Bag of the Week 37

Kimono Tote

This beautiful bag was designed by Nancy Shriber who specializes in sashiko quilting with a contemporary feel.  I have taken many classes from Nancy and she is one of the most gifted and inspiring teachers I know.  She has been featured in Threads magazine and lectures and teaches around the country.  This pattern, described as a tote bag inspired by a traditional Japanese Kimono, is part of her Garment Series line.  I chose a lovely watercolor-inspired fabric for my bag and accented it with contrasting silk dupioni.  The band around the center mimics an obi, and I accented it with a Chinese coin.  I also machine quilted the base fabric, following the natural color pattern of the fabric.  I made this bag for a silent auction several years ago.