The Project this month is the Handy Tote; this is a variation of one of my favorite projects, the Handy Bag.  The Handy Tote measures 17” tall, 13” wide with a 6” box bottom, what I call “Convertible Handles” with a drop of 8” or 16” and an optional Drawstring top closure. The Handy Tote serges up quickly and includes some of my favorite techniques: Clean Starts and Stops, the easiest box bottom, circular turned tubes, and the convertible handle. I’m using three or four coordinating prints of quilt weight cotton. Non-directional prints work best for the Handy Tote.


Techniques this month: Clean Starts and Stops, circular turned tubes, easy box bottom, and how to make a convertible handle. 


Downloadable content included with the course:

Project Sheet with supplies, materials list, and cutting information and Full-Color PDF step by step instructions.



Course Curriculum


  Project Sheet
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  Handy Tote Instructions
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  Product Info
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Hi, I'm PJ


Since 2006 I’ve been a teacher at Montavilla Sewing Centers in the Portland Metro area. I design, produce and teach the monthly projects for Babylock Serger Club, Janome, BabyLock and Brother Machine Embroidery Club, and 8” Block of the month Club.

I have a lot of fun creating projects, designs, and patterns that incorporate techniques and products to encourage the students to get the most out of their Sergers or Embroidery Machines.

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