Sewing With Border Prints—A Simple Solution

Border Print Handbag Nancy Zieman 9b 2

Sewing With Border Prints—A Simple Solution

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Border Print Handbag Nancy Zieman 9b 2When it is time to sew a new tote, choose a fabric border print and let the artistic design simplify the sewing process.
Border print fabrics are readily available and easy to fussy-cut. If you aren’t familiar with the term, fussy-cut, it means to feature a certain portion of the textile print in your sewing design. Using the Trace ‘n Create Hobo Tote Template collection, the designer upgrade is quite simple.

Supplies, fabric, and notions:

  • Pellon Peltex Interfacing
  • Fine-tip non-permanent marking pen
  • Border Print FabricNote from Nancy: Use the fabric requirements listed on the Hobo Tote pattern. Keep in mind that you may need extra yardage to center the design. The fabric from Lecien is, unfortunately, no longer available. Shop at your local fabric retailer for the newest in border prints. 
  • Trace ‘n Create Hobo Tote Bag Template

Nancy Zieman's Hobo Tote Bag Template Collection by CloverModify the Template

  • To easily fussy-cut the border print, we’ll create a full front/full back template from the provided pattern as described in the Hobo Tote: Style B.

Border Print Handbag Nancy Zieman 1

  • Lay the bag template on the interfacing. 
  • Use a non-permanent marking pen to trace around the template marking center front/back. Notice the center is not the edge of the template, but rather the marked seam allowance line shown in yellow.
Border Print Handbag Nancy Zieman 2

  • Flip the template to the left-hand side.
  • Align the center front markings and trace the left side of the bag.
  • Make two interfacing templates: one front and one back.
Border Print Handbag Nancy Zieman 3

  • Cut out the interfacing templates.
Border Print Handbag Nancy Zieman 5

  • Position each interfacing shape over the border print.
Border Print Handbag Nancy Zieman 6Note from Nancy: I decided to only showcase the  floral portion of the fabric design. Notice that the Peltex is positioned with the bag base plus the 1/4″ seam allowance on the green section. 
Border Print Handbag Nancy Zieman 6a

  • Cut the shape.
  • Fuse the interfacing to the wrong side of the fabric, following the manufacturer’s directions.
Border Print Handbag Nancy Zieman 7

  • Repeat these steps to create a bag front and bag back.
Border Print Handbag Nancy Zieman 8

  • Join the bag front and back by stitching the bottom seam.
Border Print Handbag Nancy Zieman 9From this point, the border print designer tote can be stitched following the directions for the Hobo Tote: Style B. Read more about the Hobo Tote construction on this blog post.
Border Print Handbag Nancy Zieman 9c

Watch Hobo Totes-Casual To Classic on Sewing With Nancy online.


For a chance to win a Trace ‘n Create Hobo Tote Bag Template from Clover Needlecraft, Inc., please leave a comment below sharing your plans to make a border print Hobo Tote Bag.
Nancy Zieman's Giveaway Winner
Thank you for sharing your comments, in last week’s post, regarding The Simple Simon Guide to Patchwork Quilting. The random winner of a copy of this book, compliments of Interweave Press, is Kathleen Sackett. She said: This book sounds so exciting and just what I have been looking for to improve my sewing and quilting skills.
Simple Simon Guide to Patchwork Quilting Nancy Zieman Blog
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Nancy Zieman The Blog

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93 Comments

  • Sue H
    June 14, 2016

    What a timely offer! I was just looking at my current purse and lamenting the wear ‘n’ tear that is showing. Need to make a new one and this would be perfect!

  • Carol
    June 14, 2016

    I plan to make a tote using my own border print….I’ve been playing with Sashiko embroidery and will incorporate that into a border print….wish me luck!

  • Ilana
    June 14, 2016

    This looks like a great way to make a bag.

  • Robyn
    June 14, 2016

    Love that bag! Reminds me of my garden on a sunny day. Would be sew fun to make and use the bag. Thanks for the opportunity!!

  • Susan Spiers
    June 14, 2016

    I love this idea! I have a lot of border prints that this would be fabulous in-great giveaway-thanks Susan

  • Naomi
    June 14, 2016

    Beautiful tote. I have some beautiful border fabric in mind to make this tote

  • Carrie Diamont
    June 14, 2016

    What a beautiful bag and a great reminder that these templates are so easy to use! Now that it’s summer I need a beach tote, it looks like view b, made a bit bigger would be a great tote!
    Thanks for the inspiration Nancy!

