Here is a simple tote bag pattern to walk you step by step through how to make a super cute tote. The best part is that it’s reversible! Make one for yourself — or make a dozen as gifts!
With a little practice, you can turn out these simple bags on a sewing machine in no time. Lined totes are super easy, and they can be made in so many cute variations. Plus, don’t miss our pattern for a matching zippered pouch!
Tote Bag Pattern
For this reversible tote bag sewing project, you will need the following fabric pieces:
- 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
How to make a tote bag
First, let’s start by making the straps.
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.
Now let’s make the tote bag.
1. Cut four pieces fabric 13 1/2 inches X 14 inches.
2. Lay lining fabric right sides together and sew on three sides. Leave one side open for the top! Next, sew your outer fabric pieces right sides together on three sides.
For this project, the bottom of the bag is 13 1/2 inches wide and the sides 14 inches long. But the bag can be made any size.
3. Now we need to “box” the bottom of the bag. Pinch bottom corner together and stitch across 1 1/2 inches from the corner. Do this for the lining and also the outer fabric.
4. Repeat until all four corners have been sewn.
5. Place lining fabric inside the outside fabric right sides together. I slipped the lining fabric up a bit so you can see how it slips in.
6. Place straps in between right sides of fabric on each side about two to three inches from the side edge.
7. Pins straps and the top edge of bag well. Stitch around the top of bag 1/2 inch from the edge. Leave a 2-3 inch opening for turning bag (I usually leave this on the side).
8. Turn bag inside out.
9. Push lining inside the bag and top stitch all the way around to hem the top of the bag. This will close up the opening used for turning.
Top stitching also makes the seams more durable, so they won’t strain and pull apart if you use the tote to carry heavy stuff.
Finished! How exciting! You did it. I hope you make tons of totes with this tote bag pattern! They make great gifts.
Tips for the perfect reversible tote bag
Here are some other optional tips that might help:
- Maybe you need longer or shorter handles than the size in this pattern. To modify, just drape a measuring tape over your shoulder and see what feels right to you.
- You can use a heavy canvas or Duck cloth — in which case you’ll need to adjust your sewing machine needle accordingly.
- If you use a lightweight fabric, you may want to line it with a fusible fleece — just follow directions on the fleece packaging to fuse it to the wrong sides of one set of your fabric pieces.
- Are you feeling ambitious? You might experiment with adding pockets or dividers!
- Tote bags are perfect for taking your lunch to work, transporting groceries, or packing gym clothes. Cut down on plastic bags with washable, handy-dandy, eye-catching totes!
Now that you know how to make a tote bag you might also like to make a matching pleated zippered pouch to go with your new tote! A zippered pouch is really the perfect use for extra fabric left over from making a tote bag. You will be surprised at how easy it is to put in a zipper with this zippered pouch tutorial.
The fabrics used in these projects are created by Heather Bailey. I used Pineapple Brocade in green and Zag Stripe in gold (I think).
There are so many fabric choices out there, the possibilities are endless. Did you give this pattern a whirl? I’d love to see the tote bags you made!
Thank you so much for the tote bag tutorial. I’m just getting back in to sewing after many years of work, care taking of parents, etc. So, now my husband and I are in a senior living facility. So, I finally have lots of time on my hands. I felt like the tote bag was going together nicely until I turned it all right side out and the straps ended up being “trapped” inside. What did I do wrong? 😢
My understanding is that you will send this tutorial as an email to my computer. What do I need to do to make this happen? Maggie
A great tutorial.
Thanks Helen!
Thank You
Hello, I would like to know if I can use dishcloths to make grocery bags. Love your site, lovely ideas. Thanking you Annesley,
Dear Cindy,
Thanks for the free pattern! It’s amazing how confused I can get with inside/ outside/ right side etc and where to place the straps. When I have mistakenly managed to put the straps between the lining and outside and had to unpick all the stitches – I run back to the screen – in another room – and review your instructions.
I have made a slightly different version with the straps on one side for hanging kangaroo joeys from door handles etc.
one side needs to hang open somewhat so they can hop out when needed. Pity I can’t send you a photo – I’m hoping the straps can cope with 7 Kgs?
Thanks again -great instructions!
Toni
I’m looking for a pattern on putting divider in tote. I hope you can help me. Thanks in advance.
Hi many thanks for these instructions on “how to make a tote bag”. I’m sitting here this morning on a rather dull day and l have all the fabrics necessary to make a bag so watch this space.
Crafty Carol x
Thanks for the pattern. I made grocery bags recently with the pouch attached to it. But I will do the reversible bag soon. We have to carry our own bags to most stores, so I will need lots. Beautiful material.
Wonderful. I am glad you made them.
Thank you SO MUCH for this sweet tote! I just made my granddaughter a quilt and she wanted a matching tote. This pattern and photo how-to’s were perfect! Thank you again.
Elaine T.
Made a few of these out of upholstery material 20 years ago for Christmas. They are still being used. Thanks for memories.
Thank you, brilliant instructions. Just turned a tweed skirt into one, lined with bright coloured stuff, so reversible for how the mood takes. Took me a while though, as am not too confident.
Thank you for all your great ideas!
I love your tote. Fun and easy. I’d like to make them into toy storage bags for the grand kids and would like them to stand up on there base. Any suggestions on how I can make the bottom box wider across?
Ingrid, you can sew further in on the corners. It will create more of a square bottom.
I have made over 100 of these! Great pattern! Thanks.
Thank you for the pattern, my husband bought me a sewing machine for my birthday, (I am an avid crocheter) ! So will start with this bag! Thanks again.
We are very big on reusable supermarket totes in our family. It is time to make some new ones, I think. My girls will love this pattern, but I have find some Star Wars fabrics.
How do I print how to make the tote bag?
I made two tote bags. Took about 30 min. Turned out perfect. I think I have enough fabric left to try a matching zippered purse. Im afraid of zippers. I avoid patterns that call for them, but I guess Ill
Never learn without trial&error.
Oh my goodness you can do it Teresa. Just follow this tutorial https://www.skiptomylou.org/pleated-pouch-tutorial/
I would love to make this with a really sturdy fabric to use as a reusable shopping bag!
Audrey that would work great! We use ours for books.
Just discovered your tutorial for the tote bag and wondered if you should trim the corners after you have sewn them.
Lynne, it is hidden so you don’t see them, but trimming them removes some bulk.
This is a great idea for sewing a reversible bag and it is obviously so easy to make!
The fabrics are stunning. I like the one with the flowers very much!
Thanks Susanne!
These bags are wonderfully easy. My lady friends and I made about 35 of them in various fabrics to give to residents of a nursing home. We also made walker bags and busy bibs for those who needed them. We thank you for the lovely free and quick
pattern.
Wow Lois, you are so kind and generous! I am so happy the tote bag pattern helped you!
Thanks for the tutorial. I’ve been making canvas shopping bags but wanted to try making one reversible so I could use cotton so I could use more varied prints. I made mine 18 inch square and made the straps longer so I could make an X box on each strap for strength since its bigger. I also added a pocket on one side. Came out great, I’m so happy I found this tutorial.
My 7 yr old granddaughter and I made 2 of these for a family car trip. She loved choosing the fabrics, cutting them out and pinning. She watched me stitch. She is now hooked on sewing!
Wish I could insert a picture.
oh me too Laura! You can always email me! I would love to see!
Thankyou for this tutorial it’s so great to be able make our bags so we can do something great for the planet making all my friends bag for Christmas
Elie
I make my bags different
Thank you for sharing your tutorial! It is the easiest I’ve seen so far for a tote bag. I’ve made two and they will be teacher’s gifts for the end of the year. I love how simple this is! I added an inner pocket to the second tote I made. Thank you thank you!!
Thank you for this amazing tutorial! I’ve made tote bags about a million ways and this is the best by far.
Thank you so much for this tutorial! I will try it later.
Hello,
I liked your tutorial. It was insightful. I have been away from sewing & quilting for about 30 years, except for the odd costume when my daughter was in primary school. I have helped making her a couple of costumes in her adulthood for Halloween.
However, I usually I only did the cutting out. My mom did the sewing.
I have invested in a new sewing machine since I have retired & want to quilt & paint for the rest of my days that God blesses me with.
My first project is going to be a purse, simple (I hope) & easy till I can get back in the swing of things. I’m having difficulty using invisible thread. Man, what a problem. I can’t keep my machine needle threaded. Plus, I haven’t even tried to wind a bob in with the stuff!
Also, I would like to put in the usual zippered inside pocket, as well as a cell phone pocket & key keeper.
I am looking for a tutorial on how to cut out & put the pockets inside the purse & I would like to put a decorative & fold-over pocket outside.
Any hints or tutorials you can help me with will be immensely appreciated!
I must admit the invisible thread has “whopped my b-t” & shattered my confidence in my ability. I don’t usually have this much trouble with machines.
I have ordered some very expensive fabric & ribbons/borders from the studio of French designer Odile Bailloeul. So, I don’t want to make a mess of it.
Thnx from my heart for your tutorial.
adorei o modelo da ecobeg !!!!
Thank you for the tutorial. My granddaughter’s Birthday is next week and being it is so close to Christmas I wanted to make her a little something special. The tutorial was easy to follow. I put her name on the front. Plan on making this tote again!
So great to hear Linny!
Thank you so much for posting this tutorial ♡ just made a last minute christmas gift for my husbands grandmother, it turned out great. Whishing you a merry christmas ☆
With love from umeå, Sweden.
