LEVEL UP
Portsmith - Pattern
- Unit price
- / per
Our teaching patterns are designed to help you build lifelong skills as you make.
PAPER PATTERN
- Physical Instructions Booklet
- Large-format paper Pattern
PDF PATTERN
- PDF Instructions Booklet
- Tiled, Print-at-home PDF Pattern
- Large-format PDF Pattern
- PDF Pattern included with Online Class and Bag Maker Kits; available as optional add-on with Leather + Hardware Kits
Crystal-clear fully illustrated instructions with helpful tips from Ellie, the pattern designer.
- After purchasing a PDF pattern, you will receive an email with a link to download the digital file(s).
- You can also access all previously-purchased digital goods at any time by logging into your account on our website.
- NOTE: It may not be possible to download a PDF pattern directly to your tablet or mobile device without a download app. We suggest using Adobe Acrobat in combination with a file storage service like Dropbox to download files to mobiles devices.
- Bag Dimensions: 13" H x 11" W x 5.5" D
- Heavy-duty, water-resistant waxed canvas
- Sturdy leather straps
- Strong metal rivets
- Reinforced base for extra durability
- Unique envelope base construction
- Metal D-ring to attach keys
The Portsmith Tote is a Beginner-level project that takes about 1–3 hours to complete. In addition to teaching you how to make an amazing bag, this project will also help you develop a solid foundation of bag making skills that you’ll continue to use on all kinds of bag projects for years to come. We’ve got you every step of the way.
You will learn how to:
- Sew multiple layers of heavy-duty waxed canvas on a home machine
- Construct an envelope fold boxed corner
- Attach leather straps using rivets
- Finish raw seams
- Set metal double-cap rivets
In addition to a sewing machine and some basic supplies, there are a few tools that we highly recommend for making your bag. It’s easy to add tools onto your kit.
For punching holes in fabric:
- Option 1: 3/32" Drive Punch with a Mallet on a Poly Punching + Cutting Board
- Option 2: A Tapered Tailors Awl
Download the complete supplies list so you have everything you need to start making The Portsmith Tote!
Portsmith - Pattern
- Unit price
- / per
Skill Levels
BEGINNER |
CONFIDENT BEGINNER |
Beginner projects will introduce you to the basics of bag making. You'll learn to sew heavy-duty fabric, punch holes in fabric and leather, set metal rivets, and sew your first zipper! |
Confident Beginner projects involve managing more pieces of fabric and leather. They'll teach you to add interior and exterior pockets and install new types of hardware, like snaps. |
INTERMEDIATE |
ADVANCED |
Intermediate projects involve a more in-depth making process. They'll teach you to work with a wider variety of tools and hardware techniques, like setting extra-strength tubular rivets. |
Advanced projects are for experienced stitchers ready to invest a significant amount of time and energy into becoming a bag maker. Complex construction and seriously professional results. |
The Portsmith is a minimal, workhorse of a tote that features sturdy leather straps, metal rivets, and a reinforced base. A classic everyday bag that's strong enough to carry anything you throw its way!
Portsmith Tools + Supplies List
This guide covers all the tools, materials, and supplies needed, whether you're working from a kit or from scratch.
SUGGESTED ADD-ONS
Adding product to your cart
Essentials for Making This Bag
Our teaching patterns are designed to help you build lifelong skills as you make.
PAPER PATTERN
- Physical Instructions Booklet
- Large-format paper Pattern
PDF PATTERN
- PDF Instructions Booklet
- Tiled, Print-at-home PDF Pattern
- Large-format PDF Pattern
- PDF Pattern included with Online Class and Bag Maker Kits; available as optional add-on with Leather + Hardware Kits
Crystal-clear fully illustrated instructions with helpful tips from Ellie, the pattern designer.
- After purchasing a PDF pattern, you will receive an email with a link to download the digital file(s).
- You can also access all previously-purchased digital goods at any time by logging into your account on our website.
