OK. after reading, and re-reading, that 10 times, I think what you're saying is that you need the equivalent of a FINISHED 17" x 12.5" quilted piece, where, when folded forming a FINISHED tube 8.5" x 12.5", the patterns go seamlessly around the tube?
Like one piece in a tessellation?
I'm not even going to ask where the bottom of the tote comes in - I'm guessing it's a separate circle that will be attached to the tube.
Are you making up the design on this piece, or is it a written pattern with blocks or very freeform?
Right? Maybe? Close?