Not many people know how to make a tote bag with a button closure, but it doesn’t have to be difficult.
Not only is a tote bag a useful item to carry groceries, books, or other essentials but adding a button closure can give your bag a unique and stylish touch. Plus, making your tote bag allows you to customize it to your size, fabric, and design preferences.
So, gather your materials, and start making your tote bag with a button closure!
5 Steps to Making a Tote Bag with a Button Closure

If you’re in need of a new tote bag, why not try making one with a button closure? It’s a fun and easy project that can be customized to suit your style and needs. This section will walk you through the steps to create your tote bag with a button closure.
Materials and Tools:
- Fabric (preferably canvas or a sturdy cotton material)
- Thread
- Sewing machine
- Scissors
- Ruler or measuring tape
- Iron
- Button
- Needle
Step 1: Choosing the Fabric and Cutting the Pieces
The first step in making a tote bag is to choose your fabric. Look for something sturdy and durable, such as canvas or heavy cotton.
Once you’ve selected your fabric, measure and cut two pieces the same size for the front and back of the bag and two smaller pieces for the sides. The size of the pieces will depend on how big you want your tote bag to be.
Step 2: Sewing the Bag Body
With the right sides together, stitch the side seams and the bottom seam of the bag. Make sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of each seam to secure the stitches. Next, create boxed corners for the bag by pulling the corners apart to form a triangle and stitching across the corner about 1 inch from the point. This will give the bag a flat bottom. Press the seams open.
Step 3: Adding the Handle Straps
To create the handle straps, cut two long strips of fabric that are the desired length and width for your straps. Fold each strip in half lengthwise with right sides facing and stitch along the long edge.
Turn the straps right side out and press them flat. Pin the straps onto the bag, ensuring they are evenly spaced and aligned with the top edge of the bag. Stitch the straps securely onto the bag, making sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of each strap.
Step 4: Creating the Button Closure
To make the button closure, cut a strip of fabric about 2 inches wide and twice the length of the bag’s opening. Fold the strip in half lengthwise with the right sides facing and stitch along the long edge. Turn the strip right side out and press it flat.
Fold the strip in half again so the raw edges meet, then stitch along the short edges to create a loop.
Pin the loop onto the bag’s top center, ensuring it’s centered and aligned with the top edge. Finally, attach a button to the center of the loop using a needle and thread.
Step 5: Final Assembly
To finish the tote bag, attach the button closure to the bag by sewing the loop onto the front of the bag and the button onto the back. Press the bag to remove any wrinkles and give it a professional finish. Lastly, quality check your tote bag to ensure it’s durable and can hold your items.
READ ALSO: How to Make a Tote Bag With a Snap Closure
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make a tote bag with a button closure, you can customize it to suit your needs and style. Use different fabrics, add pockets, or decorate it with embroidery or applique. With some creativity and imagination, you can make a one-of-a-kind tote bag that you’ll be proud to carry around.