- NOTE: It may not be possible to download a PDF pattern directly to your tablet or mobile device without a download app. We suggest using Adobe Acrobat in combination with a file storage service like Dropbox to download files to mobiles devices.
- Bag Dimensions: 13" H x 11" W x 5.5" D
- Heavy-duty, water-resistant waxed canvas
- Sturdy leather straps
- Strong metal rivets
- Reinforced base for extra durability
- Unique envelope base construction
- Metal D-ring to attach keys
The Portsmith Tote is a Beginner-level project that takes about 1–3 hours to complete. In addition to teaching you how to make an amazing bag, this project will also help you develop a solid foundation of bag making skills that you’ll continue to use on all kinds of bag projects for years to come. We’ve got you every step of the way.
You will learn how to:
- Sew multiple layers of heavy-duty waxed canvas on a home machine
- Construct an envelope fold boxed corner
- Attach leather straps using rivets
- Finish raw seams
- Set metal double-cap rivets
In addition to a sewing machine and some basic supplies, there are a few tools that we highly recommend for making your bag. It’s easy to add tools onto your kit.
For punching holes in fabric:
- Option 1: 3/32" Drive Punch with a Mallet on a Poly Punching + Cutting Board
- Option 2: A Tapered Tailors Awl
Download the complete supplies list so you have everything you need to start making The Portsmith Tote!
LEVEL UP
Zipper + Lining Expansions
Level up your Portsmith Tote by adding a zipper closure and/or lining! The zipper closure will help keep all of your things securely tucked away throughout the day. The lining adds structure and is an opportunity to add a fun print or pop of color to your bag's interior.
Essentials for Making This Bag
Essentials for Making This Bag
LEARN WITH US
Patterns designed to upskill your bag making.
At Klum House, we pride ourselves in creating patterns that are thoughtful, holistic, and easy-to-follow. We want you to feel fully-supported at every step of your making journey.
Clear Instructions
We are teachers, first and foremost, and as such we know that clear language is so important. We are dedicated to crafting simple, easy-to-follow instructions, so you can forge ahead with confidence.
Helpful Tips + Cautions
Your instructions booklet will be peppered with helpful tips, reminders, and caution moments. We know all of the most common mistakes (because we’ve made them!) and point them out so you can avoid them.
Excellent Illustrations
Our patterns are filled with helpful, technically-precise illustrations. We makers are visual learners! With 3D renderings and transparent layers, we’ll help you conceptualize every stitch, flip, and fold.
Specialty Education
Bag making is different from other types of sewing. It involves working with heavy-duty fabrics, leather, hardware, and tools you may not have encountered before. But don’t worry, our patterns break it all down.
Multiple Making Paths
Whether you choose to make from an all-inclusive maker kit, a leather + hardware kit, or “from scratch,” our patterns are designed to guide you along your chosen path to guarantee a successful make!
@sewingmystyle
"Get your sewjo busy with a Portsmith tote bag from Klum House"
@kristensews
"Says it’ll only take 1-3 hours, and that advertising is not false!! ⚡️Had the best brain break golden hour post-work sewing session 🌞"
Kasey
"I was nervous that I wouldn't be able to make this, but the online class made it so easy!"
😍 Maker Stories
"I've been a sewist for 50+ years. Klum House pattern instruction are, by far, the best I've ever used. Very clear, well written, and the images are excellent. The Tips are pretty darn great too ;)"
"Finished up another heavy duty canvas bag! I learned a lot of new sewing techniques while making the Portsmith Tote. Definitely recommend! 😄"
"I absolutely love The Porsmith Tote! It fits so much, including my big ol’ laptop, and it was a blast to work with waxed canvas for the first time."
"Oh my gosh the Portsmith Tote really is a beginner-friendly pattern! It only took me a couple of hours to make and I'll definitely be making more. It would make the perfect gift!"
THE PORTSMITH
Online Class
Learn to make your Portsmith with Ellie, the pattern's designer, from the comfort of your home sewing machine. The online class is great for visual learners and those who could use an extra boost of confidence.
