Tote bags are a versatile and stylish accessory that can be used for everything from carrying groceries to hauling your beach essentials. They’re also relatively easy to sew, making them a great project for beginner and experienced sewers alike.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of sewing a basic tote bag. We’ll also provide some tips for customizing your bag to make it your own.
Materials
- 1 yard of fabric for the exterior of the bag
- 1 yard of fabric for the lining of the bag (optional)
- 1/2 yard of fusible interfacing (optional)
- Sewing machine
- Thread
- Scissors
- Rotary cutter (optional)
- Ruler
- Pins
- Iron
Instructions
Cut the fabric.
- For the exterior of the bag, cut two rectangles that are 15 inches tall by 18 inches wide.
- If you’re using a lining, cut two rectangles the same size.
- If you’re using interfacing, cut two rectangles the same size as the exterior fabric rectangles.
Fuse the interfacing (optional).
- If you’re using interfacing, iron it onto the wrong side of each of the exterior fabric rectangles.
Assemble the bag.
- Place the two exterior fabric rectangles right sides together.
- Pin the sides and bottom of the bag together.
- Sew the sides and bottom of the bag using a 1/2-inch seam allowance.
Create the box corners (optional).
- To create box corners, mark 2 inches from the bottom of each side seam on the right side of the fabric.
- Cut a diagonal line from the corner of the seam allowance to the 2-inch mark.
- Open up the fabric and press the seams flat.
- Fold the raw edges of the triangle in and pin them in place.
- Top-stitch the triangle to secure it.
Attach the handles (optional).
- You can make your own handles from fabric or ribbon, or you can purchase pre-made handles.
- If you’re making your own handles, cut two strips of fabric that are 2 inches wide and the desired length.
- Fold the strips in half lengthwise and press them flat.
- Pin the handles to the right side of the bag, 2 inches from the top edge.
- Sew the handles in place.
Attach the lining (optional).
- If you’re using a lining, place the two lining rectangles right sides together.
- Pin the top edge of the lining to the top edge of the bag, right sides together.
- Sew the lining and bag together using a 1/2-inch seam allowance.
- Turn the bag right side out and press the top edge.
- Topstitch the top edge of the bag to close the gap.
Tips for customizing your tote bag
- Use different fabrics to create a unique look.
- Add pockets, appliques, or embroidery.
- Use contrasting thread for topstitching.
- Make your tote bag a different size.
- Get creative and have fun!
With a little creativity, you can sew a tote bag that is both stylish and functional. So grab your sewing machine and get started today!
I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions.
Happy sewing!
