Easy 20-Minute Tote Bag Miarti Sewing Tips 🪡🧵✂️ 👜 #miarti #sewing #tips, by Miarti - Sewing Tips on YouTube. 2 min 29 s.
- Video length
- 2 min 29 s
- Time to do it
- 30 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Cut two main fabric pieces about 15 by 16 inches for the bag body, and two lining pieces the same size. Cut two handle strips about 4 by 22 inches.
Fold each handle strip in half lengthwise with right sides together. Sew along the long edge and one short end, then turn it right side out and press flat.
Pin the handles to the top edge of each main fabric piece, placing them about 3 inches in from the side seams. Baste them in place.
Place the two main pieces right sides together. Sew down both sides and across the bottom with a 1/2 inch seam allowance, leaving the top open.
To make the flat bottom, fold the bottom corners so the side seam lines up with the bottom seam. Mark a line about 2 inches from the point and sew across it. Trim the excess.
Repeat the side, bottom and corner steps with the two lining pieces, but leave a 4 inch gap in the lining bottom for turning.
Turn the main bag right side out and put it inside the lining, right sides together. Pin the top edges and sew all the way around.
Pull the bag through the gap in the lining. Sew the gap closed by hand or machine, then press the top edge.
Topstitch around the top edge about 1/4 inch from the seam to hold the lining in place and strengthen the handles.
Tips and common mistakes
Press each seam as you go so the bag sits flat and looks neat.
Use a denim or heavy duty needle if your fabric is thick canvas.
Backstitch at the start and end of the handle seams so they do not pull out.
Keep pins away from the needle path and remove them as you sew to avoid a broken needle.
Questions
What fabric works best for a tote bag?
Medium weight cotton, canvas or linen holds its shape well. Thin quilting cotton works but may need a lining for strength.
How do I make the bag bigger?
Add the same amount to both the width and height of your cut pieces. Keep the corner cut the same if you want a similar flat base.
Can I sew this without a machine?
Yes, use a backstitch by hand. It takes longer, maybe 1 to 2 hours, but gives a strong seam.
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.