Thank you so much for this tutorial! I’ve made quite a few already. They make great gifts for my daughters teachers at the end of the schoolyear.
so i was looking for a patteren to make headbands for a couple friends inculding my sisters and also selling some to but when i looked it up or went to joans frabic store i couldnt find it anywhere so i tried looking again online and i found this website on how to make tote bags so i clicked on it and i liked it so very much but what i think was a little hard for me was trying to see what size and mearsurements were
Finally I have found an easy way to make a tote bag. I want to make them for my family to put their Christmas presents in, and as we are about to abolish plastic shopping bags they have one ready. Thank you.
Loved making the bag. The instructions are really easy to follow and the photos help in the tricky bits like the corners. I’m going try the little matching accessories.
This is adorable. Has to be the easiest directions to follow and understand.
I just made 2 for my daughter and her Big. It’s for the Big/Little gifts for her and her sorority sister. I can’t wait to fill them with “rescue treats” during those long study nights. Thank you so much. I wish I could post a picture for you. I made 2 in under a hour and a half from start to finish and they are my first tote bags ever made. Love Love Love it.
I am SO glad I found this. Your directions and photos helped me immensely. My family will be getting their Christmas presents this year in new, fantastic ‘gift bags’. Once I took my time and followed step-by-step…this pattern is a breeze. Gotta go, there are more bags to make! Thank you.
This bag is great, your tutorial is easy to follow. I made one for my Granddaughter with her initial appliqued on it and now my daughter has asked me to make one for my Grandson, she said it would be perfect for his library bag at school. I am letting him pick out the material and his will be appliqued with his initial on it as well!
Wonderful, easy to follow tutorial!
Thanks so much Joan!
This is a great, easy-to-follow pattern. I made a few modifications (overall size, strap construction) to make an appliquéd bag for my ukelele song books. Would love to share a pic with you, but that doesn’t seem to be an option here. Have had several requests for my pattern. I most certainly gave you credit and linked to this page.
Lynn, please email me a picture I would love to see it.
Thanks Lynn!
Loved this tutorial, easy peasy gorgeous totes!!
Thanks so much for sharing your patterns and directions with us for the tote bag and matching zippered pouch.
I am teaching my granddaughters (ages 8 and 10) to sew and these are perfect for them.
Love the Bible verse on the pouch– Joshua 1:9 is one of my favorites!!!
Wow so simple and so amazing! Thank you.
thanks a lot, very useful tutorial
How do you print instructions for the fabric tote. I am not too computer literate. But I didn’t see printer friendly. So, I must have to do something to get the printer to just print the pictures and instructions. Can you help so I might print other things I like.
Thank you dor this lovely tutorial. I still managed to get my lining inside out!! 😩 Another bag for my daughter!! Lol
I love this tutorial… planning to make a few for birthday gifts for nieces and nephews this year. Also saw the previous poster’s question about making them to sell. That was my question also, so I was happy to find the answer, and plan to add them to my site for purchase, linking back here for credit. The other question I had was whether you cut off your corners after stitching them or leave them on? It would seem to me to leave extra bulk after turning.
Shannon, you can use the pattern to make totes to sell! Please though, don’t reprint or sell the pattern (just link back here). I hope you can use the pattern to bless your family with some extra money!
I leave the corners on and don’t notice the extra bulk. You may also trim… but not too close to the stitching line. You wouldn’t want the fabric to give way.
Thank you for the simple pattern!
our local woman’s transition house has started a campaign for sewers and crafters to make reusable bags for all their hampers that get distributed to women and families. I’ll be using this pattern and sharing with all involved!
So cute , thanks for the ideas and instructions!
I found this ages ago but only just got around to trying it. I love the idea of the gap being left at the top to be sewn up with the top stitching. Most things I’ve done leave the gap in the bottom of the lining which I don’t really like hand stitching or stitching closed on the machine. I also love the fabric you have used and will definitely be having a look at the matching tissue holder and pouch. I made gifts for Christmas but ran out of time so I am already thinking of making plenty of things ready for next Christmas. Thank you.
I have used your tutorial to make many bags over the years. When I started on another round of bags for this year’s Christmas, I thought I would stop and take a minute to thank you for this tutorial. It has brought many cute bags into the world!
Thanks Sarah for letting me know. That makes my day!
Great tutorial and pictures! Thank you very much for that 🙂 Even I as beginner suceeded. My first bag looks good and I am already picking up the colors for the next one 😀
Thank you so much for this project. I have wanted to make a tote bag for ages now. I found it very easy to follow and made four. They are the perfect size for the quilted advent calendars I have made for my granddaughters. Super pleased with them, as I am sure they will be as well.
From a happy grandmother !
Thank you so much!!! Just made one for a faculty meeting door prize. I used fusible interface in the handles and bag to give it a little “body” and made the bottom 2.5 inches deep and it is just darling!!! Thank you again so such a quick and easy pattern.
Can someone please tell me the finished size of the tote: width, height, depth.
I loved your diy tips a lot. Very wonderfu for a beginner. Looking forward to making more of your project. Luv u so much. Do u av a Facebook page?
Wow, these are really good, very simple and clear instructions. I just made one for a friend using plain corduroy for the bag, overlaid with a panel of toning patterned heavy weight cotton and same fabric for the straps, which are a little wider and top stitched with extra rectangle of stitches for more strength where they join the bag. Thank you so much for this tutorial.
I love this easy pattern!! Great tutorial! Thank you for posting!
Thank you so much for this fabulous pattern! I’ve made loads of them to give to friends and everyone loves them. They’re just the right size to fold up and keep in my handbag for that impulsive purchase!
Thank you for this fabulously simple pattern! I’ve made a dozen of them so far, mostly to give to friends – ever since the introduction of a statutory 5p charge for carriers it is just so handy to keep one or two of these folded up inside my handbag and then I never get caught out. And besides they look so much nicer than cheapie plastic bags!
thanks, good job
straps? what to do with sraps after sewing on? I was coasting along fine but got super messed up when straps came. I made them very nice by the way. Super easy but could not for life of me figure where to put the remainder of stap. So I sewed on other side in between fabric and when I went to turn iside out my tote was all messed up. I have a lining rough side. The outside is fine but inside tote well not so nice. what did i mess up. I could not go figure. i am so new at this. Thank you. My first one turned out better I did staps another way. Maybe should have stuck to what worked for me. lol. You are precious cindy and talented. thank you. Please reply I am curious!!! God B;ess you patti
skip to my lou. Preciuos cindy. Loved the instructions for the tote. Simple, My kind of sewing. I am new at this. I love the hobby. I get flustered at to many instructions. I could easily follow yours. Yay. Thank you so much woman. I am going to make Number 2 tote today. God Bless You. Patti
Thank you for this simple pattern! I wanted to learn how to see and this is my second project and I am in love! I’m currently making my third tote and don’t see me stopping any time soon.
Thanks for the awesome instructions. Best I have seen. I will be making many bags thanks to you!!! Great job!
This is a topic which is close to my heart…
Takke care! Exactly where are your contact details though?
I just made four of these totes as Christmas gifts – actually, they were used in place of Christmas stockings for adult women. I made the first one exactly as directed then decided to play with the size a bit, because it seems just a bit narrow at the opening. I ended up cutting the fabric at 14×16 inches, and that one inch difference in the opening (after sewing the seam) made all the difference. The recipients were so happy with the bags! Thank you for a great, very useful tutorial!
Thank you! Great instructions. I bought some very expensive fabric several months ago, to make into a gift tote bag, and have been too nervous to start. I just made 3 totes in 2 days, the 3rd one in the very expensive fabric and it looks great.
Yay! Mary
Fantastic tutorial- really clear and simple. Great confidence booster for a newbie like me to complete a project successfully. Thanks for sharing!
I just made this bag and it looks great, especially for a newbie sewer! These are going to be Christmas presents!
Wonderfully easy pattern and fun! Making them out of leftover fabrics for neighborhood welcome wagon duties to give to new folks with goodies inside. Could use some hints on the corners though. Couldn’t make them push out. Thanks again!
Thanks so much for this tutorial, I will be using it to teach a class of homeschool kids how to sew. Great project. 🙂
I am having trouble printing tutorials off of your website thank you Edie
We have been having some trouble with links. Edie, could you let me know which tutorial?
I am no sewing marvel and my bag came out so cute! I used an old tablecloth to do a first version in case I ran into snags, and there were none! (Now I have an adorable bag with old food stains on it! Ha!) Even though I couldn’t wrap my brain around how those straps were going to somehow emerge correctly, they did, and I am thrilled with the result. Great tutorial, thank you for posting!
This is a great tutorial. I used a 1/4″ seam all around; is this right? Also, I used fat quarters to make one and purchased cotton webbing for the straps. I used leftover fabric for another one, buying fat quarters for the lining and using more leftover fabric to make a pocket on the inside.
What seam width did you use on side seams?
Thank you!
i am gonna try this bag for my granddaughter love it
Hola! Me encanto el tutorial del bolso, pero hay no entiendo las medidas! Serà posible alguien me las digas en Centimetros? Para saber las medidas del tote bags POR FAVOR!! Saludos desde Venezuela! 😉
Great tutorial. I was able to do my fist reversible tote only few hour after using my first sewing machine. So thank you very much!
Hi, I love this bag! Thank you for the instructions. A note: There were two bits in the instructions where I think it could have been a little clearer. The piece about sewing at the bottom corners – I flubbed that I think but it still worked – and also how to put the straps in to sew. Mine came out slightly twisted. I can still fix it but that would be helpful to explain a bit better how to lay out the straps between the two layers. Thanks! It is a really functional fun bag.
Fab tutorial my six year old and I just made one really easily, thank you very much
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Thanks for this! Made one today and can’t believe how easy it was and how well it turned out! Great bag for the beach, holidays, gifts. Got more fabric cut out for another one tomorrow 🙂
This tutorial is the best! I love the simplicity of this bag! I normally sew with spandex so this was the first bag I ever made and it looks store bought! I tried my hand at appliqué on the side of the bag too! I’ll be telling all my friends about your page!
