How To Sew The Perfect Lining Fit For Any Tote Bag Pattern, by Ginger Patch Designs on YouTube. 9 min 32 s.
- Video length
- 9 min 32 s
- Time to do it
- 45 minutes
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Steps
- 10
What you need
Steps
Sew your tote bag outer first and press it flat. Turn it right side out so you can measure the inside opening and depth.
Measure the width across the top opening and the depth from the top edge to the bottom seam. Add seam allowance to both numbers.
Cut two lining pieces the same size as the outer bag panels, or one piece folded in half if your pattern uses a single panel.
Place the lining pieces right sides together and pin the side and bottom edges. Leave a gap of about 4 inches in the bottom seam for turning.
Sew the side seams and the bottom seam with a straight stitch, backstitching at the start and end. Stop and restart around the turning gap.
Press the seams open and clip the corners diagonally, close to the stitching but not through it. This helps the corners sit flat.
Turn the outer bag wrong side out and slide the lining inside it, right sides facing. Match the side seams and pin the top edges together.
Sew around the top edge with a straight stitch, then turn the whole bag right side out through the gap in the lining.
Push the lining down into the bag, press the top edge, and topstitch around the opening if your pattern asks for it.
Hand sew or machine stitch the turning gap closed, then press the finished bag.
Tips and common mistakes
Measure the finished bag rather than trusting the pattern numbers, since seam allowances can change the size.
Clip the corners before turning so they lie flat and do not bunch inside the bag.
Use clips instead of pins on thick layers to avoid bending the needle.
Press as you go so the lining sits smoothly and the top edge stays even.
Questions
Do I need a special lining pattern?
No. You can trace the outer bag panels and add seam allowance, or measure the finished bag and cut to those numbers.
How big should the turning gap be?
About 4 inches is enough to turn most tote bags. Make it a little wider for thick fabrics.
Can I sew the lining by hand?
Yes, but a machine gives stronger seams. Hand sewing works well for closing the turning gap at the end.
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.
