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How to Sew a Tote Bag – Learn to Sew Series

Are you looking to dip your toes into the world of sewing? Making a tote bag is the perfect introductory project! Not only is it practical and stylish, but it also allows you to practice basic sewing skills without overwhelming complexity. In this article, we’ll guide you step by step through the process of sewing your very own tote bag. So gather your supplies, and let’s get started!

What You Will Need

Before you begin, make sure you have the following materials:

Materials

• Fabric: Choose a sturdy fabric like cotton canvas, denim, or a heavy-weight cotton. You will need about a half a metre for the outer fabric and another half for the lining if you choose to line your tote.
• Interfacing (optional): For added structure, consider using fusible interfacing.
• Sewing Machine: Ensure you have a working sewing machine, as this will speed up the process.
• Thread: Match the colour of your thread to your fabric.
• Scissors or Rotary Cutter: For cutting your fabric.
• Pins or Clips: To hold your fabric pieces together while you sew.
• Measuring Tape: To ensure you cut your fabric accurately.
• Iron: For pressing seams.

Tools

• Pattern Paper: You can create your own pattern, or use a pre-made one.
• Chalk or Fabric Marker: For marking your fabric.
• Ruler: For straight edges.

Step 1: Prepare Your Fabric

Start by washing and ironing your fabric to prevent any shrinking or distortion later on. Once dry, lay your fabric flat and measure out your pieces.

Cutting Your Fabric

Decide on the size of your tote bag. A common size is approximately 40 cm by 35 cm for the main body, with handles around 60 cm long and 5 cm wide.

Using your measuring tape and ruler, mark your fabric with chalk or a fabric marker. Cut out the following pieces:

• Two pieces for the outer body of the bag (40 cm x 35 cm each).
• Two pieces for the lining (40 cm x 35 cm each).
• Two handles (60 cm x 5 cm each).

Step 2: Assemble the Bag

Create the Body

1. Pin the Outer Fabric: Place the two outer fabric pieces right sides together, aligning the edges. Pin along the sides and bottom.

2. Sew the Outer Fabric: Using a straight stitch, sew along the pinned edges with a seam allowance of about 1 cm. Backstitch at both ends to secure your seams.

3. Box the Corners: To give your tote bag depth, pinch the bottom corners, bringing the side seams together. Measure about 5 cm from the tip and sew across to create a triangle. Repeat on the other corner.

4. Repeat for the Lining: Follow the same steps to sew your lining pieces, but leave a gap of about 10 cm at the bottom for turning later.

Making the Handles

1. Fold the Handles: Take your handle pieces and fold them in half lengthwise, right sides together. Sew along the long edge, leaving the ends open.

2. Turn the Handles: Use a turning tool or a safety pin to flip the handles right side out. Iron them flat.

Step 3: Assemble the Tote

1. Insert the Lining: Place the lining inside the outer bag, ensuring that the right sides are together. Fold the raw edges of the opening of the outer bag over the lining edge.

2. Attach the Handles: Pin the handles to the bag. For a professional finish, place the handles about 10 cm in from the side seams. Make sure they are facing down towards the bag body.

3. Sew the Top Edge: With everything in place, sew around the top edge of the bag, securing the handles and attaching the lining to the outer fabric.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

1. Turn the Bag: Pull the bag through the hole in the lining, turning it right side out.

2. Close the Lining Gap: Tuck in the raw edges of the gap in the lining and top stitch it closed.

3. Final Press: Give your tote bag a good press with the iron to remove any creases and give it that professional finish.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve now completed your very own tote bag. This project not only helps you develop your sewing skills but also gives you a useful item for everyday use. Personalise your bag with embellishments, pockets, or a fun fabric print to make it truly your own. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating something beautiful and practical—happy sewing!

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