This worked really well. I added a pocket to the front as I had some spare fabric. Your instructions were very clear. Thank you very much for sharing this.
Wanted to let you know I made your tote bag and was so very happy with the results. It was super easy and looks very professional. I appliquéd my granddaughter’s initial and embroidered her name. Really happy with the results. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks for the guide, here’s how mine turned out:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/klockarp/15130657793/
https://www.flickr.com/photos/klockarp/15565253920/
Made from curtains I found at The Red Cross 2ndhand here in Sweden.
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Thanks for this great tutorial! I am a foster parent and posted your link for people in our community to use. They are making these totes for the foster parents in our county to use as simple diaper bags for the weekly bio family visits and when children come into care with nothing. This has been an easy tote that really helps the foster families and gives people a way to help when they are unable to foster themselves. Several other counties have borrowed the idea and are sharing your link in their area. Your totes are helping foster families across Arkansas. Thanks!!!
I absolutely LOVE this pattern. To date I have made over 100 bags using this pattern and given them all away as gifts. Have 7 more in the works. Thank you very much for an easy pattern to follow. The pics were extremely helpful.
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Thanks for the great tutorial! I have made several ones now for teachers and the like as Christmas pressies using your pattern, so thanks heaps! Sasha 🙂
Help! I’d like to make some totebags to help you meet your goal of 100 by May, 2014. I have the pattern but lost the the simple steps you listed for getting the bags to you….most importantly, I don’t have mailing address. I hope you can email that information to me. A blog search didn’t generate the info I needed. This will be a great way to whittle down my stash and help a worthy cause. And its wonderful that you continue to stay healthy. Yeah!
Linda Woods
[email protected]
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Thank you for a fantastic tutorial! I found it so easy to follow and am really pleased with the result. I’ll link back to you in my blog when I post tomorrow 🙂
Love your easy to follow tutorial. I just made a tote bag for my daughter and she just love it. Many thanks to you 😉
* I link back your tutorial on my post
Second time using this tutorial for birthday presents for my children’s classmates and this time I am making an extra for my daughter’s birthday as she’s been so thrilled with giving them as gifts. We reside remotely overseas so running to the store for a last minute birthday gift can be a daunting proposition – thank you for giving me such a great alternative!
hice una bolsa chica para practicar y me ha quedado linda, ahora voy hacer una grande , gracias es un tutorial muy facil
Great tutorial! Easy to follow and quick. I made this for my grandson last week and it came out great! I would strongly suggest using a lightweight fusible interfacing on both the lining and the outer fabric and both straps to give this more structure and durability. Just cut the fusible 1/4 inch smaller than the fabric to avoid seam bulkiness. Using the fusible gives it a nice crisp finish and then the bag can hold more weight. Thanks for sharing the tutorial! Love it!
Hello, I wanted to know if it would be okay to make totes to sell from this lovely tutorial. I cannot find a policy page anywhere.
Regards.
Yes, Holli. If you post about them please link back to the tutorial. Thanks so much!
Great tutorial, thank you very much for sharing it!
I loved this simple, clear and very easy tutorial!! Loved it at Christmas when I made 9 of them for my nieces and younger nephews.
I mentioned your tutorial and linked back to you. Thanks again~Cindy(also)
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I just made this and boy was I impressed at the finished result! I just received my 1st sewing machine for Christmas and this was only my 2nd sewing project I’ve completed. (The first was a simple pillow.) My bag is not perfect by any means, but both my husband and I were impressed that 1. I completed the bag in around 2 hrs, and 2. the bag turned out pretty good! Thank you for offering a project that has given me the confidence to keep on sewing!
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I just made this in a mini version for my little girl (19 months). She loves to carry anything around her arm like a bag and I couldn’t resist giving her one of her very own as a little Christmas gift. This tutorial was very easy to follow and the pictures made a great reference, start to finish was about 35 minutes. My finished mini tote bag is about 7″ x 7″ with an 8″ strap length to make it easy for her to carry her goodies. Thanks for sharing!
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Thank you for posting this! Just whipped one up for part of my nephew’s Christmas gift. This pattern is exactly what I had been looking and looking for. I never tried a pattern like this before, so I wanted something easy and was a little nervous about how it would come out. It is sooo cute, and worked up really quickly! Thanks again for such a great tutorial. I will definitely be checking out the rest of your blog 🙂
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I saw all these types of bags on a comedy show (Mike & Molly) hanging in her kitchen nd thought, I wonder if there is a simple pattern for those- and here yours is! Thanks so much for the inspiration. I will send some pictures when I have some sewn!
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Great tutorial! I just made my daughter a Halloween treat tote using it with some pumpkin fabric for the outside and black & white chevron for the inside.. She loves it! Thanks!
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Thank you for such a quick and easy tutorial! I just used your tutorial, but cut the fabric 1 inch smaller (12.5 x 13) and made trick-or-treat bags for my little ones. The smaller measurements are perfect for them at ages 3 and 5! Even better, I had both bags cut in sewn in just about an hour! <3
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Hi Cindy- thank you for such an easy, nicely written and photographed tutorial. I am learning to sew and find your blog so helpful. There will be a little link love in my post tomorrow. You can find it here:
https://julie-prichard.squarespace.com/blog/2013/10/25/treat-bag-sewn-keepsake
Happy halloween!
Used this tutorial today and had a blast. First craft project in a long while.
My bag: http://img266.imageshack.us/img266/4344/8ihd.jpg
Made this just this morning for a last minute birthday gift! Our little giftee loves animals and princesses, so reversible was perfect. Farm animals on one side and princess-kitty-unicorn on the other! Very easy. I used cotton handles you can buy by the yard. Can’t wait to give it to her!
This is such a cute and easy tutorial. Very good. My 11 yr old is learning to sew and she did everything but put the two together. THank you!
I have just started sewing with a machine and will be giving this a try, it looks pretty simple. Thank you so much for sharing!
I made this tonight and just sent you two pics (from my gmail email address). I hope you like it – Your tutorial was very easy to follow and very quick to sew. It will be my “go-to” tote bag pattern from now on! Thank you! You have inspired me and I can’t wait to make some more for gifts (Christmas is coming up soon)!
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This tutorial is so simple to follow and really clear to understand. I have linked to your site via my blog as your tutorial inspired me to create my own! 🙂
http://found-inspiration.blogspot.co.uk/2013/08/reversible-tote-bag.html#more
Best wishes,
Charlotte
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I just finished a bag for my daughter (my third child) for her first year at preschool. The instructions were clear and the pictures made it even easier to follow. Thank you! My sweet girl will adore this bag!
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I’ve made two of these bags for different purposes and thus made them different sizes. I love how cute and simple they are. Thanks so much for sharing!!
What are the final measurements of the bag?
I’ve been hoarding this Laura Ashley material for years because I’m not very good at sewing. This afternoon I made not one, but two tote bags. I will give one to my daughter. I’m feeling very pleased with myself and can’t wait to tackle something else. I’m a late starter – 76 years old and still in the babies class for sewing!
Love this. I’m a sewing novice, and I used this tutorial to make 8 small totes for the little girls on my Christmas list. I used ribbon (flamed on the ends) for the straps. Made life even easier. Thanks so much! They are adorable and gave me no issue!
Hey gal, just wanted to share my tote with you! GREAT tutorial 🙂 So easy, even I could follow it 😉 Keep up the good work!
https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/61626_599766520067928_635637553_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/1005648_599766506734596_1472681120_n.jpg
Thank you for sharing your fabulous bags and taking time to tell me the tutorial helped you! You are so sweet! I love your bags. Happy Sewing and thank you for reading.
So simple and cute! I love the fabric too!! Come link up your post at my party Centerpiece Wednesday http://thestylesisters.blogspot.com/2013/07/centerpiece-wednesday-85-and-wrap-up.html
Karin
Oh what an adorable tote and you made it look so easy to make!!
WoW!!!! Just made six of these!!!! Loved the trick about making a square bottom….amazing!!! Thank you so much for posting pictures & directions!!! I’m a visual person and it helped sooooo much!!!! Love your neat name….
“Skip to my Lou”
I’m not a big sewer, but this looks doable. My boys need new totes for library books, and this bag looks perfect. Thanks so much for sharing! Have a wonderful weekend!
I’m new to sewing and this was my first project after making countless envelope cushions! I was a little daunted by the prospect of a lining and also wondered if my sewing would be good enough to produce neat straps. However, I took my time with the cutting and pressing and everything turned out pristine. I would encourage anyone to have a go at making this. Working through the instructions is a breeze! As always, it’s nine tenths preparation. Do that part right and you can’t go far wrong.
I made a pile of these bags last year for Operation Christmas Child, mad from sale priced fabrics, and leftover curtain fabric I already had. I even added a pocket if I had enough matching fabric.They were fantastic. Thank you so much for very easy to follow instructions. Most appreciated.
Thanks for a very easy to understand tutorial with great photos. I’ve made three of these, and am finishing up my fourth one today. I make pockets on the outside of each piece which adds some function and dimension. I’ve sewn all my life, but still struggle with measuring and cutting. This project is very forgiving, though! Thanks again!
Everything is very open with a precise explanation of the issues.
It was truly informative. Your site is useful. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you so much for sharing! This made a great Mother’s Day gift! Very easy to follow =]
Thank you!
This is the first ever thing I’ve made with my sewing machine – I’d never even touched a sewing machine before this – and you made it so easy.
I am very proud of my bag even if it has a few wonky lines 🙂
Thank you again, the tutorial was perfect and gave me the confidence to make my own bag.
Oh Helen, Thank you so very much for commenting! It makes me feel so good you were able to make a tote1
Hi! This simple pattern has been fantastic to make, me and my mum have made a few now of various sizes and shapes and are currently making one for my grandma for her birthday! Thanks for the easy to follow tutorial, great work!
