DIY Mini Tote Bag with gathers FULL tutorial + PDF Pattern Download, by DIY Crafts TV on YouTube. 15 min 30 s.
- Video length
- 15 min 30 s
- Time to do it
- 2 hours
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Steps
- 10
What you need
Steps
Print the pattern at 100 percent on A4 or US Letter paper, or draw it from the measurements in the file. Cut out the pieces for the outer bag, lining, handles and strap.
Cut the canvas and lining pieces. Fuse the spunbond interfacing to the wrong side of the canvas pieces with a warm iron to give the bag body.
Sew the gathered top. Run two rows of long basting stitches along the top edge of each outer piece, then pull the threads to create even soft folds.
Attach the D-rings. Fold small canvas tabs through the rings and stitch them firmly to the side seams of the outer bag.
Sew the outer bag with right sides together along the sides and base. Clip the corners and press the seams open.
Make the lining. Sew the lining pieces the same way, leaving a 6 to 8 cm gap in the base for turning. Add the elastic loop at one side.
Install the 17 cm zipper between the outer bag and the lining, pinning carefully and sewing close to the teeth on both sides.
Turn the bag right side out through the lining gap, push out the corners and press. Hand or machine stitch the gap closed.
Sew the top handles and the long shoulder strap. Clip the strap to the D-rings with the carabiners, or stitch the handles in place.
Press the finished bag, check all seams and trim any loose threads.
Tips and common mistakes
Sew the gathers in small sections so the folds stay even on both sides.
Use a zipper foot so your stitching stays close to the teeth without catching the lining.
Backstitch at the D-ring tabs and strap ends, since these points take the most strain.
Press each seam as you go, as it makes the small bag look much neater.
Questions
Can I make this without a printer?
Yes. The pattern file includes measurements, so you can draw the pieces on paper with a ruler and pencil.
What fabric works best for a mini tote?
Medium weight canvas holds the gathered shape well. A light cotton canvas is easier to sew for beginners.
Do I need a zipper foot?
It helps a lot for a neat zipper, but you can also baste the zipper by hand first and sew with a regular foot.
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.
