I know there are so many threads on the bow tuck and I just don't have time to read all of them, so forgive me if this has been covered before. I tried to make the handles as they describe, but they are just too thick to sew through four layers. If I redo them using only two layers of fleece (1/2 the width of fleece, but the same width of fabric), will it be strong enough or will it stretch? How did you all deal with this? I was also thinking of covering a piece of cotton handle tape that you buy by the yard, but don't know if that will be strong enough either. Any suggestions will be appreciated! I want to finish this thing without alot of stress dealing with the handles. It's looking pretty good so far. And I had no trouble getting the fleece to adhere.

I cut my fleece in half and it works fine. (I use to go with mama to Brentwood and get peaches every year). Have a peach for me!

Yes, we still have lots of fruit but lots of houses now too. It's kind of sad to see the orchards disappear. Brentwood is over 50,000 people now, but still feels like a rural area. I just hope it stays that way.

I made a bow tucks and forgot to put anything in the handle it is fine just lighter. Give it a little more stitching

I didn't have any trouble with my handles ... in fact that was my favorite part of the whole bag, quilting the handles. :)

I used half the fleece on my second one and liked it much better. The handles were fine.

Thank you all for the replys. I will try today using only half the thickness of fleece in the handles.

Finished my first Bow Tuck, but left it as a tote without the ties. I am happpy with the way it turned out.

That's very pretty! Next time, if you prefer the fleece, try as others stated with 1/2 the width and sew with the walking foot. I think it's much easier to sew that way.

I did use only 1/2 the fleece in the handles and sewed 1/8 and 1/4 on each side. I have a Pfaff, so they sewed up well. I just could not handle the four thicknesses of fleece in the handles (as the pattern directed). I think next time I might try the lining without the fleece. Not sure if I need it to keep it standing up, but it would make the seams less bulky. Maybe I just had fleece that was too thick. Don't know if they sell different thicknesses or not.

You could always try 1/4 of the fleece, so there's just one thickness of it. I like to have cushioned straps on my bags - a bit more comfortable for me than no fleece at all.

I don't think they sell a thinner one.

That looks great! I love your fabrics! :thumbup: :D

Thanks...they are just the quilter's cottons from JoAn's