The Alexis Tote - Free Pattern!

[@alexiskaho]

I am the Alexis that is going to New York with this bag! I’m so excited! Thank you for making this tutorial for my mother!

[@simplyclassic]

You are so welcome! I am excited for you. Good luck on your adventure 😀

[@allow123]

Thank you ❤ You are a very great teacher 😍. Greetings from Egypt 🌷

[@user-qz2yg6or6t]

Thank you for this well explained tutorial. Definitely will be making this. Just recovering from breast cancer surgery and sewing is my happy place.

[@simplyclassic]

My gosh, I wish you well during your recovery!

[@allow123]

I wish you well recovered ❤

[@chryskramer]

Chris, you are the bees knees! Thank you!

[@LeJean_Dennis]

Tip: I have found what helps with bulk, cover the bulk with whatever fabric you choose to protect your project with, then hammer it down on a hard surface. It really helps.

[@simplyclassic]

Yes! Great tip! Thank you for sharing.

[@AnneMarieMitchell-om3gr]

Brilliant pattern and fantastic tutorial! I’d been thinking about figuring out how to make one of these, but I love your version better!!! Plus I really LOVE that you tell us when you’ve changed thread colors. Thank you so much!

[@lionteen1]

Love your videos, so informative and easy to follow more please

[@simplyclassic]

Thank you for watching! I have a smaller version of this bag coming soon!

[@deborahperez2487]

this bag is just fabulous! Your work is extraordinary! thank you for this amazing pattern and demonstration!

[@CheleBoxy]

This would be a perfect work bag!!! Been looking for a pattern just like this!!

[@stephaniebooth9631]

Thank you so much Chris! This is amazing. I will make sure to post pics as soon as I get mine made in the FB group :)

[@simplyclassic]

Sounds great! I can't wait to see it. Sorry it took so long to post, it gave us lots of troubles!

[@stephaniebooth9631]

No worries at all! I got everything cut out tonight, tomorrow after work, I will get my stabilizers on, and then hopefully I can get it sewn up this weekend :).

[@lefty4180]

That is one amazing tote!!! Thank you for your generosity and a great tutorial ❤❤❤

[@simplyclassic]

You are so welcome! Thank you for watching!

[@cynthiacatnott9012]

A hearty thank you to you ! I have done a similar pattern with side accents. that became a hit.Love this one also.This is a must -do.Love the accent.

[@donnababylon]

what a great bag! looks like it was fun to engineer. I just love watching you sew. LOL

[@simplyclassic]

Thank you so much for watching!

[@CathyDavies-nr1cd]

Loving your tutorial. I am currently following along!😊

[@elite0116]

Thank you so much for this tutorial and free pattern? I am making one for me for an out of state trip next month.

[@dturk1385]

Love this bag! Great video!!!! Thank you!❤😊

[@caitlincarr115]

I'm so glad I came across your video!

[@jackies2805]

Love your bag! 💗

[@duckypam]

Thank you for this! Now to make time to sew one up

[@aileenhindley5964]

Thank you for your generosity.

[@bettydarling2445]

Love this bag! I have been looking for a video that shows how to construct the sides with outside binding. I need that technique in my toolkit as I love to make totes. I also always need review on plackets. Love those colors too

[@simplyclassic]

Thanks for watching Betty!

[@Karen626]

LOVE it! Thanks so much for the pattern AND the tutorial!!!!

[@shariz2998]

Beautiful bag!

[@cutflower36]

thank you, been searching for a good the tote pattern.

[@simplyclassic]

You’re welcome 😊

[@LeJean_Dennis]

Great job!

[@rebekahkui]

Love this Chris… but can we talk about that tote to your left on the table ?! 😊 That looks like a fine bag! 😆😆 lol

[@simplyclassic]

So……..it was a hack I was working on but there were so many pattern changes I think it needs to be a new pattern.

[@rebekahkui]

@@simplyclassic well knowing you it’ll come out amazing and I’ll anxiously await that ⭐️!😍😉

[@gdedmonds2001]

Hi Just wondering is canvas an appropriate material for this project…. And your style of instructing is an attention keeper , not to slow not to fast, just phenomenal…. Thank you….. The bag is awesome……….

