Christmas Totes and Bags

It's no surprise that many of my gifts will be given in tote bags this year. I posted last week the tutorials I used - Irene's Classic Tote and Moda Boutique Shopper .  Sew, Mama, Sew is hosting a Fiskars giveaway and bag sew-off, so here is a picture of the totes I made.  The kids gave their teachers the Boutique Shoppers before I took a picture, but I can say they were fabulous! 

This week I finished up some pencil bags and Boxy Zippered Pouches.  I adore the boxy pouches and will definitely make more in the future!  I made the black ones slightly bigger than the tutorial; my fabric pieces were 12" x 8" and I cut off 1 1/2" for the gussets. I also recommend interfacing if using lightweight fabrics.  Feel free to browse my 'Projects to Try' sidebar for more easy gift ideas and feel free to leave me more project suggestions and links in the comments. I love a good tutorial!

We'll be leaving for our Christmas vacation tonight and won't be back until Christmas Eve.  Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and blessed New Year!