I have made a fair amount of sewn or quilted totes and bags so far, but never one with purchased frames or handles. I have often admired the ones I've seen, and wanted someday to try my hand at it. That chance came when Zakka Workshop reached out to me to ask if I wanted to try one of their new products. 

I picked the carry me tube frame bag, since I love the shape. It reminds me a lot of the style you might see a granny carrying around her knitting in. 

Since this is the first time I've done anything like this, I followed the instructions carefully and took my time. I found it to be quite clear, and broken down into little steps.

I used this adorable canvas weight home dec fabric by Lori Holt, and lined it with another Lori Holt print (this one was just regular quilting cotton.) Honestly, though, I could think of soooo many combos from my stash that would have been just perfect!

I didn't have any fusible fleece, so I used another layer of a canvas-like fabric in my stash, and I was pretty happy with the structure, even though the interfacing they recommend would no doubt have been better.

I didn't see the tip to baste the handle cases in place until I had already had to redo one of them, so I can definitely recommend that tip – it would be a huge help! That was the most fiddly part.

The rest was straightforward. It actually went together fairly quickly. Now that I know what I'm doing, it would be even faster next time. 

I like how roomy it is. You can fit two fat quarter stacks in there side by side. 

I also like how the tube handles hold it open so nicely. It's definitely perfect for a carry-along project bag!

It's so fun to see the amazingly different looks you can get with other fabric choices and styles, if you follow along with the other makers that are part of this! I have to say I'm quite happy with my first attempt at this type of bag, and am encouraged to try out other types in the future.

Check out Zakka Workshop for your bag making hardware, and if you're a little intimidated by the idea – don't be! It's much less scary than it looks. :-)