[@simplyclassic]

Yes, canvas should work fine but you might want to use a heavier stabilizer. Foam will work it decovil heavy.

[@jenpatterson8309]

Thank you great tutorial ❤ Between the handles you could add a strap so you can attach to your suitcase

[@simplyclassic]

Yes! Phenomenal idea!!

[@Iamlismoore]

thank you I love it, I made the mini version today in Canvas/drill lining. Will definitely try the large size in a Faux leather. Do you want sharing the measurements for the medium size version. thanks again

[@simplyclassic]

I will have to compute them and share, I will work on it as soon as I can.

[@Iamlismoore]

@@simplyclassic thank you

[@maysaabughosh372]

Never mind, I watched your video about threading your Consew

[@marielaughsloud]

love it, Thank you

[@jackies2805]

Thank you! ❤

[@sasha82596]

Thank you !!!!

[@imbethann]

First, your bags turned out amazing! Second, are you planning to try the Canvas bag? Is your inspiration bag actually a dupe itself? Wanted to find the other two color combinations (like yours) and I couldn't find any two-tone authentic bags online. What gave it away is that the inspiration bag doesn't say Marc Jacobs below 'The Tote Bag'. Either way, I'm off to try my own! Thank you for the videos!

[@simplyclassic]

Thank you for watching! A subscriber sent me the photo of the two toned and I did find it on the Marc Jacob’s site. I had never seen it before either. Definitely different and really beautiful! Good luck!

[@Craftbags33]

Love this video thank you! Was wondering I was asked to do one for a man and wanted to make a buckle instead if adding a zipper my brain cant figure this out

[@simplyclassic]

I am glad to help. Are you thinking of a flap that comes across the bag or something like a swivel clasp and D ring at the top to hold the top closed?

[@Craftbags33]

@@simplyclassic im not sure maybe a flap

[@SewFelicia]

❤❤ beautiful work. Curious why you didn’t prepare the faux rolled handles before attaching them to the bag. Same with the zipper and slip pockets on the lining before attached to the base.

[@simplyclassic]

Thank you for watching Felicia! I tried to copy the inspiration bag as closely as possible. Sometime construction methods can differ, especially for at home sewists. Our goal is to make the bag achievable for as many viewers as possible.

[@SewFelicia]

@@simplyclassic you did a beautiful job making and teaching it. I might give it a go

[@4golfing]

Love the video and the bag. But I would never be able to do those sides by hand. Wondering if I could substitute using thin strapping instead. This would be a great bag with the zippered bottom for shoes. Beautiful colours

[@simplyclassic]

That sounds like a great idea. I think it is definitely worth a try. Post it in the FB group and let us know how it is done. I feel sure that there are so many different ways to get those edges to look amazing!

[@yaminamazouz9599]

Thanks ❤❤❤❤❤

[@cafeldmann1]

You had me until the hand stitching! LOL. I definitely want to try this - I just recently made a smaller version from a different pattern, but I didn't love how it all came together at the end, so I was planning to do another one using the binding finish method. Thanks for the tutorial!

[@simplyclassic]

LOL! I knew that would get some people. I am sure there is another way to add the binding, and your bags are amazing, so please share your method when you make yours.

[@janejarvis6725]

Is there a pattern piece for the contrast for the inside pocket? That’s a perfect way to add an inside zipper pocket. 😊Love the bag.

[@simplyclassic]

The slip pocket? I cut it about 1” wider than the pocket x 1”.

[@CathyDavies-nr1cd]

Thank you for your easy to follow nice and steady tutorial for this Amazing bag. I am making it for my friend’s Mum for her birthday. I do have a quick question. What can I use for bias binding when using faux leather? Do I use strips of the accent or main faux as binding or fabric binding?? Just so I’m clear. Many thanks Catherine.

[@simplyclassic]

Hi Cathy, I used the strips of the accent faux. It is a little tricky hand sewing the binding closed, but if you take large sections of the faux with the needle it works.

