Sew a So-Cool Picnic Tote

Sew a So-Cool Picnic Tote

It’s that perfect time of year for toting food to picnics and cookouts. Whether you are planning a family outing for the day or packing the car for a road trip, this modified Weekender Tote will keep hot foods warm or chilled foods cool. Here’s how to make a personalized insulated tote. Simply modify my instructions found in Sew Simple with Rectangles & Squares by using double-quilted fabric lined with Insul-Film. In an afternoon, sew a So-Cool Picnic Tote. The large bag holds everything you’ll need and still stores flat when you are finished.

Modifying the Weekender Tote Instructions

The Weekender Tote instructions are based on a simple rectangle design, featuring double-sided quilted fabric. The dimensions for the tote are listed in the book, Sew Simple with Rectangles & Squares.

• Cut out the rectangles from the quilted fabric, using a rotary cutter, ruler, and mat.
• Assemble and attach the pocket and straps, following the instructions in the book.

Now, it’s time to modify the instructions.

• Seam the Insul-Film. The Insul-Film will not be wide enough for the Weekender Tote’s required sizes.

• Use Wonder Clips, instead of pins, to hold the Insul-Film together.

• Stitch a 1/4″ seam through the Insul-Film using a Teflon Presser Foot, which will allow the foot to slide over the film.

• Lay the Insul-Film on the inside of the bag base.
• Use Wonder Clips to hold the film in place around the outer edges.

• Baste around the bag base perimeter to secure the Insul-Film.

• Continue to follow the Weekender Tote instructions to complete the bag, making sure to use Wonder Clips when applying the zipper.

• Once the bag is finished, the lining is reflective and functional.

Watch Sewing With Nancy online 

Learn how to create the original Weekender Tote. Watch Sew Simple with Rectangles & Squares online.

Watch Sewing With Nancy on your iPad, iPod Touch, or iPhone; download the app.

The random winner of a Hot and Handy Projects book was Joyce who said, Pot holders and placemats make nice gifts. I enjoyed reading the comments about your favorite sewn kitchen accessory after last week’s blog, How To Sew a Quick Pot Holder. 
Bye for now,

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