How To Sew Easy Tote Bag | Easy Tote Bag DIY

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of sewing an easy tote bag, perfect for beginners and sewing enthusiasts alike. With simple materials and straightforward steps, you’ll create a stylish and functional tote bag that measures 26cm in length, 24cm in height, and 15cm in depth. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you begin sewing, collect all necessary materials:

• Outer fabric: Canvas or woven canvas
• Inner fabric: Cotton
• Interfacing: M33
• Zipper: Number 5, 42cm (16½")
• Fabric measurements:
  • Upper Body: 40cm x 15cm (2x outer, 2x interfacing)
  • Lower Body: 37cm x 28cm (1x outer, 1x interfacing)
  • Gusset: 17cm x 17cm (2x outer, 2x interfacing, 2x inner)
  • Inner Body: 64cm x 40cm (2x slip pocket)
  • Handles: 2.5cm x 60cm (2x)
  • Cross strap: 2.5cm x 125cm
  • Additional hardware: 2x rings, 2x hook rings, 1x adjuster
• Sewing supplies: Thread, scissors, pins, sewing machine

Step 2: Cut the Fabric

Using the measurements collected, cut the fabric pieces as follows:

• Cut 2 pieces of outer fabric for the upper body (40cm x 15cm)
• Cut 2 pieces of interfacing for the upper body
• Cut 1 piece of outer fabric and 1 piece of interfacing for the lower body (37cm x 28cm)
• Cut 2 pieces of outer and interfacing for the gusset (17cm x 17cm)
• Cut 2 pieces of inner fabric for the gusset (17cm x 17cm)
• Cut the inner body fabric (64cm x 40cm)
• Cut 2 pieces for the handles (2.5cm x 60cm)
• Cut the cross strap (2.5cm x 125cm)

Step 3: Prepare the Zipper

• Take the zipper and pin it to the upper body fabric.
• Sew the zipper to the fabric, ensuring that the zipper pull is accessible.
• Fold the fabric over the zipper and topstitch for a clean finish.

Step 4: Assemble the Bag

1. Attach the Gusset:

   • Pin the gusset pieces to the lower body fabric.
   • Sew the gusset to the lower body, aligning edges carefully.

2. Join the Upper and Lower Bodies:

   • Pin the upper body to the lower body with the gusset in between.
   • Sew around the perimeter, ensuring all layers are secured.

3. Add the Inner Body:

   • Repeat the process with the inner body fabric and gusset.
   • Ensure that the inner body is slightly smaller to fit inside the outer bag.

Step 5: Create the Slip Pockets

• Cut two pieces of fabric (26cm x 26cm) for the slip pockets.
• Fold over the top edge and sew to create a hem.
• Attach the pockets to the inner body fabric at desired locations.

Step 6: Attach the Handles and Cross Strap

• Position the handles on the outer bag and pin them securely.
• Sew the handles in place, reinforcing the stitching for durability.
• Attach the cross strap using the rings and adjuster, ensuring it is adjustable for comfort.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully sewn an easy tote bag. Remember to check all seams for any loose threads and make adjustments if necessary. This tote bag can be used for shopping, carrying books, or as a stylish accessory. Feel free to experiment with different fabrics and designs to make it uniquely yours. Happy sewing!