Explorer Tote Pattern

Enjoy filling up the large size tote for an overnight getaway! Or make the small tote size for everyday use.

Special Features:
  • front pocket, divided back pocket, and large divided interior slip pocket
  • open top or recessed zipper closure options, flap with closure provides extra security for both
  • large size includes short handles and a detachable strap, small size features over the shoulder straps

Skill Level/Dimensions/Materials:

    Skill Level: Advanced beginner

    + Approx. Finished Dimensions: 22” W, 14” H, 7” deep - large (18” W, 13” H, 4” deep - small)

    Materials needed:

    Requirements based on 44”-wide fabric.

    Size small noted in { }.

    • 1 yard Exterior Fabric
    • 1 3/4 yard {1 yard} Lining Fabric (includes interior pocket)
    • 1/2 yard Contrast Bottom*
    • ½ yard {¼ yard} Accent Fabric (includes strap/handles)
    • 2 ¼ yards {2 yards} Fusible Woven Interfacing (Pellon SF101 - 20”-wide)
    • 3/4 yard {½ yard} Fusible Fleece (Pellon 987F - 44” wide)
    • 1 yard {½ yard} Fusible Medium-weight Interfacing (Pellon 809 - 44” wide)
    • (2) 1”-wide metal D-rings (large only - for detachable strap)
    • 1 ½”-wide metal strap slider (large only - for detachable strap)
    • (2) 1 ½”-wide metal swivel snaps (large only - for detachable strap)
    • 24” {20”} purse zipper (for optional recessed zipper closure)
    • Small Turn Lock (approx. 1-3/8” x 3/4”  is recommended)

    Hardware kit for large available here.

    Leather crossbody strap and handle kit here.

    Recommended Fabrics: *Waxed Canvas for contrast bottom. Waxed canvas, cotton canvas, cotton/linen canvas, denim, home dec for exterior. Medium weight (5-6 oz.) fabric for accent. Quilting cotton for lining.

    *If substituting fabric types for contrast bottom, additional interfacing may be needed for desired structure (½ yard of byAnnie’s Soft and Stable recommended).

    Additional supplies + tools: Polyester thread, water-soluble pen/tailor’s chalk, cutting mat, ruler, rotary cutter, turning tool, seam sealant (such as Fray Check), denim or Microtex needle, pinking shears, small scrap of heavy interfacing - Pellon Peltex 71F, (optional) two {one} 8-9mm rivets/rivet setter, (optional) one (size 24) pronged metal snap and snap setter for large tote (snap starter kit available here)

    Pattern/Download Information:

    This is a measure and cut pattern. It does include a template/pattern piece for the Flap  which will need to be printed. You will need a rotary cutter, gridded ruler, and self-healing cutting mat. Cut the pattern pieces straight from the fabric - saving time and paper. All pieces are rectangles except for the Flap. If you prefer, you can transfer the cutting measurements to paper (or a template material) to create your own paper template/pattern piece for the remaining pieces.

    For Digital (PDF) pattern:

    • Please download (and save) the pattern file to your computer!
    • You will have 9 download attempts, keep in mind each time you open to view the file counts as an attempt.
    • This PDF pattern consists of full-size pattern piece for flap, rectangular pieces with rotary cutting instruction/measurements (no printing necessary!) for all other pieces, a label sheet for keeping organized, and includes detailed step-by-step instructions and professional illustrations.
    • The file is and instant download. Please be sure to check the email address you entered at checkout, the instant download link will be sent to that email address. After purchase is complete you will also be redirected to a page with the download link.

    For Paper (printed) pattern:

    Paper pattern version includes instruction booklet with step-by-step instructions and professional illustrations, pattern sheet for flap piece and rotary cutting instructions/measurements for all other pattern pieces (just cut and sew, no need to cut out pattern pieces), a label sheet for keeping organized, full-color cover sheet, all tucked into a resealable poly bag. Paper pattern is shipped via USPS.

    Sell finished items! You (the purchaser of this pattern) can sell finished sewn items made using this pattern (on a home-based scale), credit to Anna Graham www.noodle-head.com is appreciated!

    NOTICE: It may not be possible to download a PDF file directly to your iPad or Android tablet/mobile device without a download app. I use Acrobat Reader in combination with Dropbox to download files using my mobile device.

    Frequently Bought Together