There are several things you should know if you want to try out how to make a tote bag. Custom tote bags are not rocket science, it can be made with the ease in which you make your apron and clothes. Take a look at the steps below to know how to sew it.
- Draw the pattern that you will find at the end of this document. Cut two pieces in the outer fabric and two pieces in the lining fabric. Mark the landmarks for the coves and the location of the glitter ribbon on the two pieces of the outer fabric.
- Cut out two rectangles of 70 cm x 8 cm in the outer fabric that will be used to make the handles of the bag.
- Sew glitter: On the outside fabric, trace the line with chalk and sew by hand glitter ribbon. To help you in this task, you can paste beforehand your ribbon so that it does not move too much during sewing.
- To sew the handles: Fold the handles in two, place on the place, in the direction of the length.
- Sew 0.5 cm from the edge. Flip the handles with a safety pin and press. For a nicer finish, make a topstitch about 2 mm on both sides handles.
- Bag Sewing: Arrange the handles on the outer fabric, right side up, in using the previously drawn marks. Make a stinging bite 0.5 cm from the edge.
- Create the bag bottom: Pinch a corner of the base of the bag to superimpose the lines of seams. You must obtain an isosceles triangle. Pin and measure 2 cm high.
- Trace the base of the triangle perpendicular to the seam. Pin and sew along the line. Cut off the excess tissue and repeat the operation on the other side.
- Sew the lining: Repeat steps 4 and 5 with the lining pieces. Do not forget to leave an opening at the bottom of the bag to be able to return the work.
- Assemble the bag and the lining: Pin the lining on the bag, right side up and prick the top of the bag.
- Hand finishing: Close the bottom of the lining with small invisible dots. For the lining is well secured to the tote bag, you can also make some small dots at the base of the bag and along the seams of the sides.