Amy
This bag is so quick and cute! The little darts at the bottom add just the right dimension. Many thanks!
This has become my favorite thing to make and give as a gift! I use deco fabric from JoAnn’s, half yard each of two coordinating fabrics. I cut four inches off the top for the straps (making them a little shorter) and use the remaining fabric for the bag, so very little waste (except for the extra four inches from the other fabric, could make a small pocket?). I make the bottom wider by sewing three to four inches on the pinch. I’ve even made little “gift” bags with single handles made from lighter weight material to put the big bag in when I give it as a gift. I’m so glad I found this tutorial!
I used your awesome tutorial this afternoon to make a child-size tote for a friend’s grand-daughter. I added a coordiating fabric to make a band across the top, embroidered her name on it and put a pocket on the back. It is just adorable! Thanks for making this so easy!( I’ll send a photo if you tell me where to send it.)
Have just made the tote bag so pleased with the easy instructions.I am new to sewing and this is my first achievement with my new sewing machine!
I will be making some more for gifts.Thank you so much.
Love Angela x
That makes me so happy Angela!
I love this, thanks so much. First time I tried it I put the inside in the wrong way round… then I left the straps outside rather than inside, resulting in them behind hidden when the bag was the right way round,hehe. Managed it in the end, just need to work on improving my shabby sewing!
Your tutorial was awesome! I’ve made 7 of them and everyone loves them. It’s so nice to give a gift in a personalized tote bag (and good for the environment!). The only thing I add is a pocket or two to both outside and lining. Thanks!!
I’m fairly new to sewing, but had some fabric that I particularly wanted to make a bag with. I’ve made it today, and am really pleased with how it turned out. I’m feeling pretty proud of myself! Your instructions were straightforward and easy to follow, thanks very much for your post.
I have just completed a bag as per your tutorial and am thrilled with it. I have made simple bags in the past but your method was much simpler and very professional looking! Thank you.
I am a beginner sewer i was really excited to try this,unfortunately i didt fully understand the part where you have to construct the straps and stitch top of bag,i stiched all the way round thing the small gap left for turning was the only opening needed,
I made this bag with iron on stiffener on the wrong side of the outside layer (front and back) notching out the lower corners of the stiffener for the diagonal bottom corner stitching so it wouldn’t be too bulky. Came out great – thank you!
Just wanted to say that I have just made this bag and I am sooooo pleased with it. Your instructions were excellent, so clear and easy to follow. Thank you from across the seas in Belgium.
Well I’ve done it! Thanks to your fabulous instructions! I’m thrilled to bits with my pink tote bag. It’s a small one. I adjusted the sizes. I love it! Thankyou so much!
Thankyou for these wonderful instructions and photos! I am making this bag my first project with my new little sewing machine! I am a beginner so fingers crossed! I will let you know how I get on. It may take a while!!!
I just bought my first sewing machine on the weekend. I’m going to try this when I get home. My first project!! Thanks so much for providing a free, easy pattern for beginners. You rule!
Thank you so much for this tutorial. It popped up first during my Google search and was exactly what I was looking for.
Betty Love
Just made the bag…it is awesome. Thank you for sharing!
I am new at sewing and came across your adorable tote bag. I understand everything except where to leave the opening to turn the bag inside out. Do they have a sewing for idiots book? lol I wonder if you could explain that part one more time.
And if I were to put a batting liner, to make it sturdier, does that get sewed to the liner. In other words the outside of the bag gets sewn good sides facing each other, the liner is also good facing each other….where do i put and sew the batting? LOL
Sorry to bother you. I understand if you can’t help me. I should have picked an easier hobby. LOL
Mary Ann
This is amazing and So very easy to understand thank u! I havé made to today ,i cant see to stop you can check it out here http://mymusecomesandgoes.wordpress.com/2013/02/10/diy-tote-bag/
Happy sunday
I am going to use this tutorial today. My daughter is making first night bags for foster kids for her senior project. This tote is perfect. Thank you so much for giving us a place to go.
Nice work…i wanna try at home..
tokoabdullahonline.blogspot.com
Very cute and easy to make. The possibilities are endless to create your own unique and one of kind tote!!!
Thank you SO very much for this wonderful tutorial. I started a Bible study that has a lot of materials and ‘homework’ and needed something to keep them contained. I ran across you tutorial and it couldn’t have been more perfect. I love the wonderful pictures and the instructions were spot on. Thank you, thank you!!! I was the perfect morning project.
Here is a picture of it for you…
http://www.flickr.com/photos/[email protected]/8392540997/
Your bag is totally adorable! Thank you for sharing it with me. Love it.
Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful tutorial.as beginner this is exactly what i need…hope can make this bag “successfull”..wish me luck:-)
Thank you so much for the tutorial. It was easy to follow and my bag turned out very cute.
I’m not much of a 3-dimensional sewer (I can sew a baby quilt because it’s 2-dimensions). Your tutorial was so easy. I used it to make hula fabric bags for my daughter’s hula halau. You can see how they turned out here: http://organized31.blogspot.com/2013/01/hula-fabric-bags.html.
Thanks for your tutorial and help!
Thanks So Much- my bag turned out great!
Thank you much! I’ve been on the brink of buying a cute chevron tote on etsy. I used your tutorial and whipped up my own yesterday. I cut my fabric 14in x 18in to make a little bigger and used webbing for handles instead of fabric. I also appliqued a burlap “a” on it. What awesome instructions! Thank you!
I made one of these this week end for my daughter (we added a simple patch pocket to the front, as well). I was a little hesitant, but this tutorial is so easy to follow. The end result is simply darling! (
I LOVE this pattern! Thanks so much for sharing. I am new to sewing, and I found this very easy to follow. I will be making many more of these in the future. 🙂
Thank you for this fantastic tutorial!!! It was EXTREMELY easy to follow and the tote bag turned out great. Thank you.
many tnx that was so easy 🙂
Wow, this was a godsend. After initially resisting making crafty gifts for Christmas, I decided last minute to make some goodies for the girls in the family, and needed something quick and cute. This is PERFECT. Thank you so much for helping me to get over my Grinchyness. This will be my go-to quickie bag from now on!
For those wondering about the “pinch corners together” part… What you want to do is create a “gusset” at the bottom of the bag to make a flat bottom. Just take a good look at the picture on step #5. It shows it more than step #4 for beginners. Just feel confident and see what she’s done. Take your hand inside the bottom corner to be sure your layers are together, then turn it so the bottom seam is facing you and is centered in the fabric as you look at it. Do you see how it makes a point? It should look like what you see on image #4. Now, simply sew that line as she shows you, and you will have a nice flat bottom to your bag. If you still cannot see it, I would recommend examining one at a discount store and seeing what one looks like ready made, so you can get a better idea… it is a little tricky to describe.I warn you this will be addictive! I’m making one now that is quilted and has little pockets for pens and cell phone, etc. You’ll be doing that soon with tutorials like this! Very well made tutorial! 😀
Hi! I just made this totebag, I’m very happy with the result! Thank you for this tutorial 😀
Great tutorial! Thank you so much!
Katy, with the pinching of the corners, I took that to mean we need to bring the side seam to the bottom seam at the corners in order to make the bottom of the bag flatish. The ‘pinching’ pulls out the fabric between and makes those triangles. I hope I didn’t make it more confusing…
Awesome!!! I wanted to make a little back to hold my niece’s new nook. This was perfect (with some size adjustments). I also added a button to help keep the tote closed. Thanks so much!
so thanks.
its very nice and beautiful.
i want to sew for my mom!
I really like this bag but I am struggling with the bottom corners and what you mean when you say to pinch in the corners. Any chance anyone could clarify or explaing further what this means. Must just be me not quite understanding what I am trying to do.
Thanks
Great tutorial! I just whipped up one of these bags in 30 minutes. I will use it as a gift bag for a baby quilt I just finished. Thanks!
Thank you so much for you great tutorial. I made 4 of these this weekend and I plan to make more for Christmas. Keep up the good work!!
Adorable! I’ve been on a “de-stashing” kick lately, and was looking for an easy way to use up some of my fabric collection. I love this. So simple and quick and easily modified. Thank you!
So I am going to attempt to make this bag today as my first real sewing project but I a having trouble conceptualizing step #3. Does this basically just mean fold the corner over on itself? Also what is a top stitch? Is that like a regular stitch? Any clarification is appreciated. Thanks!
Great,easy instructions for such a cute and functional bag. This will be perfect to use up some fabric I have taking up space in my craft closet. Thinking of making a bunch of these in various sizes throughout the year and selling them at our church craft boutique. Thanks so much for sharing!
Hi. So can you explain the “pinch corners together” step a bit more? I’m just not understanding that one. Looks like a great project.
Hi, I made my first tote bag last night and posted the result on my blog at carolyncrowndesigns.wordpress.com. Thanks so much for the tutorial. All the pictures were really helpful!
I love the bag…Mine turned out perfect except for those bottom corners…I just can’t seem to get mine to do right…any suggestions?
Thank you so much! Fantastic tutorial – I love all the pictures. I finished my first bag today; it looks really great. One suggestion I’d make is to cut the excess fabric off the bottom corners after you’ve completed Step 4 – just to reduce the bulkiness in the corners a little.
Great step by step directions!
Wow – great tutorial! I made my very first totebag last night and was so imrpressed with how it came out. Your tutorial was very easy to follow and very precise. I can’t wait to make my next one! Thank you!
Wow! What clear, concise directions!
Now I feel confident to make some totes.
I’ve seen cute ones made with oilcloth, feedsacks, etc.
and lined with fabric.
Thank you!
