Crafts: Poolside Tote #2

I knew I wanted to make a lightweight water-resistant version as well as a more structured one. I've had this water-resistant fabric for years, and Noodlehead's Poolside Tote seemed the perfect way to showcase it.

Doesn't the bag look like a LeSportsac?

I interfaced the exterior pieces with Pellon SF101 Shape-Flex, mostly because the water-resistant fabric is thin and I didn't want the lining visible through the exterior. I also added pockets on both sides of the bag to reinforce the bottom.

I went with neutral-colored straps, but would have used a vibrant cotton webbing if I had any. As it is, the straps are from one of my husband's decommissioned desert camouflage uniforms (read: sturdy and special). But I did add an extra pop of color with the facing.

A few notes about water-resistant fabric:

1. Not all water-resistant fabrics can be ironed and pinned without adverse effect; experiment with scrap fabric.
2. Use a sharp needle, and be patient.
3. Double or triple-stitch each seam; one line of stitches isn't strong enough.
4. Seams are difficult to match because the fabric slips and slides, even with pins.
5. Once a seam is sewn it cannot be removed without damaging the fabric; needle holes are permanent.
6. Fusible interfacing becomes sew-in interfacing, because water-resistant fabric is also glue-resistant.
7. When topstitching, the bobbin thread may be visible, no matter what.

I learned a lot while making this tote, and, despite the imperfections, am so very pleased with it! It'll get a lot of use at beaches, pools, and amusement/water parks!