Creating a Custom Tote Bag: Simple Sewing Project

Supplies You'll Need

Tote bags have become a popular, eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic bags in recent years. Not only do tote bags reduce waste, but they're also versatile, durable, and trendy. With just a few simple sewing skills, you can create your very own custom tote bag! Read on for a step-by-step guide that'll teach you how to sew a stylish, one-of-a-kind tote bag that you'll be proud to carry around.

Step 1: Cut Your Fabric

Before you get started on your sewing project, make sure you have the following items:

• Fabric (preferably a heavy-weight cotton or canvas material)
• Sewing machine
• Matching thread
• Scissors
• Ruler
• Pins
• Iron and ironing board
• Fabric pen (or a pencil)
• Sewing needle (for finishing touches)

Feel free to customize your tote bag by choosing a fabric that matches your personal style or the season. The possibilities are endless!

Step 2: Assemble the Tote Bag Body

First, you'll need to cut your fabric into the appropriate size. Typically, tote bags measure about 14 inches wide by 16 inches tall, but you can adjust these measurements if you want a larger or smaller bag. Keep in mind that you'll need to add 1 inch on each side for seam allowances.

To create the body of your tote bag, cut 2 rectangles that measure 15 inches by 17 inches.

For the straps, cut 2 strips of fabric that are 4 inches wide and around 30 inches long. Adjust the length of the straps based on your preference.

Optional: Create a Flat Bottom

Place the two large fabric rectangles with the right (=printed) sides facing each other. Pin the pieces together along the side and bottom edges, keeping a seam allowance of 1 inch.

Use your sewing machine to sew along the pinned edges, leaving the top opening of the bag unsewn.

Step 3: Create the Straps

To create a flat bottom for your tote bag, start by turning the bag inside out. At each corner, carefully fold the bottom seam so that it sits on top of the side seam, creating a triangle shape[^1^]. Use a ruler to measure 2 inches from the tip of the triangle, and draw a line with your fabric pen.

Sew along the drawn line, backstitching at the beginning and end to secure the stitch. Trim the excess fabric, leaving about 1/2 inch of seam allowance. Repeat this process for the other corner, then turn your bag right side out.

Step 4: Attach the Straps

Take one strap piece and fold it in half lengthwise with the right side facing out. Press it with an iron to create a crease. Open the strap and fold both long edges towards the crease, then press again.

Fold the strap in half one more time (along the original crease) and press to create a strap that's four layers thick. Sew along both long edges of the strap, approximately 1/8 inch from the edges.

Repeat this process with the other strap piece.

Step 5: Finish the Top Hem

With the bag still right side out, measure about 3 inches from each side seam along the top opening of the bag, and mark the spots with your fabric pen. Place one end of a strap on each mark, ensuring that the strap isn't twisted. Pin the strap ends in place.

Sew the straps onto the bag, stitching a rectangle with an X in the middle for added reinforcement[^2^]. Repeat this process with the other strap on the opposite side of the bag.

Step 6: Show Off Your Custom Tote Bag!

Turn the tote bag inside out one last time, and fold the top edge over by 1/2 inch. Press the fold with an iron, then fold it over another inch and press again. This will create a clean, finished hem around the top opening of the bag.

Sew around the top hem, about 1/8 inch from the bottom edge of the folded fabric, making sure not to sew the straps into the fold. Use a sewing needle to tidy up any loose threads.

Sources:

Now that you've completed your custom tote bag, it's time to use it! Whether you're headed to the store, the library, or the beach, your one-of-a-kind tote bag is perfect for carrying everything you need.

[^1^]: Better Homes & Gardens: How to Sew a Tote Bag with a Flat Bottom [^2^]: WikiHow: How to Make a Tote Bag