I don’t have any traveling plans at the moment (who does, during a pandemic?), but I like to think I won’t be homebound forever. When I’m able to travel again, I want to bring my latest make—a pared-down version of the Explorer tote by Anna Graham (Noodlehead). This is the larger size, which works for an overnight trip. Her pattern includes front pockets and a flap, but I omitted them because I was wary of adding too many features when sewing with striped fabric.
The bottom of my tote is black waxed canvas, the striped fabric is from this independent quilt shop, and the handles are cotton webbing.
A couple of years ago, I made the smaller version of the tote, but I left out the recessed zipper because I wasn’t confident that I knew how to add it. For this bag, I took the risk of including it. I love having the inset zipper because it feels more secure to be able to zip everything up.
I included a zippered pocket on the inside, using the directions from her Zip-Top Tote pattern (included in her book).
You can probably tell that I am a fan of Noodlehead sewing patterns. I have made several of them, and they all come out well. Her directions are always detailed and clear.
Here’s to being able to (safely) travel again!