Perfect Everyday Bag! DIY Easy Linen Shoulder Bag Sewing Tutorial, by Tendersmile Handmade on YouTube. 10 min 39 s.
- Video length
- 10 min 39 s
- Time to do it
- 2 hours
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Steps
- 10
What you need
Steps
Wash and press your fabric so it does not shrink after sewing. Cut the outer pieces at 85cm x 40cm and 60cm x 12cm, and the lining at 69cm x 40cm and 20cm x 32cm.
Fold the 60cm x 12cm outer strip in half lengthwise with right sides together. Sew along the long edge and turn it right side out to make the strap. Press it flat.
Fold the large outer piece in half with right sides together. Sew the two side seams, leaving the top open, to form the bag body.
Box the bottom corners by pinning across each corner at your chosen depth, about 5cm, and sewing a straight line. Trim the excess and turn the bag right side out.
Attach the magnetic snap to the center of the lining top edge, following the marks on the snap package. Add a small interfacing square behind each half for strength.
Make the inner pocket from the 20cm x 32cm lining piece. Fold it in half, sew around the edges leaving a gap, turn it, and press. Topstitch the opening closed.
Pin the pocket to the lining, centered and a few centimeters below the top edge. Sew around the sides and bottom, leaving the top open.
Pin the strap ends to the outer bag at the side seams, with the strap pointing down inside the bag. Baste in place so it stays put.
Place the outer bag inside the lining with right sides together. Sew around the top edge, leaving a 10cm gap for turning.
Turn the bag right side out through the gap. Push the lining inside, press the top edge, and topstitch around the opening to close the gap.
Tips and common mistakes
Backstitch at the start and end of every seam so the bag holds up to daily use.
Press each seam as you go, since neat pressing makes the biggest difference to a homemade bag.
Keep the sewing machine needle away from the magnetic snap and pin carefully so you do not break a needle.
Use a denim or heavy duty needle if your linen is thick, and shorten your stitch length slightly.
Questions
Can I make this bag without a magnetic snap?
Yes. You can leave the bag open, add a zipper, or sew a fabric loop and button closure instead. Just attach it before you join the lining to the outer bag.
What fabric works best for a slouchy hobo bag?
Medium weight linen, cotton canvas or a linen cotton blend gives a soft slouch while still holding shape. Avoid stiff interfacing if you want the relaxed look.
How do I get the strap length right?
Measure a bag you already like from the top edge to where it sits on your shoulder, then add seam allowance. Try the strap on before sewing it into the bag.
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.
