How to Make Tote Bag with Pockets: Top Tips and Tricks Revealed

Are you tired of your boring old tote bags? Do you wish you had a bag that could carry everything you need without feeling bulky and disorganized? Then, it’s time to learn how to make a tote bag with pockets! This DIY project is surprisingly easy, even for beginners, and allows you to customize your bag to fit your specific needs and style.

Getting Started: Materials and Tools

Before we dive into the steps, gather the following materials and tools:

• Fabric: Choose a sturdy fabric like canvas, cotton duck, or even denim. You’ll need enough to cut two rectangles for the main bag body and two smaller rectangles for the pockets.
• Lining Fabric: This will give your bag a finished look and prevent fraying. Choose a lightweight cotton fabric that complements your main fabric.
• Interfacing: This stiffens the fabric and helps the bag hold its shape. Choose a fusible interfacing for easy application.
• Thread: Choose a matching thread for both the main fabric and lining.
• Sewing Machine: A sewing machine makes the process much faster and easier.
• Scissors: Sharp scissors are essential for accurate cutting.
• Measuring Tape: For accurate measurements.
• Pins: To hold the fabric layers together before sewing.
• Iron: To press seams and ensure a smooth finish.

Step 1: Cut Out Your Fabric

Now, let’s get started with the cutting:

1. Main Bag Body:

• Cut two rectangles of your main fabric for the bag body. The dimensions will depend on your desired size. For a standard tote bag, aim for approximately 16 inches wide and 14 inches tall.
• Cut two identical rectangles of lining fabric for the bag body.

2. Pockets:

• Cut two rectangles of your main fabric for the pockets. The size depends on your preference. For a standard-sized pocket, aim for approximately 8 inches wide and 6 inches tall.
• Cut two identical rectangles of lining fabric for the pockets.

3. Interfacing:

• Cut two pieces of interfacing, slightly smaller than the main bag body rectangles.

Step 2: Prepare the Pockets

1. Interfacing:

• Iron the interfacing onto the wrong side of the pocket fabric pieces. This will give the pockets structure.

2. Sewing the Pockets:

• Pin the two pieces of pocket fabric together, right sides facing.
• Sew around the edges of the pocket, leaving a small opening at the top for turning.
• Turn the pocket right side out through the opening.
• Press the pocket flat.

Step 3: Assemble the Bag Body

1. Interfacing:

• Iron the interfacing onto the wrong side of the two main bag body fabric pieces.

2. Sewing the Bag Body:

• Pin the two pieces of main bag body fabric together, right sides facing.
• Sew around the edges of the bag body, leaving an opening at the top for turning.

3. Turning and Pressing:

• Turn the bag body right side out through the opening.
• Press the bag body flat.

Step 4: Attaching the Pockets

1. Positioning:

• Decide where you want to place your pockets on the inside of the bag body. You can place them on the side seams, or in the center.

2. Pinning:

• Pin the pockets to the inside of the bag body, right sides facing.

3. Sewing:

• Sew around the edges of the pockets, securing them to the bag body.

Step 5: Sewing the Lining

1. Pinning:

• Pin the two pieces of lining fabric together, right sides facing.
• Leave an opening at the top for turning.

2. Sewing:

• Sew around the edges of the lining, leaving the opening at the top.

3. Turning:

• Turn the lining right side out through the opening.

Step 6: Assembling the Bag

1. Inserting the Lining:

• Place the lining inside the bag body, right sides facing.

2. Pinning:

• Pin the top edges of the bag body and lining together.

3. Sewing:

• Sew around the top edge of the bag, securing the bag body and lining.

4. Turning:

• Turn the bag right side out through the opening in the lining.

5. Finishing:

• Hand-stitch the opening in the lining closed.

Finishing Touches: Adding Style

1. Handles:

• You can add handles using fabric strips, leather straps, or purchased handles.

2. Embellishments:

• Get creative! Add buttons, ribbons, patches, or even embroidery to personalize your tote bag.

Beyond Basic: Variations and Ideas

1. Zippered Pockets:

• Add a zipper to one of your pockets for a secure compartment.

2. Multiple Pockets:

• Create a system of smaller pockets for organizing different items.

3. Different Shapes:

• Experiment with different shapes, like a rectangular or square tote.

4. Fabric Choices:

• Explore different fabrics like canvas, denim, corduroy, or even faux leather.

5. Color Blocking:

• Use different colors of fabric to create a bold, eye-catching design.

The Finishing Touch: Enjoy Your New Tote Bag

Congratulations! You’ve successfully created a custom, functional, and stylish tote bag with pockets. Now, fill it with your essentials and enjoy the satisfaction of a DIY project well done.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. What is the best type of fabric for a tote bag?

• Canvas, cotton duck, and denim are great choices for tote bags because they are sturdy and durable.

2. How do I choose the right size for my tote bag?

• Consider what you plan to carry in your bag. If you need a bag for everyday use, a standard size (16 inches wide x 14 inches tall) is a good choice.

3. Can I use a sewing machine for this project?

• Yes, a sewing machine will make the process much faster and easier.

4. What is interfacing used for?

• Interfacing adds stiffness and structure to the fabric, helping the bag hold its shape.

5. How do I add handles to my tote bag?

• You can use fabric strips, leather straps, or purchased handles. Attach them to the top edges of the bag body using sewing or rivets.