How To Make A Tote Bag!

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  Step 1

  So to start with you obviously need to decide on your fabric.
  If it is a patterned fabric make sure you choose the placement wisely so you get the part of the design you wish on the front and the back!

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  Step 2

  Ok, so to start you need to cut 2 panels measuring 16 x 14 inch, these will be the front and back of the bag.
  You then need to cut 2 strips for the straps measuring 22 inch by around 2 inch wide.
  Lastly, as my print had a pocket in the design, I decided to cut this out and use this to make a functioning pocket later on.
  To add a pocket just cut a simple pocket shape.

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  Step 3

  For my pocket I decided to fray the edges to suit the style of the fabric.
  To do this I just used a pair of fabric scissors and scraped threads away from the edges to create a frayed edge.

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  Step 4

  I then pinned the pocket in place, in the centre of the front panel and stitched around the edges about a centimetre in from the fraying, (leaving the top of course!).

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  Step 5

  Fold the strips along the 2 inch width so the 2 right sides are facing together and the strip is now 1 inch wide.
  Then sew along one end and down the width leaving the other side open. Using a pencil or something similar, push the fabric back through.

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  Step 6

  To begin attaching the straps, you need to pin one to each panel.
  Each edge needs to be 3 inches in from the sides, and pinned facing down, like you can see in the image. Make sure there is no twists in the strap!

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  Step 7

  Then fold the top of the panel with the straps attached, over about half an inch, making a hem, this should make the handles turn the right way too.
  This then needs pinning down evenly to sew into a hem.

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  Step 8

  To sew the hem, sew along the top of the fold, around, and then along the bottom, to create a neat stitch in a rectangle shape around the hemline. To secure the handles, sew a square around the ends that attach to the hem.

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  Step 9

  Place both panels right side together and pin around the edges.
  I decided to add a little trim to give it a bit more character. To do this just place it in between the panels, facing the inside of the bag.

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  Step 10

  As you can see I have added my trim, and it is facing towards the inside of the bag.
  This then just needs sewing around the edges, 1 1/2cm in.
  Then once that is done you can turn it the right way, and you will already see your bag as a finished product!

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  Step 11

  For another little decoration I just added buttons to the strap seams. This also works well to hide any untidy stitching!

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  Step 12

  and wallahhhhh! There you have a tote bag!
  Once you finished your first one you will see how simple it is and be able to whip them up in no time!

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kristyangel · 1 project 18th May 2016

superb work

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