FAQS
Questions about the Portsmith? We've got you covered.
Yes, you can totally make this bag on a regular home sewing machine! No heavy-duty or industrial machine required. For best results, we highly recommend working on a machine that has been well-maintained and using a new, sharp needle. Denim needles or nonstick needles (if working with waxed canvas) are our favorite!
The Portsmith Tote is a Beginner-level bag making project. The finished bag may look hella professional, but don't let that intimidate you! Even if you've never sewn before, you'll do great. Be sure you have all of the correct tools on hand, and we also highly recommend signing up for the Portsmith online class, as Ellie's video instructions are super helpful for visual learners and anyone who could use an extra post of confidence.
These are the tools and sewing supplies we recommend having on hand for the optimal Portsmith-making experience.
Sewing Supplies:
- Size 100 denim needle or nonstick needle (our favorites for sewing heavy-duty fabric & waxed canvas)
- Craft clips (for securing multiple layers of waxed canvas)
- 5" x 20" Quilting ruler (comes in handy for marking boxed corners)
- Hammer + hard surface (for setting rivets)
Tools:
The Portsmith Tote has double-cap rivets, which can be set with just a regular hammer. Optionally, you can use a double-cap rivet setter and a (non-rubber!) mallet on a hard surface, such as a slab of stone, metal anvil, or concrete floor. To make holes in fabric you’ll need a 3/32” drive punch, which is used with a mallet on a punching board. Or you can use a tapered tailor's awl to make holes in your fabric.
You can add these tools to your kit, or combined in The Drive Punch Toolkit for a discounted price!
Download the FULL TOOLS + SUPPLIES LIST
The making time for beginner projects is estimated at 1-3 hours. Having said that, each maker has their own pace and process. We recommend adding the online class for extra support and to ensure a seamless (no pun intended 😉) making experience.
We recommend using a 100 denim needle or a non-stick needle, and 2 spools of all-purpose thread to match the exterior fabrics.
The zipper closure and lining expansions are an awesome way to level up your Portsmith Tote. The zipper keeps your stuff secure, while the lining adds structure and a fun pop of color or print to the inside of your bag.
The Portsmith Tote is the ultimate teaching pattern for beginner bag makers, so it's a great project on its own. But if you're ready for a confident beginner challenge, the expansions are a perfect way to up your game.
The expansions do mean juggling two sets of instructions and tackling more advanced techniques, like installing a zipper. But with the included video-guided instructions, you've got what you need to make a tote that's 100% you.
I have nothing but high praises for the Klum House patterns. I am a 63 year old male with zero experience at sewing. I learned to sew watching Elie in her online videos and have made 3 Portsmith bags so far and will be starting on a Fremont for my wife shortly. A few mistakes made but still learning and enjoying it greatly. Her teaching style is relaxed, clear and concise. The only complaint I would have is that I would love to order a bunch of stuff but as a Canadian I can't deal with the ridiculous shipping costs. I realize that this is not their fault but maybe try offering a parcel post price instead of an expedited or priority shipping option. There is a problem when I can order from pretty well anywhere overseas for way less than ordering from just over the border. Other than that I am very satisfied with my purchases and will be ordering more patterns and video classes.
OUR PROMISE
You've got this.
Making things takes courage! For every little victory and moment of triumph, there are frustrating seam rips and cooked rivets, but there is magic to be found in showing up and trusting the process. Sometimes you have to take the leap to discover how much you're truly capable of!
OUR PROMISE
We've got you.
From sourcing the very best tools and materials to crafting crystal-clear instructions, we're committed to setting you up for success (and enjoyment!) at every step of your bag making journey. No matter your skill level, we'll meet you where you are and help you reach your bag making goals.
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Our waxed canvas is Better Cotton Initiative and organic certified.
Crystal-clear illustrated teaching patterns designed to upskill your bag making.
Durable, premium materials sourced with the highest quality in mind.
Made with care in small batches, by a woman-powered team in Portland.
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