DIY Tote Bag Tutorial (Free Bag Pattern and Video!)
Here’s a great free tote bag pattern for you to sew, along with a step-by-step video tutorial on how to make a DIY tote bag from scratch. The bag making tutorial is perfect for beginners because it also includes detailed instructions and photos to help you along the way.
The designer, Upcycle Clothing Designer, has included lots of excellent sewing tips and techniques to make this DIY tote bag easier to accomplish.
You will learn how to place a snap button and sew an adjustable buckle on the shoulder strap. You’ll also create a pocket inside the tote bag. You will also become familiar with how to sew recycled cotton canvas fabric.
And if that wasn’t enough the generous and very talented designer has included a YouTube video showing you how to make her DIY Tote Bag, which you can view below.
This DIY tote bag tutorial offers so many ways to add your own customized features like an inside pocket, snap button closures, flat bottom, lining, handles, and a shoulder strap. All you have to do is pick your favorite features and then get sewing!
If you choose to use recycled cotton fabric, then with your eco-friendly material, and the bag’s timeless design you’ll end up with an extremely durable tote that lasts you a nice long time.
If you customize the look by using exciting patterns, in attractive colors and by adding your own DIY embroidery, then you’ll be able to easily match it together with some of your casual styles and chic outfit ideas.
What you will need to make a DIY Tote Bag Tutorial:-
- ½ a yard of Recycled Canvas / Cotton Fabric for the main fabric,
- ¼ of a yard of fabric for the interfacing, pocket, handles, and adjustable shoulder strap.
- Heavy Duty Cotton Thread,
- Adjustable Slide Buckles,
- Rectangle Rings,
- Heavy Duty Snap Buttons,
- Snap Button Pliers,
- Basic sewing supplies,
- A sewing machine.
The designer of the featured bag in this DIY tote bag tutorial uses a thick cloth fabric. However, there are lots of other fabrics that you can easily substitute to make this free tote bag pattern.
A lightweight fabric requires stiff interfacing compared to a heavy fabric. Interfacing is used around the opening of this tote bag pattern.
A stiff fabric works best in terms of durability. The designer used a heavy-duty recycled canvas for the outside and interfacing as well. You can choose a sturdy muslin, colorful canvas, or an attractive cotton print for a more decorative bag.
Cotton fabrics are also an excellent choice for a tote bag lining. However, a variety of craft materials are now available as viable alternatives.
Sizing info:
When you have finished making yourself a DIY Tote Bag it will measure approximately 11″ by 15″ with a 3″ side panel. The finished bag has the capacity to hold approximately 8 liters.
If you wish to strengthen the bag handles then the designer suggests that you double fold the material and edge topstitch. As a result, the handles will be much more durable to withstand the extra wear they receive.
