What To Know
- Fold the top edges of the two exterior fabric rectangles for the bag body inwards by ½ inch and press.
- Pin the top edges in place and sew around the entire top of the bag using a ½ inch seam allowance.
- Fold the top edges of the two lining fabric rectangles for the bag body inwards by ½ inch and press.
Are you looking for a stylish and practical way to carry your essentials? Look no further than a tote bag! And what better way to personalize your style than by making your own? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of how to make a tote bag with lining, ensuring a durable and beautifully finished product.
Gather Your Supplies
Before you embark on your sewing journey, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials at hand. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- Exterior Fabric: Choose a sturdy fabric that can withstand daily wear and tear. Cotton canvas, denim, or even a fun patterned fabric are excellent choices.
- Lining Fabric: Opt for a smooth and easy-to-sew fabric like cotton quilting fabric or broadcloth. The lining will add structure and a polished look to your tote bag.
- Interfacing: This will provide additional stability and shape to the bag. Choose a fusible interfacing for ease of application.
- Handles: You can use fabric straps, leather handles, or even pre-made handles for a professional touch.
- Sewing Machine: This is essential for stitching the bag together.
- Sewing Pins: These will help hold the fabric layers together while sewing.
- Scissors: A pair of sharp scissors is crucial for precise cutting.
- Measuring Tape: Accurate measurements are essential for a well-proportioned bag.
- Rotary Cutter (Optional): This tool can make cutting fabric much faster and easier.
- Iron: An iron is needed to press the seams and create a crisp finish.
- Thread: Choose matching thread for both the exterior and lining fabrics.
- Optional: Zipper, Magnetic Snaps, or Buttons: These can add extra functionality and style to your tote bag.
Cut Your Fabric
Now that you have all your supplies ready, it’s time to cut your fabric. Here are the measurements for a standard tote bag, but feel free to adjust them to your liking:
- Exterior Fabric:
- Two rectangles measuring 16″ x 14″ for the bag body
- Two rectangles measuring 28″ x 3″ for the handles
- Lining Fabric:
- Two rectangles measuring 16″ x 14″ for the bag body
- Two rectangles measuring 28″ x 3″ for the handles
- Interfacing:
- Two rectangles measuring 16″ x 14″ for the bag body
Prepare the Exterior Fabric
1. Interfacing: Iron the interfacing onto the wrong side of the two exterior fabric rectangles for the bag body. This will give the bag its structure and prevent sagging.
2. Handles: Fold the long edges of the handle fabric strips inward by ½ inch and press. Fold the strips in half lengthwise and press again.
3. Top Edges: Fold the top edges of the two exterior fabric rectangles for the bag body inwards by ½ inch and press. This will create a clean finish for the top of the bag.
Sew the Exterior Fabric
1. Handles: Pin the handles to the right sides of the exterior fabric rectangles, aligning the raw edges. Sew the handles in place using a ½ inch seam allowance.
2. Side Seams: Pin the two exterior fabric rectangles for the bag body right sides together, aligning the raw edges. Sew the side seams using a ½ inch seam allowance.
3. Top Edges: Fold the top edges of the bag inwards by ½ inch and press again. Then, fold the top edges inwards again by another ½ inch and press once more. This will create a double-fold hem. Pin the top edges in place and sew around the entire top of the bag using a ½ inch seam allowance.
Prepare the Lining Fabric
1. Handles: Repeat the same process as for the exterior fabric handles, folding the long edges and pressing, then folding in half and pressing again.
2. Top Edges: Fold the top edges of the two lining fabric rectangles for the bag body inwards by ½ inch and press. This will create a clean finish for the top of the lining.
Sew the Lining Fabric
1. Handles: Pin the handles to the right sides of the lining fabric rectangles, aligning the raw edges. Sew the handles in place using a ½ inch seam allowance.
2. Side Seams: Pin the two lining fabric rectangles for the bag body right sides together, aligning the raw edges. Sew the side seams using a ½ inch seam allowance.
3. Top Edges: Fold the top edges of the lining inwards by ½ inch and press again. Then, fold the top edges inwards again by another ½ inch and press once more. This will create a double-fold hem. Pin the top edges in place and sew around the entire top of the lining using a ½ inch seam allowance.
Assemble the Bag
1. Turn the Lining: Turn the lining fabric right side out through the opening at the top of the bag.
2. Insert the Lining: Carefully insert the lining into the exterior bag, making sure the right sides of both fabrics are facing each other.
3. Pin and Sew: Pin the top edges of the lining and exterior fabric together, aligning the raw edges. Sew around the entire top of the bag using a ½ inch seam allowance.
4. Turn the Bag: Turn the entire bag right side out through the opening at the top of the lining.
Finishing Touches
1. Press the Seams: Press all the seams of the bag flat for a crisp finish.
2. Optional Add-ons: If you’re adding a zipper, magnetic snaps, or buttons, attach them now.
3. Enjoy Your New Tote Bag! You’ve successfully created a stylish and durable tote bag that’s perfect for carrying your everyday essentials.
Beyond the Basics: Adding Personality to Your Tote Bag
Now that you have the foundation of a tote bag, let’s explore some creative ways to personalize it:
- Fabric Choices: Experiment with different textures, patterns, and colors. You can even combine different fabrics for a unique look.
- Embroidery: Add a touch of elegance with embroidered designs or lettering.
- Appliqués: Cut out shapes from fabric scraps and attach them to the bag for a fun and whimsical touch.
- Patchwork: Cut squares or rectangles from different fabrics and sew them together to create a patchwork design.
- Quilting: Use quilting techniques to add texture and dimension to the bag.
- Hardware: Add decorative hardware like rivets, grommets, or buckles to enhance the bag’s visual appeal.
The Final Stitch: A Farewell to Our Sewing Adventure
Congratulations! You’ve now mastered the art of how to make a tote bag with lining. With your newfound skills, you can create a personalized tote bag that reflects your unique style. Embrace the joy of crafting and let your creativity soar!
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of fabric for the lining?
Absolutely! While cotton quilting fabric and broadcloth are popular choices, you can use any fabric that feels smooth and easy to sew. Just make sure it complements the exterior fabric.
2. What if I don’t have a rotary cutter?
You can still cut your fabric using regular scissors. Just make sure they’re sharp and make precise cuts along your marked lines.
3. How can I make the handles sturdier?
You can double the fabric for the handles or add a layer of interfacing to them for extra strength.
4. Is it possible to add a zipper closure to the tote bag?
Yes, you can definitely add a zipper to your tote bag. Simply sew the zipper to the top edge of the bag before assembling the lining and exterior fabric.
5. Can I make a tote bag with a different shape?
Absolutely! You can adjust the measurements and shape of the bag to suit your preferences. Experiment with different designs!
