ENCIRCLE Tote is Live!
One last pattern for 2024!
I’ve been working this pattern for a while, a long while actually. It started before the BALANCEpouch and then that sweet little pattern distracted me. It originally had more of a BALANCE vibe, but has evolved since then…
So here we have it! A fab new bag pattern: the ENCIRCLE Tote!
A modern tote pattern with a circular front and back panel wrapped by a curved gusset. It is a practical bag with a clean, graphic aesthetic and an interesting method of construction making it both beautiful and a seriously enjoyable sew!
There are three sizes, Standard, Large and Oversized (oh, we do love a BIG BAG!) with zipper, strap and pocket options to play with.
The Celebratory ENCIRCLEsale is up and running now! 25% off the ENCIRCLE Tote and 20% off all other standalone patterns! We’ve added 10% off all bundle listings too; even better value than usual!
Large ENCIRCLE Tote with tote & hand straps, and front slip pocket.
A Bit About the ENCIRCLE Tote?
Closures? You can choose to make your ENCIRCLE Tote with a main zipper closure and/or a magnetic snap closure, or simply leave it with no closing mechanism for a quick sew and easy access.
Pockets? You can add an external slip pocket to the external circle motif area should you wish. Internally you can choose to add a secure zipped pocket that also creates a slip pocket. You can also add a simple, subdivided slip pocket.
Straps? The ENCIRCLE is conceived as a big, bigger or biggest tote and works great with long tote shoulder straps. Hands straps can be added to all sizes. The standard size also works as a great crossbody/shoulder bag and a number of strap options are included.
Simple perfection in this big oversized ENCIRCLE Tote made by Marja (@m3niemi)
Skill Level?
Confident Beginner / Intermediate
The ENCIRCLE Tote construction is straightforward but a little unusual as there is no side seam - just trust the tutorial and enjoy the process! The trickiest element in making the ENCIRCLE Tote is handling the curve of the front circle, but in reality the generous size of the circles make them quite easy to sew.
Zippers can be a bit daunting but you can make the ENCIRCLE Tote without them should that be a step to far for you. However, as always, my hope is that this comprehensive tutorial will empower any adventurous beginner to tackle all elements with confidence.
The best way to find loads of SLOUCHYinspo is to check out the #SLOUCHYshopper over on Instagram, but here are a few sewn up since release to give you some ideas, click on the images to go to the creator’s instagram profile!
The ENCIRCLE Tote works wonderfully with a patterned circle panel and solid gusset! I lovely this gentle version made by Es of @rootsrevealed.home during testing! Closed by a magnetic snap omitting the main zipper, but keeping the lovely big internal zipped pocket.
ENCIRCLEgiveaway?
To celebrate, as always, we’ve a few giveaways up and running! Over on Instagram a lovely bunch of testers are hosting giveaways for the next few days. In the In Complete Stitches Sew & Share Facebook group I’m hosting a giveaway too! Come join the fun!
ENCIRCLEtesting
It is a huge privilege to have such a supportive group of pattern testers helping me with each pattern. As you can see below, a host of gorgeous ENCIRCLE Totes were created during the testing process! A huge thank you to the entire testing team for all your help! Here are just a few of the amazing bags that were made!
Time to Sew?
Now comes the most nerve-wracking and exciting time for me. I always get very nervous handing my pattern over the the testers. Will they like it? Will I have made some silly mistake that causes them hassle? But now its on a bigger scale - will you lovely sewing folk enjoy the pattern? I do hope so and I cannot wait to see it come to life!
Thanks for reading this far and happy sewing!
xx Sarah
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