We are so excited to announce one of our newest patterns, Tools of the Trade!
Learn more about this bag in the Introduction video below and find out what you need to make this bag in our A Closer Look video HERE.
About the pattern!
These functional carriers in two sizes are designed to store, protect, and carry oversized items such as rulers, cutting mats, sketchbooks — even computers.
Their sleek design ensures sturdy stability and makes it easy to access items inside without even opening the bag. Just lift the flap and remove the items you need.
Slip and zippered pockets on the outside are perfect for items you need quickly, such as keys or phones.
Or, lay the bag down, zip open the sides, and you’ll have full visibility and access to everything inside.
A large zippered mesh pocket as well as a padded sleeve and variety of fabric and mesh dividers keep tools and supplies organized, while maintaining visibility and easy access.
When you’re ready to go, just re-zip the sides and close the flap.
Long handles allow the bag to be carried over the shoulder or even cross-body for easy hands-free carrying.
You’ll love being able to sling the bag over your shoulder, knowing that everything inside is safe and secure.
Whether you are going to a friend’s house, attending a class or retreat, or just needing to get everything off the dining room table or out of the guest room, you will LOVE these versatile organizers.
Two functional sizes.
The small portfolio measures 14"H x 20"W x 1½" to 3¾"D when closed and will hold a 12" x 18" mat.
The large case measures 21"H x 26½"W x 1½" to 5½"D when closed and will hold an 18" x 24" cutting mat.
Both sizes are great for carrying items related to:
- Sewing/quilting
- Drawing/Art
- Office/computers/electronics
- Scrapbooking
- Other hobbyist tools
Add a carrying strap with shoulder pad to this pattern!
Tools of the Trade has fabric-covered polypro straps sized to fit over the shoulder or cross-body. If you’re looking for a little more cushioning, we recommend adding an adjustable, removable carrying strap and pad to your bag.
Other great storage ideas.
Looking for other organizational patterns?
These patterns are perfect for storing anything from rulers and mats to project pieces and tools:
- Ruler Wrap
- Pocket Packers (these fit perfectly inside the Tools of the Trade for extra organization! Shown here.)
- Project Bags 2.0
- A Place for Everything 2.0
- Quick Zip Cases
What you'll need.
Ready to get started? It’s time to gather your supplies! You can find the Supply List with all of its size and amount specifications on the back of the pattern. Or, click on the "Supply List" tab when you're viewing the pattern on our website.
To make these bags, you’ll need:
Products we recommend having on hand:
- Stiletto & Pressing Tool - great for binding and precision work!
- Mesh Color Sample Pack - perfect for auditioning and choosing mesh colors
- Add-on Video - find the coupon for this video inside the pattern when it arrives
- Wonder Clips or Pins - great for keeping pieces in place while you work
- Circle Rulers - these help with rounding corners when needed
Sew with Annie.
As with all of our new patterns, we’ve filmed a helpful video for Tools of the Trade to ease you through the more unique aspects of this pattern.
The Add-on Video™ tutorial for Tools of the Trade will help with these steps:
- An introduction to Tools of the Trade
- An overview of the project
- Attach Zippers to Side Strips
- Attach Handles to Bag Front
- Bind the Bag Front
A coupon for your Add-on Video will arrive with your physical pattern. Use that code at checkout to receive the video at no cost. You can access the video when you log in to your My Courses/Digital Library.
You will enjoy sewing along with Annie as you work on this project. Watch and rewind as much as you want!
Additional resources.
Intimidated by zippers?
Check out THESE VIDEO TUTORIALS
Not feeling 100% about sewing with mesh or fold-over elastic?
New to ByAnnie patterns?
Sew through our BYANNIE BASICS PDF PATTERNS
Frustrated with binding?
Watch the EASY DOES IT Add-on VIDEO
Find more tutorials and resources in our “All Courses!” Don’t forget to log in!
Let us know in the comments how you can imagine using a Tools of the Trade and which size excites you the most!
Before purchasing the pattern on our website, support your local quilt shop to see if they are carrying this pattern in stock! While you’re at it, ask if they’re planning any Tools of the Trade classes in the future, there’s nothing quite like sewing with friends.
For more inspiration, be sure to join our email list and follow us on social media! We’re @PatternsByAnnie on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest. We also have a fantastic Youtube channel where you can watch our recorded live streams and find project ideas. Submit your ByAnnie project photos to our Monthly Photo Contest for a chance to win a $50 ByAnnie coupon!
----Happy Stitching