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I have been on a quest for a perfect bag and may have finally achieved my goal!

I like a “do everything” tote and have made a few, with not very successful results to replace a much loved and worn out bag.

Earlier this year I bought a Fashionable Alem Tote and it was everything I wanted. Until I started commuting to work by bike. The tote was a tight fit in my pannier and was getting wrecked in the process.

In perfect timing the Fremont Tote was the October project for the #sewmystyle2018 and it was a fast sew one afternoon. I used existing fabric from previous bag making attempts.

It was the perfect size to hold my laptop for work and a few essentials while sliding nicely into the bike pannier.

So close, but I wanted it to be a little bigger and with more structure. My local fabric store, Gala Fabrics, has started carrying cork fabric and it was time to try it out.

Very happy with the results! The cork outside and hemp canvas interior gave the structure I was wanted. I added an inch to the height and used the external pocket pattern to add more internal pockets.

I lengthen the handles into shoulder straps and didn’t add the crossbody strap as I know I won’t use it.

I’m hoping it holds up to the bike pannier crush! Have you sewn with cork? How has it held up for you?