How to Sew a Tote Bag - DIY Simplest and Fastest Method To Sell, by Tammy Handmade on YouTube. 4 min 28 s.
- Video length
- 4 min 28 s
- Time to do it
- 45 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Print the free tote bag pattern at 100 percent, or draw your own pieces: two outer panels, two lining panels, two strap strips and one pocket piece.
Fold the pocket piece in half with right sides together, sew around the edges leaving a small gap, then turn it right side out, press it flat and topstitch the top edge.
Pin the pocket to the right side of one outer panel, centred and a little below the top edge, then sew down both sides and across the bottom.
Place one outer panel and one lining panel right sides together and sew along the top edge. Repeat with the second pair so you have two joined pieces.
Press the seams open, then put the two pieces right sides together, matching outer to outer and lining to lining. Sew all the way around, leaving a gap in the lining.
Fold each strap strip in half lengthwise with right sides together, stitch along the long raw edge, then turn it right side out, press it and topstitch both sides.
Pin the strap ends to the top edge of the outer bag at your marked points, baste them in place, then sew across each end several times to make them strong.
Turn the bag right side out through the gap in the lining, push the lining inside, press the top edge and slip stitch the gap closed. Topstitch around the top.
Tips and common mistakes
Use medium weight cotton or canvas so the bag holds its shape when it is filled.
Backstitch at the start and end of every seam, especially where the straps meet the bag.
Trim the seam allowance at the corners before turning so they press into sharp points.
Keep your fingers clear of the needle and cut fabric on a mat with a sharp blade.
Questions
What size should the fabric pieces be?
A common size is 15 by 16 inches (38 by 41 cm) for each bag panel, with straps about 2.5 inches wide and 22 inches long. Adjust these to suit the pattern you print.
How do I stop the straps from pulling off?
Sew each strap end down with a square and a cross inside it, or stitch back and forth a few times. Strong stitching at the top edge is what keeps a heavy load safe.
Can I make this without a sewing machine?
Yes, but it takes longer. Use a backstitch by hand on all seams and a blanket stitch or tight running stitch for the straps so they hold.
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.
