Patchwork Tote Bag Finish

 I finished putting this totebag together yesterday.  I'm pretty pleased.

 You could say that in one way its been a WIP for four years.

 The patchwork squares came from left overs from a quilt that I completed in 2011.  They have been languishing since then because I never had a good idea what to do with them. 

 It started when I wanted to try this stitch out on something before I committed it to a quilt.  So I started with the bottom of a bag, and things just evolved from there.

 All the pieces laid out, ready and waiting.  I didn't use a pattern, just made it up as I went along.  It is just a basic tote bag with boxed corners.

 I did two layers of Pellon Cotton for the bottom and sides.  I wanted some body, but didn't want to go so far as stiff interfacing.  I also wanted to use what I had on hand.

 Took it outside for pictures in our fresh snow layer.  And now the temperature is supposed to drop low, again.

 Needs some de-fuzzing!

 I even put a pocket and key holder in it.  More for looks, I usually don't use them.  The lining is a lightweight cotton.  A wise woman told me that bags should be lined with light color fabrics so you can find your stuff.  Same woman gave me the white fabric.  I was afraid it might show the quilting lines, but so far its OK.

 I got the D rings in part of a great bunch of loot from a local thrift store!   Yay for inexpensive notions.  If I had needed bias tape it would have been the jack pot.

 The details:
5.5" x 11.5" x 12.5"  Straps are 31".  I really like long straps to go over my shoulders.
Fabrics: batiks and plain black
Quilted with red and black Aurifil
Two layers of Pellon Cotton batting.