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How to make a simple (reversible) tote bag

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I have been loving the suggestions for the "Yes, You Can Make It" posts! Thank you! So up first is a request for a tutorial on how to make a reversible tote. If you have something you are interested in making please fill out the form in the left sidebar.


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You will need:

2 pieces fabric 13 1/2 inches X 14 inches (outside)

2 pieces fabric 13 1/2 inches X 14 inches (lining)

1 piece 4'' X  about 44" long

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1. Cut a piece of fabric 4"X 44" long. Press fabric in half lengthwise.

2. Open fabric up and press each outside edge to the center.

3. Fold fabric in half and press.

4. Top-stitch down each side of strap close to the edge. Cut fabric in half so you have two straps about 22 inches long each.

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Cut four pieces fabric 13 1/2 inches X 14 inches.

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Sew lining fabric right sides together on three sides and also outer fabric right sides together on three sides. For this bag the bottom is 13 1/2 inches wide and the sides 14 inches long.  The bag can be made any size.

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3. Pinch bottom corner together and stitch across 1 1/2 inches from corner.

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4. Repeat until all four corners have been sewn.

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5. Place lining fabric inside the outside fabric right sides together.

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6. Place straps in between right sides of fabric on each side about two to  three  inches from the side edge.

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7. Pins straps and top edge of bag well. Stitch around top of bag 1/2 inch from edge. Leave a 2-3 inch opening for turning bag (I usually leave this on the side).

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8. Turn bag inside out.

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9. Push lining inside the bag and top stitch all the way around the top of bag. This will close up the opening used for turning.

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Finished!

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You might be interested in making a matching pocket tissue holder and zippered pouch to go with your tote!

The fabric is from Heather Bailey. I used Pineapple Brocade in green and Zag Stripe in gold (I think).

Thanks for taking the time to visit me today!

57 Responses to “How to make a simple (reversible) tote bag”

  1. [...] Bag Gift I made this tote bag last night for my friend’s daughter.  It was safe to show this one since the [...]

  2. Jeannie S says:

    I LOVE the reversible tote pattern!! Very easy to follow. I am making them for new babies with their names on them and filling them with baby necessities for a gift. Thank you for posting this tutorial.

  3. Kristan says:

    Thank you for this great tute! I linked it on my blog, http://creativelymom.blogspot.com.

  4. jaya says:

    i made a tote using another tutorial, but it turned out too large and floppy. will try to resize it to your directions and post the result.
    thank you for posting really clear instructions!

  5. Elisabeth says:

    Hi! I love this tutorial but I’m confused at the whole “pinch the bottom corner” part. I can’t figure out how to pinch it like the picture. Is there anyway you can take a shot and email it to me of you pinching it and laying it flat so i can see how/where to pinch and sew? I’m soooo confused.
    Thanks!

  6. Becca says:

    As a novice sewer, your photos and directions were very helpful. I made the cutest bag last night. Thanks!

  7. Kathie says:

    Great Bag, I looked for a tote but never found one I liked. So I bought material I liked and found your web site. Being in this snowing weather was perfect for craft making. Thank you for such easy directions. I was done in less than 30 minutes.

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