Denim & Sashiko Tote

I recently made this Denim & Sashiko Tote as a way to practice sashiko. This tote comes this together quickly – the hardest part was choosing the fabric for patches!

The design is Karen Steven’s Side Handle Gusset Tote, and I can highly recommend it! In the instructions she encourages personal expression in the embroidery and patchwork. I used plain denim and cotton quilting fabric with no interfacing. I also made denim straps instead of using the suggested cotton webbing. This was the perfect canvas to practice new applique or embroidery techniques!

Have you tried sashiko yet? I used a running stitch and a cross pattern on this project. I picked up the pink sashiko thread I used from Stitched Modern.

The tote is a good project for a beginner, and is a great size for a knitting or sewing project bag. I really like the simple and efficient design. This would make a perfect gift bag for a homemade gift! Do you like making your own tote or project bags? What designs do you like to use? I hope this denim & sashiko tote will inspire you to make your own unique project or tote bag!