⭐️❤️ How To Make A 2/Two Seam Tote Bag ~ Original Magic Tote Bag ~EASY, by The Sewing Channel on YouTube. 31 min 40 s.
- Video length
- 31 min 40 s
- Time to do it
- 30 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 10
What you need
Steps
Cut two fabric rectangles the same size for the bag body. A good beginner size is 40 cm wide by 45 cm tall, which gives a roomy tote.
Place the two pieces right sides together and pin along both short side edges. Leave the top and bottom open.
Sew a straight seam down each side with a 1 cm seam allowance. Backstitch at the start and end of each seam to lock the threads.
Turn the bag right side out and press the side seams flat with a warm iron. This gives crisp edges.
Fold the top edge of the bag down about 2 cm to the wrong side and press. Repeat on the other side of the opening.
Sew along the folded top edge to make a hem, going all the way around the opening. Backstitch to finish.
Cut two fabric strips about 8 cm wide and 60 cm long for the handles. Fold each strip in half lengthwise, right sides together, and sew along the long edge.
Turn each handle tube right side out, press flat, then pin the ends inside the top hem on each side of the bag. Space them evenly.
Sew a square with an X inside it over each handle end to secure it. Go slowly through the thick layers.
Trim any loose threads, give the bag a final press and turn it right side out to check the handles sit evenly.
Tips and common mistakes
Use a denim or heavy duty needle if your fabric is thick canvas, so the machine does not skip stitches.
Backstitch at every seam start and end, or the seams will pull open with use.
Press each fold before sewing, as flat fabric feeds through the machine much more evenly.
Keep fingers clear of the needle and unplug the machine before changing the needle or bobbin.
Questions
Do I need a lining for this tote bag?
No. The two seam method uses a folded top hem, so the bag is single layer. Add a lining later if you want a sturdier bag.
What fabric works best for a tote bag?
Medium weight cotton, canvas or linen hold up well. Very thin fabric will sag, so use interfacing if your fabric is light.
How strong should the handles be?
Use two layers of fabric for each handle and sew an X box at each end. This spreads the load and stops the handle pulling off.
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.
