The Kathy Tote is a beginner-friendly tote that looks anything but basic.
Designed for everyday use and inspired by the kind of bag you actually reach for, Kathy is roomy, structured, and comfortable to carry — without foam, hardware, or complicated techniques. The shape and polish come from smart interfacing choices and thoughtful construction, not intimidating steps.
If you've ever looked at a structured bag and thought, "I could never sew that," this pattern is for you.
$8.00 USD
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I don’t just teach what to sew — I teach how bagmaking works.
My patterns focus on the process so you can build skills, enjoy sewing, and apply what you learn to other projects too.
I also teach beginner-friendly bagmaking classes and guild workshops designed for real-world sewing and confident results.
See Workshops →
Bulky zipper ends? The fix is simple—zipper tabs. This quick beginner tip makes sewing zippers easier and your bags look store-bought.
Give your handmade bags a polished, professional touch with this easy rolled handle upgrade. Perfect for beginner bagmakers using fabric or webbing straps—no hardware needed!
I help beginner bagmakers build confidence through clear patterns, practical guidance, and real-world sewing experience.
More about Be Mandy Things →Within a day after leaving a review "Never received so cannot give it a good review. I sure would like to get it." Amanda from bemandythings.com contacted me and then sent me the missing items. Fantastic service. Thank you, thank you. A site like yours is so much appreciated and I'm sure to be dealing with you again.
Mandy's patterns are very clearly written.
Love this pattern- so straight forward I’ve already made five! Using as gifts to those hosting us; house warming; and “just because”. Definitely the most straight forward construction instructions I’ve ever followed!
Very helpful - great information
I made the large Heartfelt pouch as a present and it turned out very well. I have only ever made simple patchwork squares before so this was quite a challenge but I followed each step carefully and it was easier than I thought it would be. I made a tissue holder to match. I think the recipient was happy!
I love all 3 bag styles.
Beautiful pattern with excellent instructions for a fairly new sewer
Such a simple pattern for a cute little pouch. Instructions were comprehensive and though I’ve made a few pouches previously some of the finer points explained and made the finished pouch look so much better. Zips, the bane of my life, are really not so hard I’ve found.
This was very helpful for me.
Wonderful pouch with clear instructions and lots of amazing tips. After the holiday crazies, I am taking it slow on this one to concentrate on all the suggestions instead of typically rushing thru some projects. The visuals are terrific also especially for us “visual learners”
Looking forward to enjoying each step of the process.
Terry
Easy to follow and takes the scary out of zippers.
Pattern is very easy to follow and the results are a stunning tote bag
This was fun to make and people really love it as gifts.
