The Lucille Tote - Free Tutorial
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Last week, I made a fun quilted tote using our Favorite Tote tutorial—but I wasn’t quite done with the fast and fun makes! This week, I’m sharing another quick and satisfying project: The Lucille Tote. It features a zipper exterior pocket and a handy slip pocket on the back. This tote comes together quickly and is a great everyday bag.
So grab your favorite canvas or quilting cotton, and let’s make something fabulous!
👉 Grab the FREE Lucille Tote Pattern Here
Birch Organics – Canvas
I’ve been sewing from my stash lately, and this canvas has been sitting around for far too long—we’re talking maybe 7 years? It’s from Birch Organics, though unfortunately, I don’t have the selvage anymore. I believe it’s by Jay-Cyn Designs, as it resembles their Mod Nouveau collection quite a bit.
The top portion is a bright, solid yellow canvas, and I absolutely love how the two colors play off each other. It gives off a chic, art deco vibe!
👉 Grab the FREE Lucille Tote Pattern Here
Ruby Star Society – Add It Up
Because the outside of this tote is so bold, I wanted something playful but sophisticated for the lining. Enter Add It Up by Ruby Star Society—this print deserves to be a basics line! It's clean, crisp, and adds a subtle touch of fun without overpowering your design. I’m pretty sure the color I used is “Melon,” but don’t quote me on that.
I love how it adds warmth and contrast to the whole project.
👉 Grab the FREE Lucille Tote Pattern Here
Metal Zippers – Don’t Be Scared!
I know zippers can intimidate some quilters, but I promise—they’re easier than you think! Adding a metal zipper gives your tote a little shine and makes it feel extra special.
Quick pro tip: Don’t sew over the metal teeth. Unlike nylon zippers, metal zippers can break your needle and potentially throw off your machine’s timing. Instead, sew right up to the zipper, lift your presser foot (with your needle up), scoot the project over to the other side of the teeth, and keep going. I also like to backstitch on both sides of the zipper for added strength—but that’s just personal preference.
👉 Grab the FREE Lucille Tote Pattern Here
Stay in the Loop with Modern Textiles
Did you enjoy making the Lucille Tote? I send out a weekly newsletter full of inspiration: free patterns, shop exclusives, helpful tips, and tricks. You’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at recent client quilts and my current podcast or book recommendations.
Want to stay connected with the quilting community? Subscribe to our newsletter by clicking the Lucille Tote Pattern link below!
👉 Grab the FREE Lucille Tote Pattern Here
Longarm Quilting Services for ALL Quilters
While this particular tote didn’t need quilting, you might be a quilter or bag maker who uses quilted panels. If so, I offer professional longarm quilting services for hire—perfect for both modern quilt patterns and traditional designs.
Whether you’re wrapping up quilt, a gift project, or even looking to quilt a panel for your next bag project, I’d love to help. I now offer binding services too, so you'll get your quilt back ready to be snuggled! Just shoot me an email to learn more, or check out my Quilting Services page for all the details.
✨ My mail-in longarm quilting services are available nationwide, making it easy for you to finish your quilts without the hassle. If you are local to Central Minnesota, I'd love to meet up in person and offer in person drop off and pick up!
👉 Learn More About My Longarm Quilting Services
