Burlap is a coarse, woven fabric made from jute or hemp fibers. It is a popular material for a variety of applications, including home decor, gardening, and even fashion accessories.
One of the most common uses of burlap is in the creation of tote bags. Tote bags are essential for carrying items and are popular because they are durable and eco-friendly. This article will discuss how to make a tote bag from burlap.
Materials
Before we start, we need to gather the materials needed to make a burlap tote bag. The materials include:
- Burlap fabric
- Scissors
- Ruler or measuring tape
- Sewing machine
- Thread
- Pins
Each material is important in creating a burlap tote bag. Burlap fabric is the primary material, and it is necessary to have a sewing machine to sew the fabric together.
Scissors are needed to cut the fabric, and a ruler or measuring tape is necessary to accurately measure the size of the tote bag. Pins and thread are also needed to hold the fabric together.
Preparing the Burlap
The first step is to prepare the burlap fabric. Burlap is often stiff and coarse, so softening the fabric before using it is essential. You can do this by washing the fabric in cold water and drying it in the dryer. This will help soften the burlap and make it more pliable for sewing.
Creating the Pattern
Once the burlap is ready, the next step is to create the pattern for the tote bag. This step involves measuring the size of the tote bag and cutting the burlap to the appropriate size.
You will need to measure the tote bag’s length, width, and height and add half inch to each side for the seams. Once you have the measurements, you can draw the pattern on the burlap fabric using a marker or chalk.
Cutting and Sewing
After creating the pattern, it is time to cut and sew the burlap. Cut the fabric according to the pattern, and be sure to leave a half-inch seam allowance on each side.
Then, pin the fabric together, right sides facing each other, and sew the seams together using a sewing machine. Be sure to reinforce the seams by sewing them twice for added strength.
Adding Finishing Touches
The final step is to add the finishing touches to the tote bag. This includes adding handles and any other embellishments you may want, such as pockets or appliques.
To add handles, cut two strips of burlap fabric and sew them to the top of the tote bag on each side. You can also add a lining to the tote bag for added durability and a more finished look.
Conclusion
Making a tote bag from burlap is a simple and fun DIY project that anyone can do. It is an eco-friendly alternative to store-bought tote bags and a great way to show off your creativity.
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create your own burlap tote bag that is both stylish and functional. So why not try it and make a tote bag from Burlap today?