I’ve just added this to my do list! Tutorial is great and fabric choices are beautiful! Found you via Random Thoughts…do or “di”
I made this today in under 3 hours (my first bit of sewing since textiles AS level back in 2005). I did make 2 mistakes (both with where to put the straps), but that was down to me not reading it properly. Great tutorial, thanks a lot 😀
Really easy to follow instructions, I am a total sewing novice and I had a great looking bag in no time despite choosing a suede effect fabric for the outside which wasn’t the easiest to work with but it looked great teamed with a floral ditsy print lining….I know what I will be making everyone for Christmas!!
Thanks vry much for great directions!!
I made my straps 44” long each. I’m 5’7” and it doesn’t drag on the floor when I walk with it in my hand, and my arm down. I just LOVE this tutorial!!
Thanks so much! Super easy to follow! I will be making this again!
Thank you so much for your fantastic bag pattern, I just made it and it turned out even better than I expected. Your pattern was so easy to follow one of the easiest I have found and I looked at a lot of different patterns, your amazing!!!
Loved your choice of fabric too!!!
I just used this as my very first project on my brand new sewing machine! I made mine a little smaller because I was just using some scrap material I picked up to practice on but it tuned out great! Thank you!
Great tutorial..! Never made my own handmade reversible totebag, but looking at your tutorial makes me want to try it..
I just used this tutorial to make a sweet little bag for my friend’s grandson. I added him name to the front for an extra touch. The instructions were very clear and I love how the straps are concealed…..Love your site. Thanks a bunch!!!
Dear Cindy
You’ve just helped me solving the mountainhigh problem of how to sew in the straps. Gosh, such a tote bag seems to be so easy – but I surely couldn’t have done it without your help. Thank you very, very much.
Kind and happy greetings from the Frankfurt area in Germany
Christiane
So happy it helped you Christiane! I used to live outside of Dusseldorf. I love Germany!
Hi, Just wanted to say thanks for the tutorial I signed up for your web site beause the instructions were so clear, High five and I just love the reversable tote bag.
Hello, thank you for this very useful tutorial. I will post the result of following your steps. Thank you!
Nice post. I worked with it and the outcome was great. Thanks for the great tutorial.
Thank you for this tutorial. This was the 1st bag I ever made. I just published a link back to this post from http://notyournormalsteam.wordpress.com/2012/08/31/never-say-never-bags/
Just made this and it turned out adorable! I modified the pattern slightly to add a pocket to the inside and the outside in the opposite fabrics, and it looks pretty good. Thank you for the well-written and clear tutorial!
Can I get a print version of this bag? my mom does not have a computer
and would like a copy.
Love this bag! Just wondering if you could give us the final dimensions of the bag?? Thanks so much! I cannot wait to make a few!
Hi Cindy:
I am going to make this pattern for the tote bag. Did you know you have the best and clearest tutorial I have ever seen. And there are a lot out there. Hope this encourages you.
Thank you by the way.
Heather
Thanks Heather! Your comment does encourage me!
nevermind I see the instructions
I am wondering how to you turn inside out if the fabric is sew together
I just made this bag and it is my first sewing project – ever! It looks amazing!!! Thank you for the easy-to-follow instructions!!
This is one of the best tote bag tutorials I’ve seen.
I am brand new to sewing but would love to try this because you make it look so easy! However, I was wondering what type of fabric you used and how much you would recommend me getting from the craft store? Thanks so much!
I agree! Great, easy tutorial and I’m new to sewing and this is actually something I can do! I’m most excited about learning an easy way to make the handles! They always bum me out! Thanks!
I used your tutorial and thought it was great! I have started posting “Terrific Tutorials” and yours was the first. It was so easy to use and my bag turned out great. I am very proud of it so I had to show it off!
Wow. I JUST started sewing last week by making two fun pillows. So this is my third-ever project. It was SUPER easy. My top-stitching isn’t so brilliant, but I love it all the same. I used a colorful pattern on the outside and a bright blue on the inside. I’m a law student, and my aim was to make this bag to carry one law book and one notebook. Well, unfortunately we have huge books and this bag just isn’t big enough. I guess I’ll have to make another one! 🙂
Wish I had seen this site before I spent many hours using a bag pattern I found in a magazine. This is a much more user friendly pattern and technique with a great looking finished tote. I look forward to making several!
Thank you very much,i really enjoy the pattern is nice and i’m gonna try it now. thanks so much.
Thank you for sharing! I’ve been looking for something like this to make a basket liner for my beach cruiser, that I can take out when I’m going in somewhere. This is perfect so I can take my basket measurements and make a liner that fits and converts to a bag! Thanks again!!
THANK YOU!! This tutorial is wonderful and I am SO happy with the way my bag turned out:)
Thank you so much! That’s very generous of you to share this.
It made the process much easier and quick.
All the best!
Thank you so much for this tutorial. I have just finished my first bag ever, in fact this was my first own sewing experience. Fantastic bag. 🙂
I just made 2 bags for a friend’s granddaughters aged 4 and 2 (not having any myself!), adjusting the size downwards for the 2 year old. I quilted the outside fabric with some cotton wadding, added pockets inside and out and embellished them with ribbon trims and buttons. I also slightly stiffened the straps with iron on interfacing. I think they look great – hope the girls will love them too. Many thanks for the tutorial. I rather fancy having a go at the crayon roll next…..
Thank you so much for this tutorial! It’s so straightforward and easy to follow! I love the finished product too! 🙂
Fianlly got the bag correct and I love it!! Now I am going to make 5 more for my bridesmaids, but going to add a pocket and a closing feature!
Thanks soo much for this tutorial!!
Method of sewing fabric portfolio for mobile
Made this for my sister’s birthday. WalMart had a lot of material on clearance for $2 a yard. I added heavy iron on interfacing on all pieces. put of piece of corrugated plastic (Lowe’s) in the bottom and embroidered her initial on the outside and inside. Now it is does not collapse. Cute, Cute, Cute. Thanks for easy instructions!!
So far I love the tutorial! Everything turns out beautiful until # 7. I am very new to sewing and would love to make this bag for my daughter. When I get to the turning of #8 the top is sewn shut. My tips on what i am doing wrong. For number 7 do you sew arounf the bag to close the top or stitch right across all 4 pieces of the bag? Thanks!
very nice
thank you so much
I just wanted you to know that I found your site a month ago or so when I was going to make a reversible bag and needed some guidance. I made one and LOVE it thanks to your pattern. Today I came back to your site to make another one! I love it even more! Both the bags I’ve made I made the handles longer and on the sides to make them sling bags but thanks to your great instructions the bags look great! THANKS!
Thank you for this brilliant tutorial! I’m a beginner at sewing and wanted an easy bag pattern. This fits the bill to a tee! I’ve made 2 up to now. They don’t take too long to make, a project for a rainy afternoon.
Thank you once again!!
Thank you for the wonderful tutorial. I’m a beginner at sewing and you made this very easy for me. I am SO happy with my bag! It only took me about an hour to make the whole thing. It’s beyond adorable!!!
I just finished making 2 totes for my pre-school age grandsons, using “boy fabrics” of course. They are preparing to move to a new city and I thought it would be great if they each had a “travel bag” to put all their prized possessions (cars and trucks) into, along with some treat, crayons, books, etc. to keep them busy during the move. The tote bags turned out really cute and the boys loved them! Thanks for the easy to follow instructions.
Such a great tutorial. Very well eplained and the photos are wonderful!!! I’m going to make one of these cute totes for my neice. Thank you so much for sharing!
Hello,
I recently(yesterday) found your tote bag on the internet. I got excited about them because I want to make a tote for my bridesmaids. I had some extra fabric so I decided to try it torday. Well, I am stuck on Step 5. Maybe I am a little slow but I dont know for the step if i am suppost to turn one with the patterns on the outside then stick it in the one you do not turn over yet. Or am I suppost to place a unturned (pattern on the inside) piece inside the other. If you can please get back to me when you have a chance.
Thank You,
Catherine
Thanks for posting this tutorial. This is the first bag I’ve ever made. The instructions were clear enough for a beginner like me. Thanks again!
Thanks a lot. It is very clear!
Thank you so much for your tutorial, i found the step by step (with pictures ) so easy and clear. I will try the zipped purse next x
I have just made one of these bags from oil cloth with a fabric lining. I wasn;’t able to do the turn out like you said but with a bit of patience, it’s all gone together beautifully and I love it! Picture this: Navy blue oil cloth with white spots lined with cerise fabric with white spots! It looks brilliant! xxxx
Hey I was hoping you would give me your honest opinion and check out my bags on http://bagsunique.ie
and share my facebook page with friends.
https://www.facebook.com/BagsUnique.ie
Let me know what you think?
Thanks
i am 11 and am looking for a present to make for my mum and the tote bag is so beautiful! i do love to sew and this is a great idea!
from Matilda
Hi! Thank you for the tote bag! You have provided easy to follow instructions with wonderful and clear photos. I really appreciate the instruction. I am new to the sewing world. You have made this so easy. Thank you very much!
This was so much fun to make! I am a nocvice sewer and had no problem at all except for the fact that I made the bag much bigger (18″ across the bottom and 15″ up the sides with straps long enough to be slung across the chest) and followed the instructions to leave a 2/3″ hole to turn the bag out. Well, I had SUCH a challennge getting all that fabric through that tiny hole! Next time I will leave a 3″ opoening. I can’t wait to make my next one! Thank you!!
made mine today! thank you for the tute!
Thank you so much for the great tutorial! I found it on Pinterest and couldn’t wait to try it out. I’m just learning how to sew and still managed to make this successfully thanks to your clear instructions. I can’t wait to try some of your other tutorials now! I’m thinking maybe the lined, zippered pouch next. I put some pictures of my finished bag on my blog if you’d like to see it. Thanks again for all the work you put into these tutorials. It makes it so much easier for a newbie like me to learn some skills without having to invest in a mountain of books (and probably still be lost).
