This pattern does not include SVG files for use on cutting machines.
This sewing pattern is ideal for ambitious beginners, or experienced sewists who want to try their first big bag. It’s firm and structured with a spacious, pocket free interior. It includes exterior zip and slip pockets for quick and easy access to your phone or keys, and closes with two magnetic snaps at the top. The base is constructed using box corners and the bag is finished with a drop-in lining. This is my first pattern to use a drop-in lining but I’ve got a great method to show you, that I think you’ll love.
The pattern calls for Decovil light stabiliser. However, many of the testers substituted this with foam or other stabilisers.
This is a PDF digital sewing pattern in English available for instant download. See the “DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS” page for details on how to download your pattern after purchase.
Acrylic Templates
Notions required:
- 11″ No.5 zipper tape & 1 zip pull
- 4 x 1 1/2″ (38mm) O-rings
- 4 x 3/4″ (18mm) Strap ends
- 2 x 3/4″ (18mm) or 1/2″ (14mm) Slim magnetic snaps
- 12 x Medium rivets (8mm post)
Fabric required:
- 2/3yd Exterior fabric (54″ width)
- 3/4yd Lining fabric, cotton or canvas (44″ width)
- 1 2/3yd Medium woven interfacing – SF101/Wovenfuse/G700 (35″ width)
- 1/3yd Fleece or batting for quilting (35″ width)
- 1/2yd Decovil light (36″ width)
- 1/3yd Peltex 71F (35″ width)
As this is an electronic product, we cannot process refunds or returns as it cannot be returned once delivered. This pattern, once purchased, is not to be shared or reproduced in any way.
Got a question? Check the FAQs page, or email us at countrycowdesigns@gmail.com
When you purchase access to Digital Products you are purchasing a non-transferable, non-exclusive right to access the information for your personal use only. You may not publish or share the digital products or your login details with anyone else. The copyright for this pattern belongs to Country Cow Designs Ltd. It is therefore illegal to reproduce or share the pattern with others, or claim it as your own design. This includes using the pattern to teach classes or for any other commercial use. If you wish to use one of our patterns to teach a class, you must contact us for consent first and each student/attendee must purchase their own personal copy of the pattern.
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SAFETY:
To make this bag you’ll need to use various tools/equipment. You should only use tools that are well maintained and that you are competent at using. I recommend reading and following the safety instructions provided by the manufacturer of each tool. This pattern does not include safety precautions for the use of tools, so you are responsible for the safe use of any tools you use. If in doubt, seek guidance from an experienced professional of the tools you are using or contact the manufacturer directly. You are responsible for ensuring that you have a safe and suitable working environment. The instructions in this pattern are suggestions only and you are responsible for ensuring that you can carry out the suggestions safely without causing injury or harm to yourself or others. You are also responsible for ensuring that your sewing machine and other equipment are capable of carrying out the suggestions. I cannot be held accountable for damage caused because the tools used are unsuitable.
Linda Wolfe Verified Owner –
This handbag pattern checks all the boxes for beauty, style, size, design, instructions and ease to sew together. Well done, Jo!
Jo Kay (Country Cow Designs) –
Thank you!
Kristine Verified Owner –
Loved sewing the Muerqo tote bag. I made it in a lovely Alice in wonderland vinyl. Easy to understand pattern.
New to Country Cow Designs but I will be making more of your patterns.
Eryl Price Verified Owner –
I have made the Muerqo with curtain fabric. love the pattern and the video tutorial, which was brilliant. Purchased a green rivet machine so first time using rivets. Jo make it all look so easy. Overall a brilliant pattern and super tutorial. Onto the Momexa and Teloujay next
Alex Boyd Verified Owner –
This was my first “proper” bag after making a few Idexa pouches. I was a bit nervous but followed the pattern and it came together beautifully – so much so that I didn’t want to give it away after making as a gift! Video tutorial is so helpful as well, I just used it for a couple of the trickier bits but everything is in there. No issues using vinyl and canvas on my domestic machine. Working on a Momexa now …
Amanda Vasconcellos –
Super fun stitch! As a beginner bag maker the pattern wasn’t hard and the YouTube video tutorial was incredibly helpful for reference if I did in fact need guidance.
Sarah Dupuis Verified Owner –
I am thrilled with the Muerqo pattern. Very clear directions with amazing photos and detailed video support. A beginner bag makers dream!
Debra Crocker Verified Owner –
The Muerqo tote pattern is surprisingly easy to make and the lining fits perfectly without being saggy. My family thought it looked professionally made. The interfacing method was a surprise but made a lot of sense. This pattern is well worth your time and effort.
Michelle –
I particularly love the style of the handles on this bag. It’s so nice to keep the bulky bits needed to attach the straps out of the top seams. Like all of Jo’s patterns, it’s written so that the lining sits perfectly inside the bag – so saggy bottoms!
Brenda Teply Verified Owner –
I made the Muerqo tote with faux leather and cotton canvas on the exterior, waterproof canvas inside. Love the design with the large O rings, very classy.
Easy-to-follow pattern; the YouTube tutorial an added bonus. Perfect size for travel. It’s going to Quebec City in July.
Tamara Verified Owner –
Absolutely love this design! One of my my favorites. Nice roomy tote and it’s so classy! I highly recommend this pattern. You will love it!
Karen Walden Verified Owner –
I recently completed the lovely Muerqo tote. I have sewn many bags and have to say that this pattern is one of the best I have seen. The pattern’s written instructions are clear and concise and her video tutorial includes hints to ease construction and accuracy. Jo’s use of the heavy-duty stabilizers in the lining make the bag sturdy and will certainly give my bag long-life sustain-ability. I highly recommend the Muerqo Tote!
Catherine Weaver Verified Owner –
This AMAZINGLY constructed tote is now my fancy handbag! I have multiple more makes planned as it allows for endless combinations of leather, vinyl, cork, cotton, canvas, etc. The drop-in lining is a perfect fit!
Clarissa Nothnagel –
A beautifully well written pattern with many hints and tips along the way. Jo has included many clear photos alongside each step to fully demonstrate what is required. As one of my first ‘real’ bag projects and using a domestic machine I found the interfacing instructions and advice a huge help too. Highly recommend giving the Muerqo Tote or any other patterns a go!
uta.horten Verified Owner –
I love these patterns with video tutorials. They are so well explained.
This one is one of my favourite bag patterns ever. A great ‘Everyday’ bag. A good beginners patten as it’s mainly straight lines to sew, but the finished bag looks so professional that it definitely gives everyone a boost to carry on sewing…