  • Debbie Wetzel
    June 14, 2016

    What a beautiful bag! I would love to make two similar bags…one for my sister and one for me!

  • Dawn
    June 14, 2016

    This looks like a great idea for a one of a kind bag. Thanks for sharing!

  • BevM
    June 14, 2016

    I would be thrilled to win the drawing for the Hobo Bag Template, because I keep buying purse fabrics, but never get around to sewing them!

  • Annette
    June 14, 2016

    I have a beautiful border print that is just waiting for a project. Can’t wait to try.

  • E. Ann
    June 14, 2016

    Yes I love totes and want to learn to make my own. This book would be a great resource and starting point. Thanks for more inspiration!!!!

  • Kitty
    June 14, 2016

    One of my favorite items to sew are basic totes and bags. The trace and create hobo bag looks to be a great place to learn more advance skills. I think totes / bags make wonderful gifts and are usually a quick project. I am beginning my sewing journey and it is so much fun and rewarding.

  • Rebecca Shumard
    June 14, 2016

    I have been planing to make a new purse with a different Nancy Z. template. I love the beautiful green border print. Some of the flowers could be embelished with embroidery or beads.

  • Helen Grantham
    June 14, 2016

    I would love to have and use the Hobo Bag template set. It looks so easy to use. I have the perfect fabric in mind for a new bag. Thank you for sharing your ideas.

  • Mary Jo Barclay
    June 14, 2016

    I have never made a hand bag but would love to give it a try. Thank you for the offer. Mary Jo Barclay

  • maria elena blecha
    June 14, 2016

    Perfect timing!!! I was organizing my fabric and found perfect fab for a bag, definitely need to win!!!!! Thanks for the inspiration

  • Marty
    June 14, 2016

    I’ve only used border prints on aprons so liked the tips for cutting with a temolate to make other things.

  • Helen Owen
    June 14, 2016

    Love the look of the border print bag – I will have to try this!

  • Diana Smith
    June 14, 2016

    I love this pattern idea. I have a beautiful clear navy with sunflowers on it. I think it would make up beautiful in this. I was looking for something special to use it with. Thanks for the great idea.

  • Karen
    June 14, 2016

    I love this idea. I have never had the courage to make a bag, but this looks so fun I’m just going to go for it 🙂

  • Carol
    June 14, 2016

    Oh my, I never thought of using borders prints for a tote. What a great idea! The tote is so pretty. I have a couple of border prints in my stash, that I will look at tonight and see how they might work, or a trip to the quilt shop is in order. The tote pattern is very classy looking – love it! On my list of to do now!

  • Louise
    June 14, 2016

    Love the look of this bag, the simplicity and style. Will have to make one of these for sure, well, actually, I will have to make two, one for me, one for my sister, her name is Nancy too! She always gets one of whatever I make!! Love to surprise her in the mail!!

  • Christine Hurt
    June 14, 2016

    I love totes and switching to use different ones. I was just thinking I need a new project and would love to win. Thank you for your offer and all your sewing videos and tips!

  • Pam Hopp
    June 14, 2016

    I have had a lovely home dec border print in my stash for years just waiting for the perfect project—this is it! Thank you for the inspiration.

  • Joyce Hill
    June 14, 2016

    I’d love to use a border print to make a Hobo Print Bag.
    Thanks for the opportunity to win.

  • Jeanne Evans
    June 14, 2016

    I have a print I bought because I just had to have it. You know how we are. This pattern would be great for that. Thank you.

  • Cyndi
    June 14, 2016

    Thank you for sharing another great idea!! I will need to search for a border print! Thank you for the give away!

  • Elaine R
    June 14, 2016

    Love the idea of a border print for the bag and I have border prints and the need for a new tote!

  • Madeline
    June 14, 2016

    I have several boarder prints I couldn’t live with out. This is a fantastic idea to use them to match the outfit.

  • Elaine
    June 14, 2016

    I love border prints but feel too short to wear them. This would be a great way for me rouse them!

  • glima
    June 14, 2016

    I have a batik print border that would be perfect for this project!

  • Mary B
    June 14, 2016

    I, too, have a pretty border print in my stash that would make a really nice tote!!

  • Becky H
    June 14, 2016

    I love this pattern. I plan on updating the pattern for hidden zipper on the outside & insides. Love the look of the pattern in the email!

  • Laurie
    June 14, 2016

    I am retired, and have happily returned to some hobbies I didn’t have time for while working. I’ve been looking for some fun and fairly easy sewing projects, and this one hits a home run! I’d like to make a border print bag for myself, and other styles for my friends and family. The possibilities are endless!

