diy tote bag tutorial+easy to sew+sewing pattern free (sewing for beginners), by DIY Today's Sewing & Embroidery on YouTube. 8 min 6 s.
- Video length
- 8 min 6 s
- Time to do it
- 1 hour
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Cut two outer panels and two lining panels, each 14 by 15 inches (36 by 38 cm). Cut two handle strips, each 3 by 22 inches (8 by 56 cm).
Fold each handle strip in half lengthwise with wrong sides together and press. Open it, fold both long raw edges in to the centre crease and press again.
Topstitch close to both long edges of each handle. Backstitch at the start and end so the stitching does not pull out.
Pin one handle to the right side of an outer panel, about 3 inches from each side edge, with the raw ends lined up with the top edge. Baste in place, then repeat with the second panel.
Place the two outer panels right sides together and sew down both sides and across the bottom with a half inch seam allowance. Backstitch at the corners.
Sew the two lining panels the same way, but leave a 4 inch gap in the middle of the bottom seam. This gap is how you turn the bag out later.
Turn the outer bag right side out and push it inside the lining, so the right sides face each other and the handles sit between the layers. Line up the side seams.
Sew all the way around the top edge with a half inch seam allowance, catching the handles as you go. Clip the seam allowance at the curves.
Pull the bag through the gap in the lining, push the lining inside and press the top edge flat. Sew the gap closed, then topstitch a quarter inch from the top edge.
Tips and common mistakes
Press every seam as you sew, because a pressed bag looks far neater than one that is only ironed at the end.
Use sewing clips instead of pins on thick canvas so the layers stay lined up and do not shift.
Sew over the handle joins twice, or in a small square with an X inside, to take the weight of heavy loads.
Change to a denim or heavy duty needle for canvas, since a light needle can bend or snap.
Questions
What fabric works best for a tote bag?
Medium weight canvas, cotton duck or a sturdy home decor cotton holds its shape and carries weight well. Quilting cotton is fine for the lining but too thin on its own for the outer bag.
How much fabric do I need for one bag?
Half a yard of 44 inch wide fabric is enough for both outer panels and both handles. You need another half yard for the lining, or use a fat quarter bundle for a patchwork look.
Can I make this bag without a sewing machine?
Yes. Sew the seams by hand with a small backstitch and a doubled thread, and press the seams well so they lie flat. It takes longer but the finished bag is just as strong.
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.
