I have the bow tucks tote pattern and made the tote but it is a Little bit large for me. Would it be better to buy the mini bow tucks pattern or could I cut the next one 2 or 3 inches smaller for everything except the handles? Has anyone did this?

I've made a regular Bow Tuck bigger than the pattern, so I don't see why you couldn't make them smaller. Maybe you could try it out first, before buying the mini.

I made the mini and think it is a great size for everyday use. More of a purse than a tote.

sent you a PM

I have made my Bow Tucks tote/purses. Two inches bigger each way. I like them better. I also have added a couple of ties each on the ends of both fabric's. I stack 3 buttons together of some of the various colors in the bags.

Read down this link for the measurements for the mini...

http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-54311-1.htm

These are fun bags to make but it takes me a good day to do one. I can't see how anyone can do them in a couple of hours. The ties alone take me a while to fold and sew.

Then there is the cutting of the fabric, ironing on the heavy duty Pellon. You are making two bags, one is the lining and the other outside. I also sew my handes 4 or more times across to make them very firm. When I sew them on the bags, I sew them 5 times on to the bag, then went I put the lining in that an another time, then the final is about a 1/2" down from the top. My bags will never fall apart, I have friends and family, that I think put bricks in their bags, so they have to be very strong.

ROFL!!!!

I had purchased a tote sized purse for vacation. I then used it for my summer bag. Got off the bus, stopped at liquor store, carried home a six-pack in it. :mrgreen:

bricks! if only you knew... :lol: :lol: