Your first project: a simple lined tote

A lined tote is my favorite first project because every skill in it transfers: straight stitching, backstitching, turning corners, and topstitching.

Choose a quilting cotton or canvas in a print you love. Cut two outer panels and two lining panels, sew each pair, then nest them right sides together.

Take it slow at the corners. The bag will tell you where your tension needs work, and it will still be beautiful.