Thank you for the great bag tutorial! Just made a bag as a gift for a paris themed birthday party and it turned out quite cute! Thank you so very much!
This is the best tote bag instruction, thank you so much for the simplicity you made it such a pleasure to make,
I made 15 of these for my daughter to give as gifts to bridesmaids etc. at her wedding. She loved that they were in her colors and was something unique for her special people. It was so popular that my niece also asked for 10 for her wedding. My daughter does a lot of traveling and uses them to sort her clothes, make-up, undies etc. in her suit case. She actually puts whole outfits that she has to wear in a bag. I am visiting her and am making some more and forgot my notes which I need as it has been a couple years. I really appreciated finding your web site so I could review the layering technique with the lining and handles! THANKS
Thanks very much for this tutorial. It’s really easy to follow. I’ve used it 3 times now to make bags for birthday gifts. Thanks!
Hi…
I just love this tutorial. I have just finished my second one as gifts for a couple of little girls that are coming for a sleepover from my daughters 8th birthday. Just 3 more to go now.
Thanks for such a great site.!!
Do you have instructions for easy tote/purse with zipper and pcckets. If so would love to get that as well. This tutorial was very helpful. Thanks so much!!
Rose
Thank you for your tutorial! The bag came out really well. It’s my first sewing project I’ve ever done. I finally got around to using the machine I’ve had for years and also use some old table linens. I’m still not quite sure I did the corners right, but it looks okay to me!
Hi…loved your bag!!! Very very simple and turns out just Greaet!!! I have been cutting out a bunch as I am part of a group of ladies who make items for the community. We will be filling these bags with necessities and treats for ladies who are much in need at christmas!!! Thanks so much!
Your tutorial was very easy to follow. From cutting to sewing it took me under 2 hours to make using a very sturdy material. I’m going to change the dimensions to make the tote larger and replace all my shopping bags.
I always iron along the way and found it helpful especially when lining up the seams to make the corners for the bottom. Thanks so much!
Made this VERY CUTE bag this evening- I could not be more excited about how cute it turned out and how quickly I was able to put it together! New to sewing, but very inspired by this turning out so adorable! Thanks!
thanx a lot for this gorgeous tutorial!
it was very helpful and made it so easy!
hugs and kisses from germany,
silvi xoxo
I just wanted to say thank you for this tute!!!! I saw this on You Tube and it was so confusing, and each segment lasted about a minute and could not find the next step to work on….I was so upset and liked it so. Well, now I see this and u did a great job and cannot wait to do it now. Going to make a quick tote for a lady that loves dogs and retiring and she will be able to take it to the dog shows and all. Thank you so much for doing a great job here and so great…..It is people like you that make it great to be a quilter and able to share!!!!!
Love this! Made mine today and was very easy to follow. Thanks very much 🙂
Thanks for showing how to sew this bag, the instruction was clear
Yes, what Sara says is correct!
Also, I find ironing them before measuring/stitching to be extremely helpful. Actually, although some people find it annoying to do it, I find ironing almost every step of every project to be invaluable as it produces a very professional, polished looking end product.
To make the bottom even, once you’re lined up the seams and ironed the corners, measure up from the point to 1.5 inches (for this tutorial) and draw a line (where you’ll stitch) and use the same measurement on each corner of the outside and the lining.
I found this tutorial to be so easy and the finished product is excellent! (I’m a novice sewer, btw)
I find that lining up the seams works for me.
I have been on a bag-making binge lately – bulk food bags, tote bags, bags to hold bulk food bags, etc. The tote I made last week had a different construction for making the bottom dimensional (and probably wouldn’t work as nicely if a lined one), and when I found your tute I thought I’d try it this way too- options are good! Love the cute fabric you used, by the way. Yes, it is certainly an easy bag, but there was one part that was annoyingly fiddly & time-consuming, and that was where you “simply” pinch the corner so you can sew across it to make the box shape at the bottom. Is there some magic way to do this simply & accurately? I’m pretty good with fiddly little things, but this just seemed to be harder that I thought it should be, to get it nice & flat AND symmetrical, before stitching across. Any tips? Or is it simple practice? In the end I was quite pleased with my bag, but I would love if that step had some tricks to make it easier. Thanks!
can you sugest any fabrics?
what fabric did you use?
I LOVE this project! I agree with everyone else that the instructions were very easy to follow, and the completed project is terrific! Very easy and quick, and so customizable.
For one bag, I added a strip of fabric to one side and sewed up 2 parts to make a 3 piece pocket. This works as an outside pocket on one side, and if reversed it becomes an inside pocket. I’m giving this as a gardening bag, and wanted a pocket to help hold some tools. Here’s a link to a picture of this bag: https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-yuPcqLoFuKY/Ty65mxlnqHI/AAAAAAAAA3o/5CU02fnI9i0/s640/gardenbag.JPG
Another bag I did was for my daughter, who loves pink. Thought she could use this for books, or toting small amounts of groceries, etc. I added a couple of pieces of ribbon and a pretty buckle clasp – as decoration, as well as a way to sort of close the top of the bag. This works on both sides of the bag – just flip it to the opposite side and run one side of the ribbon over the center of the clasp to secure. Here’s a link to a pic of that bag: https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Wr62F1-d8vA/Ty65nWS2YII/AAAAAAAAA3s/gJebNvCM7-U/s640/jensbag.JPG
I know I will be using this pattern more. Thanks so much creating and posting this :^)
What a fantastic tutorial, so easy to follow, with wonderful results. I am very new to sewing, but really enjoyed making this bag, will be making lots more – Thank you for posting this tutorial
Loved this – easy to make. I changed it by using an old fabric belt for the handle, and making it run from seam to seam as a long over the shoulder type one.
I love this! Just learning how to sew and this looks like something I might be able to do on my own, thank you so much for sharing. =)
I am 16 and I have probably only used a sewing machine 5 times in my life. This bag was so easy to make!!! I made it for a bag for my school books and it looks GREAT! Instead of 13 1/2 by 14 inch rectangles I did 20 by 17 inch rectangles and a 2 inch corner stitch. I also only did one long strap which I attached at the side seems. I love it and I think I will be using this for Christmas presents this coming year!!! Also, (to anyone who doesn’t sew very often) I couldn’t really wrap my head around the concepts from step to step at first but I did exactly as it said I didn’t mess up once. They really are easy step to step instruction.
Hello!
I made three bags recently, and I modified your instructions to account for my mistakes. 🙂 Here they are; feel free to use them, if you want.
— Lea
You will need:
2 pieces fabric 14 1/2 inches X 16 inches (outside)
2 pieces fabric 14 1/2 inches X 16 inches (lining)
1 piece 4” X about 44″ long, or 2 pieces 4″ x 28” long (longer straps)
The Straps
1. Press strap 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.
The Bag
Sew lining fabric right sides together on three sides and also outer fabric right sides together on three sides.
Pinch bottom corner together and stitch across 1 1/2 inches from corner. Repeat until all four corners have been sewn. Press long sides open.
Turn lining fabric right side out. Pin straps to right side of lining fabric, matching edges, about 2-3 inches from the side seam. Make sure the straps are oriented the same way.
Insert lining and straps into outside of bag (which is still inside out). Pin straps and top edge of bag well. Stitch around top of bag 1/2 inch from edge. Leave a 2-3 inch (no less!) opening for turning bag. I usually leave the opening on the side.
Turn bag inside out. 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.
Just whipped up 3 of these bags today for a new family at our church that has 3 little girls. The mom came up to me after church on Sunday and asked how I got my kids to sit so nicely (she caught them on a good day), I told her that each had a church bag. When I woke up this morning I said to my husband that I wanted to make the girls each a bag…he said that it was a good idea. I used your tutorial over a year ago to make trick or treat bags for my kids. So quick & easy! Thanks!
Hi,
I also made my first bag with your tutorial! Thank you, thank you, thank you. It was very easy with your explaination and pictures! My three little girls ara all waiting for there own now, so I know what tho do with my sewing machine and fabrics! Again, thank you so much!
Kind regards
Francesca
This was the first project I made with a sewing machine. I’m 48, and my partner got me one for Christmas. (I’d asked for one, after years of watching Project Runway.) Anyway, this seemed doable, and it turned out quite nicely. No one will mistake it for Louis Vuitton, but it’s something I could take out in public. Thanks!
Thank you so much for this tutorial! It was so clear and easy to understand, even for a novice sewer like me. I needed a tote bag to lug my books and stuff to school and thought, surely I can make one myself and then after messing up on my own I found this and I did it! Thank you!!!
Just finished making this tote. What fun , so easy and it turned out great. These make great gifts and now with plastic bags being banned all over the place they are very handy too!!!!!
Hi… I just made two tote bags from your tutorial and I love them. Very easy and simple, the results are so pretty. Both of my girls love their new tote bags. Thank you…! Keep sharing and happy sewing…
Just made my first tote bag today using your tutorial as a guide. It was very easy to follow. Thanks so much!
I love this pattern – I attempted my first tote today and it tote’s came out awesome! I changed it around a bit to be able to make use of the fabric I had laying around, let me know what you think! http://elizamiddleton.wordpress.com/2011/12/11/rainy-sundays/#
@Sanaya for step #5 you take the 2 peices of fabric that are the same pattern and sew 3 sides. you dont sew the top because that will be the opening of the bag. thats the best i can explain it. im not sure if you cheaking anymore but tried to help good luck
Thank you so much for this tutorial. I haven’t sewn in awhile and the visauls really help. I’m making bags for my X-mas gifts! Aloha!
excellent instructions…easy and fast…did in an hour!!! i made 20 x 17 bag with 23 inch straps (made of cord) with 2 inch triangle corners. definitely will use this again. thanks!