  • Pat
    June 14, 2016

    What a wonderfully easy way to create a one of a kind tote bag. Can’t wait to try this technique. Thanks for this chance to win.

  • Carol
    June 14, 2016

    I would love to win. The summer bag that I am using is looking pretty tired. I am fabric shopping for the perfect print.

  • Caroline S
    June 14, 2016

    That is so cool and clever! Scary, but cool to make…

  • Ruth L
    June 14, 2016

    I’ve watched you make bags on your TV program and have always wanted to try your templates! I have a fun border print in my stash just waiting for the perfect project – this would be a match made in heaven! Great summer fun!

  • Mary Deeter
    June 14, 2016

    Border prints always call to me. This looks like a great bag to make. I have made 2 other purses that were much more complex. I like the way this finishes!! Thanks for the chance to win.

  • Janine R
    June 14, 2016

    I never thought to use a border print for a handbag, but I love the one shown here. Thanks for the idea, Nancy.

  • Peggy V
    June 14, 2016

    I have the perfect border print that I purchased at Sewing Weekend. This is the perfect project for that print!! Thank you for the the opportunity to win the Hobo template!!!

  • Becky M
    June 14, 2016

    What a great way to use all the beautiful border prints in my stash! Thank you Nancy for all your wonderful techniques, tips, and templates!

  • Donna Telley
    June 14, 2016

    Another inspiration from Nancy. I can’t wait to find the perfect pattern and have my own masterpiece. Thank you for letting us play to win!

  • Emily
    June 14, 2016

    This offer is fantastic. I was shopping yesterday for a handbag and after three stores could not find one I liked. I would love to make my own with this template.

  • Bonnye
    June 14, 2016

    I love border prints but never know what to do with them. The bag is perfect. Thanks for your good ideas.

  • Tess
    June 14, 2016

    Have seen Nancy use her bag templates and they look oh so easy to use. I LOVE the idea of using border prints for a purse. I have a patriotic border print that would look wonderful in a bag. Thanks for the great idea!!

  • Karol
    June 14, 2016

    I have only used a border print a couple times. This looks like the perfect place to use one

  • Myra U.
    June 14, 2016

    I have some Jinny Beyer RJR border prints that are in dark colors. I plan to use these to make myself and my three girls (dd’s and ddil) a tote for Christmas. I’m pretty slow, but these look like they would be fast, even for me!

  • Nataly
    June 14, 2016

    Love those kits, you can use it over an over again. A lots of possibilities. Will love to make one with border ballerina for little girl dance bag.

  • Dawn C Walton
    June 14, 2016

    The trace & create hobo handbag would be great to try.
    I would love to win the template/ All your projects are great
    I love your TV show.
    Dawn ;

  • Virginia
    June 14, 2016

    Must add “me, too” for I have had a wonderful border print that I have saved for something special and this tote would be worthy of the fabric. Great idea for use of fabric!

  • Anne Z.
    June 14, 2016

    THanks for the great idea. I love working with border prints, as the fabric does the work and I get the credit!!!

  • Claudia Orozco
    June 14, 2016

    Thinking this would be a good gift for my son’s teacher!!

  • Kay
    June 14, 2016

    What a great idea. Love border prints but never thought of a tote bag!

  • Helen
    June 14, 2016

    I have been saving some “special” border fabric and now I know how I will use it. Had never thought about a tote bag.
    Thanks Nancy.

  • Mary
    June 14, 2016

    My daughters will love these.

  • Deanna McDermott
    June 14, 2016

    I have just the right fabric for this project. It’s left over from a quilt border just waiting to show off on this cute bag.

  • Edna Marks
    June 14, 2016

    I love working with border prints, this is another great idea for me to try! Love it!

  • Carole Haas
    June 14, 2016

    I have watched your shows on TV for many years, but my PBS station stopped carrying all sewing and craft shows. So thankfully I am able to continue watching you via my tablet. Thanks for your dedication in bringing us quality shows these many years! I would love to win your trace ‘n create hobo bag template.

  • Gail Beam
    June 14, 2016

    I have only used border prints when making the crib bed skirts for my grandchildren’s cribs many(lol) years ago. I love this idea of using border prints for tote bags!

  • Carol
    June 14, 2016

    I would love to surprise everybody when I wear this really attractive bag and then be able to say, “Oh, I made it !” I can see a few mouths drop open with disbelief!

  • Elaine
    June 14, 2016

    I believe I have a border print in my stash that would look good as a bag or tote. Great idea.

