Looking for a fun and useful summer sew? The Starry Tote Bag combines a bold star quilt block with practical bagmaking techniques—including slip pockets, leather handles, and my favorite pocket-binding method. In this July 4th version, I used red, white, and blue Breezeway fabrics by Maywood Studio to create a festive tote that's perfect for picnics, beach days, or backyard BBQs. Whether you're a confident quilter or a beginner bagmaker, this pattern teaches you techniques you'll use again and again.
Summer sewing season is here, and if you’ve been thinking, “I wish I could make bags like that…”—I’ve got great news. You can.
I’m sharing 5 beginner bag patterns that check all the boxes:
✔️ Confident beginner-friendly
✔️ Fast afternoon projects
✔️ Roomy enough for your summer life
✔️ "Wait, you MADE that?" kind of cute
I’ve designed these patterns because they make the perfect first step into bagmaking—or your new go-to for summer gifts and gear. Here's what I'm sewing this season (and what you should too):
Click here to get the Easy Charm Tote Pattern »
Why you'll love it:
This is the pattern that gets quilters hooked on bags. If you’ve got charm packs lying around (or scraps that can be cut to 5" squares), the Easy Charm Tote was made for you. The construction is simple, the finish is polished, and you don’t need to worry about zippers or hardware.
You’ll learn how to:
Perfect for: park days, pool outings, summer reading trips to the library
Fits: towel, sunscreen, snacks, water bottle, a paperback or two
Click here to get the Joanna Tote Pattern »
Why you'll love it:
This tote has that structured, clean look that feels store-bought—but it’s made with beginner-friendly steps that build your confidence. It features a wide base, boxed corners, and no-fuss handles, making it perfect for everyday errands.
You’ll learn how to:
Perfect for: Target runs, the farmers market, carrying kid supplies
Fits: water bottle, wallet, produce, sunglasses, even a small knitting project
Interior View, featuring 3 Slip Pockets with Binding Technique
Click here to get the Gifted Stitches Basket Pattern »
Why you'll love it:
This is the kind of gift that feels fancy but takes surprisingly little time to make. The square shape, soft structure, and handle design make it a stylish reusable gift basket that your friends and family will use long after the party’s over.
You’ll learn how to:
Perfect for: summer BBQs, birthday gifts, hostess baskets
Fill it with: chips and dip, wine + cups, s’mores fixings, or a spa night kit
Click here to get the Grapeful Tote Pattern »
Why you'll love it:
This clever bottle bag is made to safely hold a wine or sparkling lemonade bottle, but it’s also a blank canvas for your personality. Use summery fabrics, personalize with embroidery, or keep it minimalist for a chic gift option. It sews up fast but looks like something from a boutique.
You’ll learn how to:
Perfect for: beach parties, dinner invites, Fourth of July get-togethers
Fits: one standard wine bottle, sparkling cider, or glass water bottles
Click here to get the Starry Tote Pattern »
Why you'll love it:
This is a celebration of quilting meets bagmaking. The star block panel lets you show off your piecing skills while the body of the tote gives you all the functionality of a sturdy, roomy bag. My version is patriotic, but this bag works year-round with your favorite color palette.
You’ll learn how to:
Perfect for: picnics, parade-watching, quilt guild events
Fits: folded blanket, snacks, a sweatshirt, or even a beach towel
If you've ever felt intimidated by bagmaking, I see you. These patterns are your shortcut to feeling capable, creative, and proud of what you’ve made. You don’t need special tools, and you don’t need to spend days making them.
You just need a pattern that teaches you the right things in the right order—and that’s exactly what these do.
➡️ Click here to shop all bag patterns »
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It’s perfect for busy moms, quilters, and beginner sewists who want their bags to look just as good as store-bought (without the stress).
👉 Click here to join and grab your freebies now »
PS: Don’t forget to tag me @BeMandyThings when you sew your version—I seriously love cheering you on.
A beginner-friendly wine tote pattern that’s quick to sew, and gift-ready. Meet the Grapeful Tote—perfect for more than just wine!
