The block I chose for this design was originally chosen for a friend (check out the Leah Leather Bottom Tote here). The more I look at this block, the more it reminds me of a gathering—good friends and loved ones around a table which I dearly love. Clean patchwork, beautiful proportions, and a make that feels steady in the hands. It’s practical, cozy, and a whole lot special—ready for library runs, errands, or quilt guild nights.
The Gathering Tote is a weekend-friendly project with straightforward construction and confident beginner-loving techniques. The front and back feature a graphic HST layout framed with simple borders; the turned lining keeps the inside neat; boxed corners add a gentle base depth without bulk. Use favorite solids, naturally dyed fabrics, or pretty prints for a tote that slips into everyday life.
Skill Level
Confident Beginner
What’s Included (and why you’ll love it)
• Step-by-step instructions
• Clear cutting charts and an 8-at-a-time HST method
• Piecing diagrams and block layout
• Turned lining + boxed corner instructions for a clean interior
• Strap placement guidance
• 100% original pattern
• Downloadable PDF
Design Features
• Clean, graphic patchwork using beginner-friendly HSTs
• Thoughtful proportions—roomy without feeling bulky
• Works beautifully with natural fibers, hand-dyed fabric and prints
• Simple borders that frame the patchwork
• Finished dimensions: approx 15 × 15”
Construction & Techniques
• ¼″ seam allowance throughout
• 8-at-a-time HSTs, trimmed to size
• Boxed corners
• Topstitching
I always return to simple patchwork and sturdy materials when I want a project to feel like home. There’s comfort in the rhythm—piece, press, stitch—that settles the heart. The Gathering Tote is one of those makes: approachable for beginners, satisfying for seasoned sewists, and ready to carry the everyday.
All sales are final. If you have questions before purchasing, please reach out—I want you to feel confident in your purchase.
Thank you for supporting my work. It means the world to me that something I designed might be stitched into your everyday.
With warmth,
Kim
Share your finish with #GATHERINGTOTE and tag @exshaw so I can cheer you on.
This pattern is intended for personal use only.
The block I chose for this design was originally chosen for a friend (check out the Leah Leather Bottom Tote here). The more I look at this block, the more it reminds me of a gathering—good friends and loved ones around a table which I dearly love. Clean patchwork, beautiful proportions, and a make that feels steady in the hands. It’s practical, cozy, and a whole lot special—ready for library runs, errands, or quilt guild nights.
The Gathering Tote is a weekend-friendly project with straightforward construction and confident beginner-loving techniques. The front and back feature a graphic HST layout framed with simple borders; the turned lining keeps the inside neat; boxed corners add a gentle base depth without bulk. Use favorite solids, naturally dyed fabrics, or pretty prints for a tote that slips into everyday life.
Skill Level
Confident Beginner
What’s Included (and why you’ll love it)
• Step-by-step instructions
• Clear cutting charts and an 8-at-a-time HST method
• Piecing diagrams and block layout
• Turned lining + boxed corner instructions for a clean interior
• Strap placement guidance
• 100% original pattern
• Downloadable PDF
Design Features
• Clean, graphic patchwork using beginner-friendly HSTs
• Thoughtful proportions—roomy without feeling bulky
• Works beautifully with natural fibers, hand-dyed fabric and prints
• Simple borders that frame the patchwork
• Finished dimensions: approx 15 × 15”
Construction & Techniques
• ¼″ seam allowance throughout
• 8-at-a-time HSTs, trimmed to size
• Boxed corners
• Topstitching
I always return to simple patchwork and sturdy materials when I want a project to feel like home. There’s comfort in the rhythm—piece, press, stitch—that settles the heart. The Gathering Tote is one of those makes: approachable for beginners, satisfying for seasoned sewists, and ready to carry the everyday.
All sales are final. If you have questions before purchasing, please reach out—I want you to feel confident in your purchase.
Thank you for supporting my work. It means the world to me that something I designed might be stitched into your everyday.
With warmth,
Kim
Share your finish with #GATHERINGTOTE and tag @exshaw so I can cheer you on.
This pattern is intended for personal use only.
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