True North Tote Class
From Transfer Embellish Stitch: 16 Textile Projects for the Modern Maker
By Sarah Case and Jen Fox
Class Description:
A fun project for a beginning sewer. Students will learn reverse appliqué, basic hand embroidery, and construction techniques for a simple tote. Follow the instructions for this versatile tote exactly or personalize it with your choice of motif and embellishment. Choose a different stitch or stitching placement, or perhaps add touches of fabric paint!
Class Length:
Two days, 3 hours per day.
Class Supply List:
• Required text: Transfer Embellish Stitch: 16 Textile Projects for the Modern Maker
• Embroidery transfer paper
• Ballpoint pen or pencil
• Embroidery floss: 3 colors
• Embroidery needle
• Fabric, main body: 5/8 yd
• Fabric, contrasting body: 1/3 yd
• Fabric, lining: 3/4 yd
• Strap material: kraft•tex, 7/8 yd OR interfaced fabric, 1/3 yd
• Mediumweight woven interfacing, 20˝ wide: 2 ¼ yd
• Coordinating thread
• Optional: magnetic purse snap
Classroom Preparation:
Each student will need table space and access to an outlet for their sewing machine. There should also be a pressing station for every three students attending.
Class Agenda:
Follow instructions in the book, encouraging students to choose from the motifs provided or even design their own. (Tip: If they are designing their own, be sure to set them up for success. Double check their design will work for the reverse appliqué technique.) Detailed instructions for the True North Tote are found on pp. 38-44.
Day 1:
Prep:
➢ Choose motif
➢ Cut fabric
Construction:
➢ Make a copy of the motif
➢ Use motif, accent fabric, and main fabric for reverse appliqué
➢ Assemble exterior body
Day 2:
➢ Embellish with hand embroidery (Encourage students’ own expression here—choose a different stitch or a different placement, or perhaps use fabric paint instead!)
➢ Make the straps
➢ Make the pocket
➢ Assemble the interior body
➢ Sew it all together
➢ Optional: add a magnetic snap
➢ Finishing
