The Repurposing Life

Handmade Petal Pockets Tote

I love a bag with lots of storage. As a mommy of twins, I’m always in need of all different types of storage. This reversible Petal Pockets tote and purse have it. With four slip pockets, two zippered “petal” pockets on the exterior and a nice roomy interior, you can carry everything. A while back I made this tote and used it as my “pool” bag. In it I was able to carry the towels, snacks, and swim suits for all three of us.

I even lined one of the outer “petal” pockets with water-resistant “shower curtain” fabric. This pocket served to store the swim suits once they were wet, keeping everything else in the bag nice and dry. And if all that isn’t enough, the tote and the purse are both reversible. That’s like getting 2 bags in one.

You can make all three out of same matching fabrics or different coordinating fabrics. That way, it’s like having a bunch of different bags to match every outfit.

Customize Options

You can also use cotton canvas, upholstery fabric, or duck cloth. Those are all very sturdy fabrics that can withstand the heft of carrying groceries. I recommend purchasing multiple yards of fabric at one time. And then making all these bags.

If you usually purchase groceries for a whole family, buying in larger quantities is more economical and efficient. Just wait for your local fabric or craft store to have a sale on any of the fabrics mentioned above, and then manufacture your bags one at a time. Whatever works for you and your loved ones.

Pattern Availability

Concise directions and illustrations take you step-by-step through the process. The Petal Pockets tote, purse, and Cosmetic bag downloadable PDF pattern pieces and instructions are sized to print on standard letter sized paper.

I’ve recently become aware of certain copyright restrictions for disseminating this pattern and tutorial. I strive to provide my audience with help, tips, ideas, and advice that is completely free. However, in this instance, I’m unable to do so. If you’d prefer a more basic tote bag pattern and tutorial that is free, then check out my previous post on making your own reusable fabric tote.

That said, I still highly recommend visiting Cozy Nest Design’s website (or store on Etsy) and purchasing this pattern because with it you can actually make 3 different bags a multitude of times. The designer even offers the Cosmetic Bag pattern and tutorial for free on its own.

Copyright Info

© 2015 S. Gido.  All Rights Reserved.  Please use this pattern to make items for commercial sale on a small scale basis.  Design credit to Cozy Nest Design on all online listings is appreciated. No portion of this pattern may be distributed mechanically, electronically, or by any other method for commercial or personal use.

Finished Sizes

Purse: 16″ W (top), 8 ½″ (base) x 12 ½″ H x 2 ½” D
Tote: 20″ W (top), 12″ (base) x 16″ H x 4″ D
Cosmetic Bag: 9″ W x 6″ H

Feel free to leave any questions about this tutorial below. And if you do end up making your own tote, I’d love to see it. Take a pic, post it to your social media, and tag me.

Source and photo credits:
Cozy Nest Design
https://www.cozynestdesign.com/product/petal-pockets-purse-tote-cosmetic-bag-sewing-pattern/
https://www.cozynestdesign.com/product/p3507/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Cozy-Nest-Design/517023615021794
https://www.pinterest.com/cozynestdesign/
https://www.instagram.com/sarah_cozynestpatterns/
https://www.etsy.com/shop/CozyNestDesign