[@CathyDavies-nr1cd]

I thought this was the case but just wanted to double check. Thank you for taking the time to respond to my query. 😊

[@CathyDavies-nr1cd]

I’m hoping my domestic machine will cope with the layers😅

[@sylviabrown6127]

Love It

[@LeJean_Dennis]

You are a great instructor! Thank you for your wonderful clear video teaching style and nice close-ups... What size needle are you using in your industrial with the Tex 70? I struggle knowing what size needle should go with thread on my industrial machine. Thank you for everything. Have a great day

[@simplyclassic]

Thank you for watching! I use an 18 needle and it works great.

[@LeJean_Dennis]

@@simplyclassic perfect! Thanks again.

[@TheGardenKitten]

Thank you

[@simplyclassic]

You're welcome and thank you for watching!

[@kathleenchamp3764]

❤WOW, She's a Beauty!! I can't say THANK YOU enough 😊I'm wondering if I can use.... Before I say, I know I know.. but on my budget when I started collecting what I could to make bags ( the reason I even re-learned how to sew and got a machine even tho it is a domestic😁) Ok, in wondering if I can use the faux products I purchased at the Joann. Looks like faux leather 🤷‍♀️ What do you think, if you don't mind my asking? I star ask this but my health went down hill but now I'm back up and desperately wanting to get back to it. I do have Decovil heavy and light ☺ but I am wondering about thread 😮I have a reg thread from said store Mentioned above. I enjoy your tutorials and honestly stopped watching because I wanted to join in and couldn't buuuut😁😁😁 now , now it's time to play😅 In great appreciation for what you are always sharing. Knowledge is truly a gift. THANK YOU again🤗❣

[@simplyclassic]

Thank you Kathleen! I think that the faux products from Joann are a great start. I am so glad to hear that you are going to give it a try and there is no reason why those products won't work. Make sure you use a polyester or nylon thread and the thicker, the better. I believe that they sell a Tex 27 in a cone style, maybe a Metter brand. They might advertise it as a serger thread, but it will work. I look forward to seeing your creation! Please post it in the Facbook group when you are done and don't hesitate to ask questions along the way! Happy Sewing :)

[@kathleenchamp3764]

@@simplyclassic thank you so much for the reply🤗 I do have surgery thread lots of it. Lol the lovely lady that taught me to sew data is the only thing to use😬 look is a dirty mess lolol and not great for everything a I'm learning. I'm not sure if it's a Tex 27 because they don't say. There are 2 brands per much the same. Sadly, the employees have no idea about thread and weights( I've asked lol) but I need to pop over in a bit for a piece of fabric I need to finish a quilt. So I'll certainly be looking. Is there one you might recommend if they only have cotton on a cone, which I think is the case. Thank you again.. sooo much🥰

[@simplyclassic]

Definitely don't get the cotton, not for use with faux. Look for Metter on a cone. If you can't find it, sometimes they have the heavy weight in the smaller spools, like "denim thread" or something similar. If you can't fine Metter, look for Guterman. I know that doesn't come on a cone, but they might have a section of heavy weight for it too, I just can't remember. It has been a while since I have been in a Joann and our local store is going downhill fast!

[@kathleenchamp3764]

@@simplyclassic definitely gone Down hill.. it's sad a they are the best for so many supplies. Yes I have gutermin in our sure they have heavy. I've never seen a Metler . But I'll see what I may have over looked.. Sadly not much to select from here. If I go online what would you suggest.. I'm sorry I'm hogging you time😬

[@ellaw424]

Hi, Chris. Should I interface the lining if I am using waterproof or water resistant canvas?

[@simplyclassic]

No need to do so! The WPC is stable enough and usually doesn’t do well heat as it likes to melt. Thank so much for watching!

[@terilynn5525]

Chris, love this! So we need an industrial machine in order to sew this? I do have some heavy duty machines like old Singers and Kenmores but not what you use. Thank you! Teri

[@simplyclassic]

Thank you for watching! There are a few areas that I think a non-industrial may have a hard time with. Maybe try a canvas/faux mixture?

[@lisastreet8920]

Very nice bag. Did you consider sewing the second side of the binding by stitching “in the ditch” from the first side?

[@simplyclassic]

I did and but I wasn’t super confident with it. I think mostly because it was faux and if I messed up, the faux would have had holes. But I do think it is a possibility……..

[@betsymegna6263]

Hi Chris - I love this bag. What is the thread color that you are using on the pink fabric? I want to use your vinyl and not sure what color or brand thread to use that will match. Thank you!

