Need help with tote construction!!

[Joannequilts]

(I've posted this under "Techniques" but it probably fits here better)

Here's my dilema..I'm trying to make a tote for the first time.

I have a Simplicity pattern for a small tote and it calls for fusible fleece as the interfacing.

I want to quilt the tote.

Do I use the fusible fleece in place of batting or do I add batting along with the fusible? If I add the batting where do I put it??

Also, do I quilt the front and back before I assemble it?

I'm soooo confused! This is supposed to be a Christmas present...but at this point, I'm not sure WHICH Christmas! LOL!
Please help!!!!!!

Joanne:0)

[Marilynsgrammy]

hey there Joanne,

I use fusible fleece in place of batting..... it is nice to work with when you are doing something small....when you iron it in between the two fabrics it just holds everything in place so you can quilt or sew or whatever.

I use it in my thread catchers, and even have used it in some baby quilts....

have fun,
Chriss

[CaroleJ]

Joanne, I would quilt the pieces *first*, then sew them together. Machine-quilting the tote once it is assembled does NOT sound like fun!

I am being sneaky, I found a double-sided, pre-quilted fabric to make Ma's tote. Got it cut out just a while ago; she (and everyone else) is still asleep, so she is none the wiser...heh, heh, heh.

[Oasis]

I also use fusible fleece instead of batting. I like it for table runners to. Definitely quilt the pieces before construction, I know from experience! LOL

[sadiedaisy1]

I agree with the others-fusible fleece in place of batting and quilt before assembling. I hope you'll post a picture when it's done.

[tnjacke]

Joanne,
I like a tote with good body to it, so I use Fusible Fleece on the outside panels as well as on the lining panels and the straps. This makes them stand up really nice. I find if I don't use it on the lining, the it is more flimsy and with the weight of pockets wants to sag...
I have also been known to use the fleece in the pockets too.. trial and error, just depends on what kind of look you are going for..

Definitely do all quilting on all parts before you assemble the bag..