What Is Two Big Totes?
Two Big Totes is a versatile bag pattern with instructions for two spacious totes — large and extra-large. The large finishes at 13-1/2 inches high by 16-1/2 inches wide by 6-1/2 inches deep. The extra-large finishes at 16 inches high by 22-1/2 inches wide by 8-1/2 inches deep.
Both sizes share the same design: wide openings that make it easy to pack and access your essentials, a variety of slip and zippered pockets inside and out to keep items organized, and sturdy over-the-shoulder handles for comfortable carrying. A reinforced base offers added durability for heavy loads, and an easy-to-install zipper closure keeps contents secure. When opened, the zipper falls flat against the tote for full access to the interior.
Why Quilters and Sewists Use It
Quilters and sewists carry a lot — fabric, patterns, notions, and projects in progress. A small project bag quickly runs out of room, especially for a retreat or class. These totes were sized for real loads, from beach days and grocery runs to weekend getaways and sewing retreats.
The pockets matter as much as the size. Slip pockets are quick for items you grab often, while zippered pockets keep smaller items contained instead of settling at the bottom. The top zipper adds security in the car or a crowded room, and the reinforced base helps the bag hold up under a heavier load.
How to Use It: Step by Step
- Choose your size. Pick large for everyday carrying and day trips, or extra-large for bulkier fabric, projects, or weekend packing.
- Read the pattern before you cut. Work through the instructions for your size so you understand how the pockets, handles, base, and zipper come together.
- Sew the pockets. Construct the slip and zippered pockets inside and out as directed, so organization is built in from the start.
- Build the body and reinforced base. Assemble the main tote following the pattern, paying attention to the base that supports heavy loads.
- Attach the handles. Add the sturdy over-the-shoulder handles securely, since they will carry the weight of the finished bag.
- Install the zipper. Follow the pattern's easy-to-install zipper steps, then test it: closed for security, and open flat for full access.
- Pack by pocket. Put frequently used items in slip pockets, small notions in zippered pockets, and bulky items in the main compartment.
An Add-on Video is available for this pattern, designed to support specific parts of the pattern and help you learn techniques. It does not replace the pattern — it enhances the sewing experience. Related paper patterns include a coupon for the value of that video.
Practical Tips for Best Results
Match the tote to the load, and move up to the extra-large size when a project is bulky rather than overfilling the large. Keep heavy items centered over the base rather than against one side. Use the same zippered pocket for the same essentials every time, so you never dig through fabric to find them. Open the zipper fully when packing — that wide, flat opening is one of the design's best features.
Care and Storage
Store the pattern with its instructions so both sizes are easy to find for your next make. Store an empty tote upright or flat in a clean, dry place so its base and handles stay in shape, and check the pockets before putting it away, since small notions can hide in slip pockets.
Project Ideas
Make the large size as an everyday or grocery tote, and the extra-large as a retreat bag for fabric, projects, and tools. Sew one for beach days, one for weekend getaways, or a matched pair for daily errands and bigger trips. With two sizes in one pattern, it is also a practical gift — choose the size that fits how the recipient carries their things.
Shop the Two Big Totes at Linda's Electric Quilters.
