Sydney’s physical therapist suggested it might be beneficial for her to haul some heavy loads in a bag. “Drag heavy loads” to be exact. Pulling exercises help work the key core body muscles and is an exercise that is very beneficial to someone who is low-toned. So, in that vein, I put together an experimental grocery tote for Sydney so she can “help” Mama haul some heavy groceries…I am thinking like cans of tuna that aren’t too heavy and can’t get juiced or spilled.

(An apology about the light in these photos…I am still trying to figure out this camera.) This mini-grocery tote measures about 9″X10″ and is made of unbleached mid-weight cotton fabric. The lining fabric was a thrifted table cloth in green and taupe with yellow daisies. It is experimental because I did a little experimenting with applique and some free-stitching on the sides. Conclusion, we’ll see how long the applique holds up to toddler wear and tear and a tumble in the washer and dryer, and I need some more (a lot more) practice with the free motion stitching, mine looks like I was riding in an airplane during turbulence.

I would have preferred handles to be a bit longer to fit over the shoulder, but this was the fabric I had on-hand. With the flowery theme, I can certainly see this tote going to many-a-farmer’s market this spring and summer only to come home filled with juicy fruits, colorful veggies, or even a yummy cookie or two.

There are so many wonderful tote bag tutorials out there, I will not bore you with another one. Just Google “tote bag tutorial” and you’ll find a million.