The Pepper Tote :: Turned instead of Bound
I made another version of the Pepper tote {a free pattern you can find here!} over the last couple of weeks. This time I used hexagons with a 1 1/4″ side {so they are 2 1/2″ in diameter, point to point}. I actually used glue basting for the very first time, which I’m excited worked very well!
Here’s a closer look at the top portion, will you believe this is the first regular tote bag I’ve turned instead of bound? The only disappointment for me was that this took off some of the top height, and therefore made the shape a little more boxed than the original. But, it was a much speedier finish!
Here’s the full finish. I loved the way the yellow stood out on the Black Yarn Dyed Essex Linen, and then the bright Folk Song fabrics were bright and stood out for the hexagons as well. Interestingly, I hadn’t planned on making the bright yellow handles, I was going to go with a low volume text print. I had bought the yellow as a bolt end from Sew Lux during my last order, so it was just sitting on my cutting table {aka, my dining room table!}. When I went to grab the text for the handles, I just knew I needed this bright yellow instead and there was exactly enough to finish it, with a little scrap leftover.
Here are the two styles of the Pepper tote side by side. This finishing option is included in the free pattern, so I had wanted to make one up like this for everyone to see. It always surprises me how different a bag can look when different fabrics are used. Also, the smaller hexagons add a different dimension to the bag.
Back to my comment above about glue basting hexagons {instead of using thread}, is anyone else familiar with this technique? I could not believe how easy it was! I’d love to hear your tips or thoughts on using glue.
I love the newer version, it is more my style of fabrics and this is such a lovely pattern.
Really pretty, even though I do love binding I think with this fabric it looks more special turned!! Great finish!!
I love that bag! I’ll be doing me some hexes this week to make on. I love glue basting. I use it for lots of things, better and more stable then pins and keeps your fabric where you want it.
The Pepper Tote is fabulous! Love the way you used hexies…so pretty!
Love the Pepper Tote! And I used to thread baste my hexies until I learned about the gluing option. Don’t think I’ll be thread basting anymore unless I’m in a pinch! So far the glue I like is the Lapel Stick but I’ve bought the Fons and Porter Glue pen that a friend told me about so going to see if I like it better. Thanks for the great pattern freebie!
Love the new version! Very classy and even though I am not a fan with yellow, gray and black makes it acceptable. I really like it on your bag!
I love glue, thanks to Christy at Purple Daisy but it doesn’t work for me with binding and zippers. I have not attempted applique yet, but I am sure I’d use it then.
Another great tote Jennie! I love the pop of yellow. Happy sewing!
I love your latest version! That yellow zipper is the perfect finishing touch! And I don’t think you can go past Essex Linen- or anything!
Love your tote. Esp. how your did the zipper.
Hugs
donna
Your latest bag is stunning!! I love every detail about it!!
I have made hexies without thread, too , but using freezer paper and an iron.
I will be looking up your pattern…. thanks so much for the inspiration!