Totes from Jean scraps

 I was given a large bags of  jeans. My current sewing mode to reduce bags on the floor and reduce stash is to make similar things all at the same time. They were all men's plain jeans in larger sizes. Most had knees ripped out and other damage. So I cut out all the best materials. I found this template (not pattern as all dimensions are given on the screen) from my favoite youtube jean bag maker EasyToSew. 

I altered the pattern a bit by imbedding the strap into the bag at the top ends. The original method had the ends folded around the strap. This method makes an easier lined bag to turn and have a good finished strap look. The only reason the bottom piece is cut is to reverse the  denim for a 2 toned look. Otherwise this bag could be made in 2 pieces plus the strap. This is also the first exact bag Ive made from her dimensions. Most of the time Im using her many well constructed details and zipper applications in my own sized bags. Especialy with upcycle you make to what you have.

Other than that I took the opportuntity to do what I've never done before like crazy quilting and rag quilting. May not be repeating those soon! The crazy quilting is just all these jeans used on both sides and different states of fading. I also themed the linings to a degree. I was given several yards of different 60s or 70s materials so used them all for the linings of these totes. I kept to using only these jeans as they were all the same weight, thickness 100% cotton and no stretch. 

For all the bags I imbedded the elastic loop for button between the layers. Sometimes I plan this ahead but if I forget or not sure of position I just unpick the stitching and top stich it in. For the one below I unpicked the pockets toadd to each side. I also reversed one side of the tote for a different look.

Cutting the rag quilt seams was hard work! I noticed they also done fray as well in the horizontal direction. I even washed this bag to improve the ragged look. (Note: I wash all used items before making projects. In part to have them all wash and dry warm and to sanitize.)

All these totes I added an inside zipper pocket to the linings. 

I looked up crazy quilt squares but I started at left side and worked to right. That had me  gaining long seams. So I ended up doing a few separate shapes to add on. I should have started in the middle and perhaps made bigger pieces.

I really love some of these linings!

Sometimes when I reuse pockets whether from jeans or a man's shirt I will cut a larger pocket arund it. I will check the sizing to fit cell phones better.