This was so easy. Following the step by step instructions made it very simple. I’m on the second one. Great for Christmas gifts especially since grocery bags are now frowned upon in our city.
I just made my first tote and only my second sewing project following these instructions. Turned out great! Your directions were super clear and easy to follow. Thank you so much!
I am making the reverible tote as your clear, easy instruction convienced me I could do it. I am half way through. Thanks to your site my daughter will be getting xmas this year – homemade. thanks again.
thank you so much. I was all over the make a tote sites last night and hesitant to make the tote but then I remembered your site which I recently found and whola – there you were with clear, easy instructions for a tote. I am half way through it and it is actually looking soooo nice. Thank you so much as I am making it for my daughter for xmas as well as other items, all making from your site. I appreciate your so clear instructions as I am not talented in this but thought I’d try as funds are short this year and all my items are being homemade from fabric I have on hand and they are looking pretty good so far. thank you so much.
Just made this bag. Love this tutorial and all the others. Thank you for sharing your talents.
LOVE this tutorial ! Sew very easy to follow , I am planning on making several for gifts.
Just made my first bag, not only was it easy but it was also fun to do… Thank you for the simple instructions
Wow I have already made two of these. The only thing I did was add a ruffled pocket (inspired by Mommy by Day Crafter by Night: http://mommybydaycrafterbynight.blogspot.com/2011/08/ruffled-tote-tutorial.html). Your instructions were perfect to follow with all the pictures needed to understand what to do. You just saved me an entire sewing class! Thank you!
I like the helpful info you provide in your articles. I’ll bookmark your weblog and check again here frequently. I’m quite sure I will learn lots of new stuff right here! Best of luck for the next!
I just finished this bag yesterday. Thanks for the easy to understand instructions. My bag is so cute, my boyfriend didn’t know that I made it myself when I showed him. I just started sewing and this is my second bag, but aside from the fact that my lining was a teensy big larger than the outside bag, it came out really well! Thank you thank you thank you! I can’t wait to make this again (and cut better the next time)!
Here’s my bag: http://aimlessknitter.com/2011/10/reversible-tote-bag/
http://buffaloeggs.blogspot.com/2011/10/nap-time-crafting-trick-or-treat-bags.html
Here is my version of your bag. Thanks again for taking the time to write this tutorial.
Hello, Just wanted to say thank you so much for this tutorial! I found this post over a year ago and didn’t think I was good enough to give it a shot an make it look good, but tonight I finally gave it a shot. I made a trick or treat bag for my daughter. It has a few mishaps but still looks nice. Tomorrow night I’m going to make another one for my son! I have so many plans for more bags with different prints! <3<3<3 Thank You!
I am so glad you are having success! Enjoy.
How to bag a big bag with inside pockets, zipper, step by step?
I’m from Brazil and I don’t speak English very well.
Thank you for your attention.
Have just made 3 bags for Christmas presents, thankyou so much they look really great. The material I got in a charity shop for £1.50 and the lining I paid 50p. I loved making them as I’ve just got a new sewing machine and need the practise.
Thank you for sharing this tutorial.! It is very well written and easy to follow. I am using it to make customized trick-or-treat bags for my son’s friends. I will link to your tutorial when I blog my project.
Loving your choice of fabric. It’s such a happy looking fabric.
First of all, love the pattern that you used. Just looking at it made me smile. Second, this tutorial is so easy to follow, it’s awesome. Thanks for this.
Hi, I’m new to sewing and I’m still a little unsure of how to do things but I love this bag and I’m trying to make it. I’ve reached step 4 but I’m a bit stuck on step 5. How do I place the 2 fabrics one inside the other (should both be inside out?) and how do I sew the seam (the one with the handles attached) so that the seam goes inside like yours does? Please can someone help me out.
Thanks.
My email id is [email protected] if anyone can give me an idea.
Hi, I really love this bag and I’ve just begun to sew and so I’m kinda new to this. I’ve finished upto step 4 but I’m a big stuck on step 5. please can you help me.
Just finished my 1st tote bag with these instructions and it came out great! Actually easy! Great step by step instructions !
Love this tutorial. Just wrote a post on my site-Ducks ‘n a Row– about tote bags, back packs for moms, etc and I am definitely sharing this link with my readers. They’ll love it!
Love this tutorial. Just wrote a post on my site about tote bags, back packs for moms, etc and I am sharing this link with my readers. They’ll love it!
trying to find you, can i have your facebook or twitter?
The link is on my blog on the left.
I made this bag and my friend did too! I wrote a post about it and linked back to your site. Your site really is amazing. I looked through tons and tons of tote bag tutorials and yours was the easiest to understand. Thanks so much for making this fun! Here’s the link to my post http://www.budgetblonde.com/2011/09/simple-sew-easy-reversible-tote-bag.html
xoxo
Cat @ Budget Blonde
Great job! I love the flower addition.
BRILLIANT! Thank you so much for sharing the best tutorial EVER! You explained this so well, it’s now easy for me to understand the inside/outside/lining process 😀 I’ve never seen instructions and pictures so clearly written and it inspires confidence that I can do it. I’m looking through fabric stash as soon as I hit submit.
This is the best pattern ever for beginners. I am so excited that my first sewing project turned out so nicely and now I have the confidence to try more.
Thanks so much!
Patte
Thank you so much i tried it and will be making a few more (al ready requested by family and friends. i will put up a video post at http://a1brown.blogspot.com ) by tonight
Thank you so much i tried it and will be making a few more (al ready requested by family and friends. i will put up a video post at http://a1brown.blogspot.com ) by tonigh
I’m not a crafts kind of girl and this was so incredibly easy to make. Great instructions, and the bags came out so well that all my friends want me to make more for them.
What a great idea! Thanks for the idea and the clear instructions!
This is the first thing I have ever sewn! I went pretty well, except I confused and my lining is showing the wrong side, but I really don’t mind. You can’t really… I will know what not to do next time! Thanks for the help…. I have many more projects in my future. 🙂 🙂 🙂
Great pattern and soooo easy. I made a purple paisley with a solid purple lining… so cute. Plan to make a larger one soon. Thanks so much !
Featuring this wonderful post on my “Walk Around Blog-Land” today!
http://estherscardcreations.blogspot.com/2011/07/walk-around-blog-land-8_18.html
I am curious which blogging and site-building platform you might be running? I’m new to running a blog and have been thinking about using the Tripod platform. Do you consider this is a good foundation to start with? I would be really grateful if I could ask you some questions through email so I can learn a bit more prior to getting started. When you have some free time, please be sure to contact me at: [email protected]. Thank you
I’m getting ready to try this out. My daughter’s preschool requires a tote of this kind, but there are size restrictions. Can anyone tell me what the finished size is?
I really liked these instructions. They were very clear and concise. Thank you!
I made one today! Thanks for the instructions!! I cut mine on the fold and made a pocket on the inside.
http://www.erikajean.com/2011/06/tote.html
Hello, I want to make a bigger bag, but I don’t know what measures must be there. Can you help me?
Thankyou for wonderful instructions. Just made one and i love it!!
Thank you so much for an easy to follow tutorial. I am just learning to sew and this was so easy!! I made a tote for my daughter’s teacher and it came out beautiful. I can’t wait to make another one 🙂
Thank-you for these very clear instructions. I have started making these for my residents at work (in an aged care home) for their knitting bits and pieces.
🙂
This is the easiest set of directions I have seen yet.
Thenk you, I think it makes a great gift bag. Then, the gift is especially nice.
I am going to make one to match the baby quilt I made for my nephew’s baby.
Sooooo easy and cute.
Thank you for sharring with us.
Cathy
Ms Gulf Coast
Just wondering if this would still work if the pieces of fabric were cut on the fold (bottom of bag)? I’m a lazy, novice sewer and that seems like it would work, but I’m over 40 and on a diet so my mind isn’t as sharp as it could be. 🙂
Just whipped up one of these this afternoon. Used oilcloth, and it’s such a cute summer tote! Tip for others using oilcloth…make sure the opening you leave when sewing the liner to the outside is big enough. I had a little trouble turning it. Thanks! Thinking about making a lot of these over the summer for teacher Christmas gifts! 😉
I made this bag today and am thrilled with it. Such an easy-to-follow tutorial with brief, concise directions! Thanks.
Thank you for this easy to follow tutorial! I’ve made both of my kids library book totes using your instructions 🙂
hi i am doing a textiles class and i need to make a simple bag, could anyone tell me if this one is easy? thanks a lot 🙂 if not could you reccomend one???? <3
This is explained and demonstrated well unlike many of the other sites I have come across. Beautiful bag. Soon will be stitching one for my daughter.
This tote was easy to make and has turned out to be very durable. My daughter has been using hers in full rotation for a year and it has been LOADED with crayons and books and hauled everywhere. Thank you so much. I am sewing another today for my son.
I loved these directions because they were so easy to follow. I do not sew often, but I followed the directions and the bag turned out great. I used some polka dot fabric on one side and striped on the other – Way cute!
As a beginner, I wanted to sew something simple. I was able to make this tote following your directions pretty quickly. Thanks!!
steps 5 thourgh 7 not clear at all
I LOVE that fabric. Perfect tutorial, I’ve been wanting to make a tote for a while now. Thanks for sharing it.
Thank you so much for publishing this terrific and easy tutorial! I have linked to your site on mine tonight, telling everyone what a great tutorial you have here and what a great site you have. Thank you – I can’t believe I made this!! 🙂
This is great. I linked to it at my blog: littleloveliesbyallison.blogspot.com.
fun and easy…..loved it. thanks for sharing!~
Awesome and most importantly, EASY tutorial for us beginner seamstresses! I made this bag for my sister and posted the pic on facebook and have had people asking me to sell them one! Also, when I am making other bags, I refer to this for instructions on how to make them reversible/lined. Thanks again! LOVE IT!
