Sawtooth Large Tote Quilt Pattern

The sawtooth star has been a favorite quilt block of mine for a long time. It first appeared in the late 1800s, and there’s something grounding about working with a block that’s been made and remade by so many hands over generations. I wanted to take that familiar shape and slow it down—give it space, warmth, and a modern purpose. The rich, earthy tones in this version feel cozy and timeless, the kind of colors that wear beautifully with use.

This is a structured, quilted tote designed for everyday life. It’s sturdy without being stiff, simple to piece, and satisfying to finish—an honest, useful bag that still feels special.

Skill Level

Confident Beginner

What’s Included (and why you’ll love it)

• Step-by-step instructions for making a finished large quilted tote

• Clear cutting charts and 8-at-a-time HST piecing method

• Block layout guidance for the sawtooth star motif

• Quilting and squaring instructions for tidy, accurate panels

• Strap installation steps for a polished, durable finish

• Drop-in lining instructions for a clean interior

• Printer-friendly PDF with a clean, minimal layout

• 100% original pattern

• Downloadable PDF

Design Features

• Classic sawtooth star block with a bold, graphic layout

• Structured tote with a boxed base for depth

• Reinforced strap placement for everyday use

• Clean drop-in lining with a finished top edge

• Designed to work beautifully with solids, hand-dyed fabric, or scrappy combinations

Construction & Techniques

• ¼″ seam allowance throughout

• 8-at-a-time half-square triangle construction

• Straightforward block assembly and trimming

• Quilt panels before bag assembly for easier handling

• Boxed corners for a stable base

• Professional-style tote finishing with reinforced straps and clean topstitching

Materials & Specs

• Finished Size: approximately 20″ W × 14–15″ H (height varies slightly depending on quilting and boxed corners)

• All Exshaw Quilts patterns assume 42″ usable WOF and a ¼″ seam allowance

• Written for quilting cotton

• Batting or fusible fleece options included

• Leather strap yardage and thickness recommendations provided

This is a steady, satisfying make—simple piecing, thoughtful construction, and a finish that rewards taking your time. It’s the kind of project that settles you in and leaves you with something you’ll reach for again and again.

All sales are final. If you have questions before purchasing, please reach out—I want you to feel confident in your purchase.

Thank you so much for supporting my work. It means the world to me that something I designed might find its way into your everyday life.

With warmth,
Kim

Tag your finish with #EXSHAWQUILTS and @exshaw so I can cheer you on.
This pattern is intended for personal use only.