Solids-Only Tote Challenge Inspiration & Resources

Inspiration and resources for participants in the Solids-Only Tote Challenge.

Solid Applique Magic:Fresh and stylish examples...

[source] Simple and pretty designs in solid colors  of felt.  I love that thistle! [source] OMG!  So cute, right? Check out Sukan's etsy store for lots more applique inspiration. [source] Another pillow from Sukan's etsy store. It looks a bit like hard boiled eggs to me, but I love the yellow and grey combo. [source] Check out the stitching in the tree trunk  and branches.  The tutorial shows you how  to translate a pencil sketch into applique. Hmmm. . . this looks familiar! [source] From Bric's Margherita collection. I love the color combo and stitching.

[source] Jaisalmer Tote This would look good in solids. [source] Sweet and understated. [source] Bold text makes a statement. [source] Oh Fransson is an awesome  mega-source of quilting  and applique information. Be sure to check it out! [source] designedbyjane etsy shop is full of  gorgeous felt applique.   With simple french knots and  long stitches you can add interest and  details to your solids. Keren's applique squares tutorial. Keren's applique circles tutorial. Keren's tips on reverse applique. Rikka's reverse applique tutorial. Rikka's reverse applique gallery.

Solid Patchwork Magic:
Are you ready to be inspired?

From The Purl Bee tutorial included [source] Not done in solids, but the addition of piping and lace trims, not to mention the doilies,  really adds interest to a relatively simple design. [source] Fossil Quinn Patchwork foldover clutch. Patchwork stripes are very cool. [source]  Diane von Furstenberg  Patchwork Haircalf Tote Wicked chevrons, eh? [source] Quilt by Denyse Schmidt Reminds me of a Chuck Close painting. [source] The color pallet and the quilting make this a real eye-catcher.   [source] Rectangles can be just as cool as squares.

[source] Balenciaga Handbag in  Vintage Patchwork Lambskin Monochromatic with zig-zag top-stitching. [source] Amber Gay Original Wonky patches trimmed in black. [source] Linda Suzann Designs Hand-quilted bag. Simple and lovely. [source] Linda Suzann Designs A simple square grid is "amped up" with  strategically placed accent squares. [source] 7 For All Mankind Edgemont Tote This herringbone pattern rocks! [source] This would look great in solids as well. [source] The colors, the shape, the design, the cuteness....

Free Tote Patterns and Tutorials:
More patterns than you can shake a stick at!

The Angela Shoulder bag Tutorial Tote tutorial and reverse applique lesson all-in-one! SOHO Slouch Tote tutorial Skip to my Lou has complied 10 free tote patterns.

I love this free pattern from  Warehouse Fabrics Inc. Spring Tote Tutorial The Library Tote tutorial Tipnut has compiled 16 free tote patterns. Pam, current challenge participant, Has a great tote tutorial. Keren has compiled her own bag tutorial lists in this post and this post.

Not Your Average Totes:
Thinking outside the box...

[source] Melie Bianco Ethnic Applique Vegan Tote Bag [source] DrikaB Grass Jute Basic Tote [source] Miss Sassy's Tote [source] Unique, eh? [source] Anuk Harvey Tote Not for the faint of heart!

[source] Kate Spade Tropical Jezibel Tote [source] Down Home Tote Pattern $7.50 Note the knots in the handles.  Cute! [source] lovely shape. [source] Tote by Modalu Tote+Ruffles=Cuteness! [source] Cool handles!