Thank you very much. I just finished my first reversible tote bag using your tutorial.
Thanks for the tutorial! I made a cute girly library book bag for a birthday gift–I think it’s my favorite of the projects I’ve made so far! Love it!
I made one of these, but with a pocket. This is a great tutorial. I’ve linked to this on my own blog. I hope you don’t mind.
Thank you!!!! I bought three different patterns and none of them were as simple as I wanted. I just finished making a couple of reversible totes. At first my brain didnt get it but then it did and NOW I am whipping out 8 more for Christmas presents. THANK YOU MERRY CHRISTMAS
I just started sewing today and my first project was this tote bag. It was so easy to sew and looks so cute – can’t wait to make more.
thank you, just made this and i’m really pleased with it!
Thanks so much for this tutorial! Like other people have commented, I also have very little sewing experience, and I tend to be afraid of new sewing projects…But I found your directions today and decided to go for it, and I did it! I made a darling little lavender flowered “purse” for my niece for Christmas! 🙂 It’s not perfect, but I doubt she’ll notice any flaws. The best part is that I already had the supplies on hand, so her gift was essentially free. Thanks again! 🙂
I love this bag and this tutorial! I have very little sewing experience and I was able to follow your tutorial and end result was a very cute well made bag! Thank you for such clear and easy to understand directions!
I’m making these as Christmas gifts for all the girls in my family, tailored to their favorite colors using some fun fabrics. Your instructions are super easy to follow and even modify to make a larger tote. Thanks!
Thank you so much for this. I haven’t sewn in ages…probably since jr high home ec 20 years ago!…but i just managed to sew a super-cute tote bag for my daughter to carry her choir gear in. I was even brave enough to add a pencil holder on the lining (just added a piece of the outside material and sewed a couple of long vertical lines about 1″ wide). I think it is AWESOME and I am so proud of myself! Thank you for helping even the domestically challenged of us create homemade things we can be proud of!
Thank you! I love your tutorial!!!
I absolutely LOVE this tutorial! Thank you for making the instructions so easy to follow 🙂
I just had to let you know I love this. As soon as I get 2 fabrics I like I am making this.
Also wanted to let you know I posted a link to my website. I hope you don’t mind? http://christinas-created-creations.blogspot.com/2010/09/i-came-across-this-today-and-i-just.html
Keep up the great work.
God Bless,
Christina
Thank you for this wonderful tutorial! I made a tote in a couple of hours and can’t wait to make a matching zippered pouch with your other tutorial. Your instructions are great and easy to follow. Thank you!!
This is super cute! I put a link on my blog: http://keethink.com/blog/2010/08/19/shes-crafty-and-link-love-reversible-tote-bag-skip-to-my-lou/
Now I’m thinking that when I make a baby quilt or other gift, I could gift it in a matching tote bag. How fun would that be?
I am looking for strapping and pretty inexpensive material or cloth strapping wholesale for the handles….I think braid would be could. Might you have a wholesale source…thanks so much….i am just getting started. are there wholesale supplies for thread and pins and trim that you know of….thanks again arline
Thank you for this awesome tutorial! I made a Gilmore Girls tote and I adore it. The tutorial was easy to follow and it didn’t take long at all to finish the tote. Score! 🙂
Great tutorial! Once again, you have astounded me. I need a little help on step 7, though. I don’t understand how we turn it inside out >.<. Bear with me; I'm starting out. Thanks!
I love your tutorial. I have made so many totes reversible and similar in style, but somehow each time I discover another tutorial I find that the coloring is the most inspiring bit. I love the fabrics! Thank you for sharing. I am going to use your sizing for my next tote, it sounds like a perfect size!
I love this tutorial. It was the easiest one I have ever come across. i was able to make 3 bags for my daughter’s teachers in 1 day. I love how they turned out! Thank you so much!
I just made this over the weekend! Thanks to the tutorial!! Here is the fruit of my labor:
http://simplyjenna.blogspot.com/2010/05/tote-aly-awesome.html
Thanks for the great idea!! I was thinking the other day how I need to make a bag to right size to attatch to our stoller for outings… I’m gonna use this concept, except make two straps, and put snaps on the top of the straps so I can take it on and of the stroller easily!
Hi…thank you so much for the tutorial…very easy to follow! More power to you…
This looks like a great tote bag and I can never get enough tote bags!
Thank you sooooooo much for your tutorials for the zipper pouch and tote bag!!!!!! I love your blog!
Made a tote bag with a few pockets ~ Great design, easy enough for a novice seamstress. I really appreciate you sharing the idea – Thank you!
I found your patttern while searching for an easy tote for a mixed group of ladies (from very skilled to novice stitchers and quilters ), we needed something simple for the newbies. We are making the bags for missionaries to shop with in a little mini-mart at missions conference in May. This year the gifts have to be smaller than last year when we gave sheets sets and towel sets along with some everyday school type supplies for the children. The economy has slowed everyone down, so this year we are giving cds, dvds,craayons, toothpaste, lotionn, books– you get the idea.. there will be about 120 bags given out, the adults will receive the bags, both spouses will get one (if married) and the adults will shop for the children. So far in 3 weeks meeting on Tesday mornings we have approx 70 bags made. Thank you for sharing!1
God bless you!!!!!
I came across your tutorial while looking for a cute tote I could use as a diaper bag. Your directions were very simple and pictures were very helpful. I just finished my bag in under an hour and am thrilled with the result. Thank you!
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.
As a novice sewer, your photos and directions were very helpful. I made the cutest bag last night. Thanks!
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!
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!
Thank you for this great tute! I linked it on my blog, http://creativelymom.blogspot.com.
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.
Your website has been invaluable to me. I am making bags for people for the holidays, and the step by step photos are fantastic. Thank you!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/alchemyjen/4123536581/
Thanks for the great instructions- I modified the dimensions to make a different shape bag, and it turned out beautifully! And it only took a couple hours total. I’ll want to make more in the future.
Fantastic tutorial! I haven’t sewn since high school and I managed to make one of these bags in about 2.5 hours. I made it as a first birthday gift for our friends daughter and filled it with cardboard books. They all commented on how lovely the bag was and were impressed when I said I had made it!
Thank you!!
Thanks for the great tutorial. I pulled out my sewing machine and dusted it off and whipped up one of these bags in about 2 hours.
Thanks for such easy to follow, clear pics. I found fabric and made a bag all in one day- that’s a miracle for me!
I love this. May I make a copy?
The top two photos in the instructions are not working..
I will bookmark in hopes the photos will start working again so I try this later !
excellent tutorial.
These are so, so cute and easy to make! I finally made one today and couldn’t believe how quick it was. Can’t wait to make many more!
This is the easiest to read instructional I’ve ever read. Thanks for such a great idea~
Great instructions for a cute bag! Too bad I can hardly thread a needle…
Thank you so much for the inspiration and the clear directions. I just made this for a friend’s birthday in linen, lined with quilting cotton with a little patchwork on the front to make it “gift-worthy.”
Fantastic!
I did it… miss zero sewing skills! thanks for your wonderful tutorial. It was as easy as mac and cheese!
Wow, this is fantastic, thanks so much! I’ll be linking.
I absolutely love this bag. I made one tonight, the instruction were great and very easy to understand!
Perfect tutorial! I have my fabric waiting to be made into something special. Your bag looks great & I think I’ll add a pocket or two. Thanks!
Great directions with good photos. I enjoy your blog.
☼Hope you’re having a sunshine ☼ filled Sunday!☼
How very cute!!! Love the fabric. I’m posting your blinkie on my blog. LOVE your site!
Great tutorial!!! I posted a link to it on Craft Gossip Sewing:
http://sewing.craftgossip.com/tutorial-reversible-tote-bag/2009/07/18/
–Anne
Fabulous tutorial…so easy to make!
I have just recently discovered crafting blogs and yours is definately emerging as one of my favorites! My list of to dos keeps growing. Now if someone could just come watch my kiddos so I could have time to sew all of your great projects. 🙂
this looks so simple. makes me want to try it. and i do not even sew. thanks..i am passing it along to my daughter for her to make one!
I love your tutorials! You have a wonderful teaching style!
I can’t wait to make lots of these!! This is my next project. This tutorial is so appealing!
I love that fabric! Could you tell the name of it and/or where you got it? I so am making one like that! Thanks so much for the clear & beautiful tutorial.
The fabric is from Heather Bailey. I used Pineapple Brocade in green and Zag Stripe in gold (I think).
Love this tute as well! I think this will be a great first bag to sew up! Thanks for all the great tutes!
Love the material. This is a simple bag I could make. I linked to it at somedaycrafts (dot)blogspot (dpt)com
Wow, what an AWESOME tutorial! I don’t want to miss any of your tutes now…
These are very simple instructions that even I think I can make one. Thanks for posting it!
Wow! That is super simple! I will definitely make some of these. I have been making bags for years and really hate how over complicated patterns can be sometimes. Love your blog! Thanks!
i love the extra detail…oike the corners here! awesome! thanks again for all the great ideas!
This was a very well done instructional. I love teaching my granddaugters to sew….this will be a perfect 4-H project for my ten year olds. Thank you.
Thank you for sharing this project. It looks adorable – great for gifts or shopping, knitting, small quilting projects. I really appreciate this.
Janet
You do the best tutorials. So easy to understand. Love it!
forget the directions…i’m LOVING the fabric!!!
Great tutorial…thanks for sharing!
What a cute idea!
Great bag. The directions look easy to follow, and it looks like a great idea for personalized Christmas presents. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for the simple, clear instructions. Love the fabrics you picked! Wonderful tutorial.
Super job showing this great project!