[@simplyclassic]

I use Amann Strongbond Nylon thread from Sunny Sewing Machines. Of course there is no color that is an exact match so I used 3135. It looks maroon on the spool, but actually matches pretty close once sewn.

[@melaniegreen1766]

Love the bag, where did you purchase the Faux leather. Is the lining Faux also?

[@simplyclassic]

The faux and linen lining are available on the Simply Classic website. www.simplyclassic.net/product-page/faux-leather-1

[@traciblack2079]

om/Goodness you are just as good and give more options for ways of doing things you just said please don’t say anything mean, i would hope nobody would i know there are ignorant people out there, but they are just unhappy ppl that’s all, ignore them and send them a 😅

[@simplyclassic]

Thank you Traci! And thanks for watching!

[@clairetrimby111]

Brilliant video and pattern😊 how would you make it smaller like 75% say....

[@simplyclassic]

Thank you for watching Claire! If you want it to be 75% of the current size, multiply that by the length and width of each piece. For instance, if I piece is 10 x 5 you will multiply 10 x 75% to get 7.5 and 5 x 75% to get 3.75 and now you will cut that piece 7.5 x 3.75 instead of 10 x 5. In the video linked in the comments, she has dimensions for a smaller size. Maybe that size will work for you? Might be worth checking out at least.

[@midgetsmommy]

I think I would rather build the strap then attach it, like we do on the Passion Flower tote.

[@simplyclassic]

Great idea!

[@jerilynbowler6321]

What type of double sided tape are you using? I can’t wait to try this bag!

[@simplyclassic]

I use the tape from Wawack. Here is a link: www.wawak.com/bag-construction/basting-tape/ Thanks for watching!

[@jerilynbowler6321]

Thanks! Your video is excellent!!!

[@Craftbags33]

Im so stuck its binding time and I can’t seem to stitch it 😢, I cannot get the hang of these stitches

[@simplyclassic]

Are you trying to hand stitch? I found that a long needle worked the best. Using a short one didn't work at all. See if that helps!

[@sasha82596]

May I ask what stitch length and thread weight you are using please?

[@simplyclassic]

Amann Tex 70 from Sunny Sewing www.wawak.com/bag-construction/basting-tape/wawak-hyperstik-super-strong-double-sided-vinylleather-basting-tape-clear/. I have a Consew machine that has lengths from 1-10. I use a 5.5 to 6 length.

[@sasha82596]

Thanks I have a Juki 1541s. Your stitches always look nice.

[@suzanneroy8706]

Could you please give me the finished measurements for this bag? It seems very big so I'd like to know the measurements before I start cutting! I'm looking for a medium size tote.

[@simplyclassic]

Yes, of course. The finished dimensions are 17.5" W x 13" T x 6" D. I just finished filming for a smaller version of this bag. It is solid in color and we use a different technique for finishing the sizes. That one is 10" W x 8" T x 4.5" D. It should be out later this week.

[@KatiFalk1]

Is there some reason why you would not just sew the pink to the black all the way along the black (obviously narrowing the tip area at the same time and THEN sew to the bag?

[@simplyclassic]

It can certainly be done that way, no problem! Great idea!

[@samanthad6666]

What materials (fabric) was used for inside and outside?

[@simplyclassic]

The faux leather I am using can be found at this link: www.simplyclassic.net/product-page/faux-leather-1 www.simplyclassic.net/product-page/faux-leather The lining can be found here: www.simplyclassic.net/product-page/100-pure-linen

[@lindadavis6193]

Is there some place we can download this awesome pattern all at the same time?

[@simplyclassic]

All of the measurements are in the video. I have also listed them below the video if it is easier to copy down that way. Nothing to download since it can all be cut from measurements. Thanks for watching!

