DIY trending leather tote bag with purse / beginners friendly tutorial, by Dasycreatnz_bags on YouTube. 15 min 44 s.
- Video length
- 15 min 44 s
- Time to do it
- 3 hours
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Steps
- 10
What you need
Steps
Cut the body piece to 27 by 17 inches. Cut four handle strips at 29 by 1.5 inches, one base strip at 17 by 2.5 inches and one tapping strip at 34 by 1 inch.
Cut two lining pieces at 17.5 by 13 inches and two purse pieces at 6 by 4.5 inches. Keep the grain and stretch direction the same on every piece.
Fold each handle strip in half lengthwise with the right sides out and stitch along both long edges. Repeat for all four strips to make two handles.
Pin or clip the base strip to the bottom edge of the body, right sides together, and sew it in place. This gives the bag its flat, structured bottom.
Fold the body in half with right sides together and sew the two side seams. Clip the seam allowance at the base corners so the bag turns cleanly.
Attach the handles to the right side of the bag, spacing them evenly from the side seams. Sew a square with an X inside at each handle end for strength.
Sew the two lining pieces right sides together along the sides and bottom, leaving a 4 to 5 inch gap in the bottom for turning.
Place the bag inside the lining with right sides facing. Sew around the top edge, then turn the bag right side out through the gap and push the lining inside.
Fold the tapping strip over the top raw edge and stitch it down to cover the seam. Close the lining gap with a small hand or machine stitch.
Sew the two purse pieces right sides together, leave a turning gap, turn right side out and topstitch the opening. Add a snap or zip if you want.
Tips and common mistakes
Use clips instead of pins on leather so you do not leave holes in the surface.
Sew slowly with a longer stitch length and a heavy-duty needle to avoid skipped stitches.
Backstitch at every handle end, since that is where the bag takes the most strain.
Press seams on the lining only, never directly on faux leather with a hot iron.
Questions
Can I make this bag without a sewing machine?
It is possible with a strong hand stitch and a leather needle, but the handles and base need firm, even stitches. A machine gives a much cleaner result and saves time.
What leather should a beginner use?
A medium-weight faux leather or soft garment leather is easier to feed under the machine than thick veg-tan leather. Test on a scrap piece first.
How do I stop the lining from showing above the top edge?
The tapping strip covers the join between bag and lining. Sew it neatly over the top edge so the raw seam is hidden on the inside.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
