Make a BeachMat Tote & Pillow for Summer Days!

Ready for the Beach? Not quite? Maybe the weather isn't warm enough yet, but it will be soon. Get ready for it by making my newest pattern, the  Sew 'n' Go BeachMat Tote & Pillow. This oversize quilted tote has separating zippers on each short side. Just unzip them and unfold the ends for a colorful beach mat for lazy summer days. When the mat is  zipped and folded into the tote, you can tuck the small matching pillow inside, along with your reading materials and other larger items. Use the two outside pockets for other necessities--sunglasses, lotion, cell phone-you decide! The pattern is available at my Craftsy store as a downloadable PDF.

http://www.craftsy.com/user/153303/pattern-store

You can stitch this project in an evening and head to the beach the next day! Two zippers, binding, outside pockets, and straps, and your tote/mat is finished! Straight stitching and binding make quick work of the matching pillow.

The good news? Use quilted double-faced fabric for the speediest-ever project! Or quilt your own favorite fabrics together in panels--directions are included in the pattern for both versions!

Of course, you may think of other ways to use the tote. Even if you're not heading to beach, you can use it as a sunning mat in your backyard. Or use it as a soft cover to cushion a sun chair or lounger on your deck. You could even use it as tote for class supplies, including fabrics, a small cutting mat, rulers, and other necessities.

Finished Sizes

Tote: 16-1/2” tall x 24" wide

Unfolded into a Mat: 24" x 66"

Pillow: 14" x 20"

I hope you enjoy a sunny summer wherever you are. Grab your BeachMat Tote and head for a sunny spot to read and relax. Oh, and don't forget your sunscreen! 

Happy stitching and sunning!

Barbara