[@lindadavis6193]

What is tape you use and type of thread? Love love this bag

[@simplyclassic]

The double sided tape is from Wawack. www.wawak.com/bag-construction/basting-tape/wawak-hyperstik-super-strong-double-sided-vinylleather-basting-tape-clear/. The thread is Amann Tex 70 bonded nylon from Sunny Sewing. www.wawak.com/bag-construction/basting-tape/wawak-hyperstik-super-strong-double-sided-vinylleather-basting-tape-clear/

[@maysaabughosh372]

Great video, thank you. What is the model of your sewing machines please, I own a domestic and I am considering an industrial. Thanks

[@simplyclassic]

I have a Consew 206RB5. I purchased it about 20 years ago. It is my understanding that they are now made in China and may not be the better choice. Check with Sunny Sewing Machines in Dallas. They are great!

[@maysaabughosh372]

@@simplyclassic thank you so much I appreciate your reply 😊

[@HausOfStitches]

What machine are you using? ❤ this is beautiful!

[@simplyclassic]

I use a Consew 205RB5. I have had it for 20 years. Thank you for watching!

[@HausOfStitches]

@@simplyclassic oh! I hear Consews are really good!

[@ginathompson3368]

Would a double fold binding foot be an option? Or would the curved bottom get wonky?

[@simplyclassic]

It is an option but I found it difficult to catch both sides of the binding, even when applying DST to hold it in place.

[@ginathompson3368]

Bummer

[@belindaleighfrazier8165]

What sewing machine do u use.

[@simplyclassic]

I use a Consew 206RB5 machine that I have had for about 20 years. I also have a Techsew cylinder arm machine that I love!

[@constancebunn194]

What kind of machine do you use? It went over those straps when you were top stitching the bottom like it was no big deal!

[@constancebunn194]

It’s quiet! And, is the walking foot built into your machine?

[@simplyclassic]

I have a Consew 206RB5 machine that I purchased about 20 years ago. And yes the walking foot is part of the machine. Thanks for watching!

[@constancebunn194]

Do you have a link in order to be “followed”??

[@simplyclassic]

@@constancebunn194 There is no pattern, all of the measurements are below the video in the comments section. I think this is what you are asking?

[@margiecastonguay517]

Where is the pattern Chris can’t find it in the description

[@simplyclassic]

All of the measurements are below the video in the comments. There is no cutting chart and no written pattern, I just give the measurements in the video and in the comment section.

[@samanthad6666]

What type of fabric is the lining?

[@simplyclassic]

It is linen, we sell it on our website. Here is a link: www.simplyclassic.net/product-page/100-pure-linen

[@samanthad6666]

Where I'm from we don't carry pure linen...can I use black out fabric it looks similar to the one u used?

[@simplyclassic]

Yes, that will probably work. It just needs to be thin so it doesn't cause the sides to get too bulky to sew. I can't wait to see it!

[@HausOfStitches]

What kind of pen I'd the silver one you're using?

[@simplyclassic]

The silver marking pen is from Springfield Leather. www.springfieldleather.com/Pen-Silver-Ball-Point

[@samanthad6666]

What is the finished size

[@simplyclassic]

It is 17.5 wide x 13 tall x 6 deep. Thanks for watching!

[@samanthad6666]

Is there a way to add a pocket for a bottle r cup

[@simplyclassic]

Yes, in this bag you certainly can because it is so large. In the video I linked in the comments, she sewed in elastic to keep her water bottle from falling over. It was a great idea!

[@samanthad6666]

I can't find it can u send me it plz

[@simplyclassic]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/eV7OoGZ-msd9g6M

[@samanthad6666]

Thank u

[@samanthad6666]

What are the finished measurements

[@simplyclassic]

Good question! It is 18"W x 13"H x 6"D.

[@samanthad6666]

Thank u

[@KatiFalk1]

Where is the pattern? Just the measurements listed here? video instructions only?

[@simplyclassic]

That is correct. No written instructions and there won’t be. All the measurements are in the comments below.

[@HausOfStitches]

Is this pattern and your fabric domestic friendly?

[@simplyclassic]

Yes and no. The handles are going to be next to impossible on a domestic machine. There is too much thickness when you have to fold them and stitch. Otherwise, you should be okay. Some domestic machines do better than others though. The Bernina’s are pretty powerful!

[@HausOfStitches]

@@simplyclassic thank you!

[@brigittefontana4869]

😉Brigitte of French.

[@angela2007march]

Lol I hate when I run out of bobbin in the middle of a project

[@simplyclassic]

Ugh! Me too😒