I decided to make a tote bag which calls for leather handles in the instructions. I found the handles which really match the fabric very well, but they came with no instructions. I can see that the oval portion of the handle ends which attach to the tote itself have little holes in them. Am I supposed to hand stitch the handles on (which would not seem very secure to me) or machine stitch using a leather needle and the holes are just a guide? Any help would be appreciated!

Sorry, I can't help you on the attachment part, but I would love to know where you found the leather handles and which pattern you are using.

I found the handles in a local quilt shop but you could probably find them online as well. They came in an assortment of sizes and colors, mine are lime green! I found the pattern in a quilt magazine...I'll have to check and get back to you with the name/issue of the magazine but I believe the pattern was called the Deco Park Bag. It's really cute and so far, very easy.

There have been several post lately on totes but one made me think of yours more than the others did. She may be able to help you think it through. http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-45216-1.htm
Good luck.

Here's the website with a picture.

http://www.shopfonsandporter.com

It's really cute and make sure to post a picture when you finish it.

Thank you :) I will try on-line because I don't recall seeing any leather straps in my local shops - I wish, lol.

I changed out a belt buckle on a thick leather belt for my step-son and I hand stitched it with buttonhole twist. I simply did in one and up the other; when I got the end I came back down one and up the other so that it basically looked like it had been machine stitched; it hasn't broke apart yet. Good luck!

I pretty much came to the conclusion that I would have to hand stitch it as you did. Maybe with heavy or upholstery thread and a little glue that works with fabric and leather won't hurt either.