Hey yall!
Welcome to my blog! Are you looking for a simple, beginner-friendly sewing project that’s actually useful? This DIY reusable tote bag is perfect whether you’re heading to the farmer’s market, library, or just want to ditch plastic for good. It’s easy to make, great for gifting, and you don’t need a fancy sewing machine to pull it off!
In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly how to sew a tote bag from scratch—with step-by-step instructions.
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Materials:
- Cotton or canvas fabric (4 pieces 16” x 18” in one color or two in a main fabric color and 2 for a lining) (you can use fat quarters or yardage) I like canvas for sturdiness, but cotton works well in a pinch too!
- Two fabric strips (24” x 4”) for straps in either main fabric color or lining color or webbing
- Products I used for this project:
- Sewing/Embroidery Combo Machine
- Thread
- Needles
- Scissors
- Rotary Scissors
- Cutting mat
- Iron
- Measuring Tape
- Cutting ruler
Instructions:
- Cut two rectangles (16” x 18”) for the main fabric and two for the lining fabric. Make sure if using a patterned fabric that you design is going in the right direction.
2. Cut two strips (24″ x 4″) for the handles in either main fabric or lining.
3. Place the main fabric pieces right sides(pretty side of fabric) together and sew along the sides and bottom with a 1/2 inch seam allowance. Make sure if you’re using a patterned fabric that the pattern is going the right direction.
4. Do the same for the two lining fabric pieces.
5. Fold each fabric strip lengthwise in half wrong sides of fabric together and then iron, open back up and then fold each edge into the middle, iron and then fold in half again. Your strip should be roughly an inch wide.
6. Sew along the edge with a 1/8th inch seam allowance on both sides.
7. Turn your main bag right side out so that the pretty side is on the outside. Take the end of one handle strip and place it at the top of the main fabric bag 3 inches from the outer edge and pin, making sure the handle is straight. Do the same with the other end of the handle on the other side. The handle should now be pinned on one side of the bag.
8. Flip the bag over and repeat for the remaining handle fabric strip.
9. Sew both handles down at your machine with a 1/4 inch seam allowance. Clip corners of the bag making sure not to cut the stitches.
10. Place your main bag inside your lining bag (lining bag should still be turned inside out) and sew around the top edge with a 1/4 inch seam allowance leaving an opening about 4-5 inches wide so you can fit your hand in to turn the bag out. Makes sure to backstitch several times at the start and end, so your bag doesn’t come undone while turning.
11. Turn the bag inside out by placing your hand through the opening and turn the bag.
12. Top Stitch around the top edge to close the hole and finish off the bag. Now it’s complete!
🛍️ Why You’ll Love This DIY Tote Bag
- It’s reusable, washable, and eco-friendly
- You can customize it with prints, pockets, or even embroidery
- Makes a cute handmade gift idea
- Perfect scrap-busting project!
🔍 Reusable Tote Bag FAQ
Can beginners make a tote bag?
Absolutely! This is one of the easiest sewing projects out there, even if you’re new to a sewing machine.
What fabric is best for tote bags?
Canvas or cotton duck fabric is ideal, but denim, linen, or even thick quilting cotton will work.
How long does it take to sew a tote bag?
This project can be done in 30 minutes to an hour depending on your pace.
Whether you’re just learning to sew or looking for a quick project to make and sell, this DIY tote bag is a winner. Happy sewing!