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$8.00 USD
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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.
The finished tote has that "wow" factor, but the process stays approachable and beginner-friendly.
Beginner-friendly
(Perfect if you're new to bagmaking or want a confidence-building project that still feels impressive.)
11.5"H x 18.5"W x 6"D - Roomy everyday tote with a structured base and comfortable shoulder carry
✔️ A polished tote that feels achievable
✔️ A great introduction to structured bagmaking
✔️ A confidence booster if bags have felt intimidating
🚫 No foam
🚫 No cork or faux leather
🚫 No hardware
🚫 No complicated handle construction
This listing is for a digital sewing pattern only.
No physical item will be shipped.
© 2026 Be Mandy Things. All rights reserved.
This pattern is for personal use only. Handmade items made using this pattern may be sold on a small, handmade scale. Please credit Be Mandy Things as the designer.
This pattern may not be copied, shared, reproduced, or distributed in any form, including digitally, without written permission from the designer.
The Kathy Tote pattern was well written and fun to make. I’m planning on making several more. I really like how solid and structured the layered interfacing makes the finished bag.
I don't think the bag needs the Thermolam Plus. I would have preferred just the fleece and the SF101 for stability. I also think the straps are too far apart (11 inches between the handles) and the webbing straps should have been placed inside, not outside, the markings. But I did enjoy the pattern directions very much!
Thank you for taking the time to review. I'm glad you enjoyed the pattern directions. It's super easy to modify your tote to fit your desires. Happy sewing! Amanda
I highly recommend this pattern. Easy to follow and very thorough! I’ve purchased several patterns and can’t wait to try them all!!
The pattern was great and I enjoyed sewing it. The only thing I would suggest for new sewists is to mention the stitch length that would be best for each part of the process.
Good directions.
Wonderful, easy to follow pattern. And Amanda, the shop owner, is available and answers any questions you have.
I am very happy with this pattern!
Very easy to follow and my bag turned out beautiful! Thank you!
This was a very good pattern. The directions were simple and clear. I would certainly buy a different style if available. Thank you!
I haven't made it yet, but I am very excited to make it!
Instructions were clear and complete. Bag went together reaaly well.So pleased with it
Very cute pattern, can’t wait to make it. Thank you ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pattern Is easy to follow. Arrived quickly.
Very nice large bag.. wonderful instructions
Download has the information but there is no pattern with it. Only measurements written in a list. But clearly states ”PDF Sewing Pattern” several times throughout the product page. But only after you purchase does it say no template provided. I was planning to buy other patterns but now unfortunately, won’t, And will turn to a different business that does include a printable pdf pattern/template.
Hi Monica, this is a cut-and-measure sewing pattern, meaning all pieces are provided as measurements rather than printable templates. This is clearly outlined in the product description under Pattern Details so customers can make their choice prior to purchase.
Great instructions to be successful!
Havent started yet but the pattern is very detailed so Im sure I wiil whizz through it
I haven't made it yet bur reading the pattern it looks an easy make with clear and easy to read instructions .
Bag
Very good pattern with good descriptions.
The directions are very easy to follow.
Very easy to follow
I loved this tote pattern as soon as I spotted it. I haven't made it yet but hope to soon. I love making tote bags as gifts, and they're always a big hit. My thanks to Be Mandy Things for offering it for sale.
Very in-depth pattern , clear instructions
Well illustrated
Great pattern. Thank you.
Great pattern. I’m getting ready to make it. I’ve looked it over and it looks easy to follow.
Cute bag. Can’t wait to make it!
Excellent instructions! Easy to make and love the pockets.
Love layers of interfacing for more structure and a more classier look.
YES! Buy it! Don’t hesitate or even think about it. I read it once I downloaded it, and now I keep it out on my sewing table. It’s a great resource that I constantly refer to. I have learned so much from this book and it has taken my bag making to a new level and made sewing even more enjoyable and taken away the frustration of not knowing what to do.
The pattern written instructions are very easy to follow. My only suggestion for the patterns would be a you tube video link for those of us who purchase your patterns.
I will continue to buy from Amanda, she provides excellent customer service, with very prompt responses to inquiries. I am a very happy customer!
Great pattern, very well explained and detailed pictures
My little bag turned out pretty cute
The pattern was great and I enjoyed sewing it. The only thing I would suggest for new sewists is to mention the stitch length that would be best for each part of the process.
Looks a great pattern easy to understand, spacious tote
Very well written and comprehensive pattern bundle. Thank you. I look forward to creating this pattern with my favorite fabric charm packs!
This and all Amanda’s patterns are absolutely amazing. I had not sewn for years and during the hit southern summer I decided to try my hand at my first tote was the “Kathy” tote. All my family wants one. Second was the Joanna tote, my most recent purchase. Absolutely adorable and family wants this one too. So thank you for the easy to follow directions that as a bonus includes photos. I will be purchasing more.
The pattern is written so clearly, just like Mandy was here with me! I love the details she tells you about that you can add if you want, like magnetic snaps and rivets for added security on the pockets and it’s so easy to customize pockets etc… this was my very first purse project and it wasn’t the least bit complicated or stressful, so proud of how well it turned out
Pattern is clearly written, easy to follow instructions, I used the sizes in this pattern and applied to the Joanna pattern
I love it! It is made perfectly in every way! I couldn't be happier. Thank you for deciding to sell your work
this pattern was very well written and easy to follow. Since purchasing last week I have made 4 Joanne tote bags!
This was a fun and quick little project. I even found unique fabric for the stripes: the white has the words to The Star Spangled Banner printed on it (also in white so only faintly visible) and the red has pinwheels on it!
It solved my baggy linings and explained the different interfacings. Love it!
The pattern is great! Simple clear and concise. I loved using it!
