DIY Quilted Tote Bag Tutorial (Lined, No Pattern) 🌸 Hello Spring QAL #2, by Angela Walters on YouTube. 16 min 5 s.
- Video length
- 16 min 5 s
- Time to do it
- 2 hours
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Quilt your panel first if it is not already quilted. Layer the top, batting and backing, then stitch a grid or design across the whole piece and press it flat.
Decide the finished bag size and cut two matching rectangles from the quilted panel for the front and back. Cut two lining rectangles the same size.
Box the bottom corners: cut a square from each bottom corner of both the outer and lining pieces. The square size sets how wide the bag base will be.
Sew the side and bottom seams on the outer pieces with right sides together. Repeat for the lining, but leave a gap in the lining bottom for turning.
Make the straps by folding and pressing each strip, then topstitch along both long edges. Cut two straps the length you want for shoulder or hand carry.
Pin the strap ends to the right side of the outer bag at the top edge, matching the front and back positions. Baste them in place so they stay put.
Place the outer bag inside the lining with right sides facing. Pin and sew around the top edge, catching the straps in the seam.
Turn the bag right side out through the lining gap. Sew the gap closed, then press the top edge and topstitch around the opening.
Press the finished bag and check the straps and corners. Trim any loose threads and give the seams a final press.
Tips and common mistakes
Sew a few back-and-forth stitches over each strap end so it holds up to daily use.
Use a walking foot or reduce presser foot pressure when sewing thick quilted layers.
Clip instead of pin the bulky seams to avoid shifting.
Test the strap length with the bag on your shoulder before you sew it down.
Questions
Do I need a pattern for this tote bag?
No. You cut rectangles to the size you want, so the bag size is up to you. Just keep the outer and lining pieces the same size.
How big should the corner squares be?
A 2 to 3 inch square gives a flat, roomy base. A larger square makes a wider bottom and a shorter bag.
Can I use a pre-quilted panel?
Yes. A pre-quilted panel saves time, but you can also quilt your own fabric with batting and a backing.
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.