  • Cathy R.
    June 14, 2016

    I retired the end of last year and have been sewing some simple items since I love to sew but never had the time with my full time job. I have been watching lots of your tutorials. I would love to make some of these bags for myself and as gifts.

  • Michelle Hall
    June 14, 2016

    This is such a creative way to use a border print, and it will be fun to go shopping for the right print to make this tote

  • Berenice
    June 14, 2016

    I just made a cute border print dress. I guess I need to make a matching tote now!!

  • Jody
    June 14, 2016

    I have a number of ‘border prints’ in my stash. This is an excellent way to make use of them. Thanks…

  • Renea Yarolim
    June 14, 2016

    I love to buy border prints but don’t use many of them but now I would like to try making this bag. Thanks for the great giveaway.

  • Mo L
    June 14, 2016

    Would love to try the hobo handle part of the pattern. I have used border prints for regular, small cross body type bags that have an outer pocket.

  • Starla
    June 14, 2016

    I’ve squirreled away several border prints — I’m eager to use them.

  • Kelly Sasman
    June 15, 2016

    I have some fabric I got while in China a few years ago that now I know what I want to use it for! It would be perfect for a Hobo Bag using these templates. Thanks so much for always being my inspiration!

  • Flo
    June 15, 2016

    I’ve been designing and sewing a lot of small purses and totes lately. I would enjoy making a border print bag. Thank you for the chance.

  • Judie Kapraun
    June 15, 2016

    This would be a great opportunity for my daughter, who is an art teacher, who is now is interested in sewing, to learn an easy way to make a stylish tote for herself (and me-hint hint).

  • Cherie
    June 15, 2016

    What a great idea! I have several border prints in my stash that could work well. Now if I only had the Hobo tote pattern ……

  • LindaC in AZ
    June 15, 2016

    I have just started to sew totes and could use all the help I can get.

  • Debe
    June 15, 2016

    This is a great idea. I don’t have a lot of border print, but will have to check the “stash” or even embroider a border to use for this idea.

  • Karen Payton
    June 15, 2016

    I can’t wait to search for just the right border print to make a new tote bag! I never thought of border prints in this way, what a great idea.

  • Karen Payton
    June 15, 2016

    I will definitely be looking at border prints in a whole light. What a great idea. Thanks

  • Maria H
    June 15, 2016

    This post gave me another way to use some bright border prints I have. Thank you!

  • Tina
    June 16, 2016

    I would love to find some great border prints. This is such a good idea.

  • Janice Smith
    June 16, 2016

    Wow! I absolutely LOVE the fabric you used in this tote!! It is beautiful!

  • Dorothy Mace
    June 16, 2016

    Nancy, thank you for the info. on tote bags.I plan to try the insert material you use in the bottom of bags. You help me so much with your directions.

  • Dorothy Mace
    June 16, 2016

    Your ideas & help is great in sewing totes .I plan to try some of your bags ,such as the quilted bag I saw today on Pinterest. with border prints.

  • Candice
    June 16, 2016

    I bought a border print – not realizing that’s what I’d done!! Perfect for a bag, and I have most of the other supplies already! I can’t wait to get started!! Love your posts and ideas – makes me think differently about some of my fabrics begging to be used.

  • Candice
    June 17, 2016

    Now I know why I hadn’t used the border print I’d acquired! (One of those, “oops, should have paid attention” purchases!) I have most of the materials needed and can’t wait! Your great ideas always provide me with inspiration to look at my collection with a different view. Thanks!

  • Suzanne. Tetreault
    June 18, 2016

    Great idea for border prints !

  • Peggy
    June 18, 2016

    The trace & create hobo handbag would be great to try. I never thought about using border prints. I would love to give this a whirl. Thanks so much for your continued great ideas and education.

  • Amruta
    June 19, 2016

    I have this template also for Florida bag. Is it possible to create messanger bag with any of these templates.
    Thank you

  • Mary
    June 23, 2016

    Beautiful bag and great tips. Thanks.

  • Donna
    June 24, 2016

    LOVE IT!! I would use some of my many layer cakes and fat quarters to make fun fabric bags.

  • Judith Cabaniss
    June 29, 2016

    Your trace and create templates are such a big help for those of us who want easy instructions and guaranteed results. I have your E Tablet and Paper Tablet Keepers templates. Thanks for all you do to keep us sewing.

  • Giuditta Reppi
    July 1, 2016

    I love working with your bag templates, Nancy; they make it so easy to cut out a project!

  • Diane Gregory
    January 2, 2017

    I have the perfect border print for this. Happy camper here!

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