tied on the slider comes in a chic color. Depending on the season or your mood, you may play with different colors or materials.
Fabric shown for this sample: echino ni-co JG90000-103 (A)
Materials:
□ Fabric (Main bag outer fabric, Handle): 110cm wide×80cm
(Main bag lining fabric): 40cm×60cm
□ Fusible interfacing: 80x40cm
□ Fusible tape: 20cm (1cm wide)
□ Zipper: One piece (15cm long)
□ Magnetic hook (sew on type): One pair (1.4cm diameter)
□ Faux suede tape: 1m (0.3cm wide)
We interviewed Anriko about her creation:
Kokka Fabric (KF): What did you think of the fabric you used for this project?
This is not the first combination fabric from echino, but this one has a large design right in the center. I thought of making something that will feature both designs.
KF: Can you tell us any special elements or ideas that you incorporated into this creation?
While maintaining the masculine feel of the ni-co series, the pattern is linear. Since the handle is flat, you can enjoy a different look while holding a bag or when a bag is placed.
KF: What are some tips for making this bag?
The invisible zipper pocket is convenient to learn. Except for this pocket, the instructions are quite simple. Also, I came up with an easy to follow steps that would help hide the roughness of the stitches. There aren’t many places where the fabrics are layered, so a household sewing machine can do the job. Just to be safe, I used a #11 needle, and it was just fine.
KF: How should we use this bag in everyday situations?
An easy-to-tie fringe is added to the zipper slider. Even a simple shaped bag will look stylish with such an accent. I highly recommend adding a bottom cardboard so that the square look of the bag will even stand out.
KF: Thank you very much, Anriko! Here are sewing instructions along with step by step photos from her. Enjoy crafting!