Interested in knowing how to make a tote bag with a fabric handle? You’re in the right place!
While many types of tote bags are available in stores, making your own can be a fun and rewarding project that allows you to personalize the design and fabric to your liking.
This tutorial will guide you through making a tote bag with a fabric handle. With a few basic materials and sewing skills, you can create a durable and functional tote bag you’ll be proud to carry around. So, let’s get started!
How to Make a Tote Bag With Fabric Handle
Before we get started, let’s go over the materials you’ll need:
- Fabric for the tote bag
- Fabric for the handles
- Sewing machine
- Thread
- Scissors
- Pins
- Ruler or measuring tape
- Iron and ironing board
Now that you have your materials ready let’s begin!
Cutting the Fabric
The first step in making a tote bag with fabric handles is to cut the fabric. Start by measuring out the dimensions of your tote bag. The standard size for a tote bag is 14 inches by 16 inches, but you can adjust the size to fit your needs. Once you have your dimensions, cut out two pieces of fabric for the front and back of your tote bag.
Next, measure out the fabric for your handles. A good length for tote bag handles is around 22 inches. Cut out two strips of fabric for your handles.
Sewing the Tote Bag
Once you have your fabric cut out, it’s time to sew the tote bag. Begin by folding the two pieces of fabric for the front and back of the tote bag in half, with the right sides facing each other. Pin the sides and bottom of the fabric together, and sew a straight stitch along the edges, leaving the top open.
To make a boxed bottom for the bag, follow these steps:
- Open one of the corners of the bag and align the side seam with the bottom seam to create a triangle.
- Measure and mark a line 2 inches from the tip of the triangle.
- Sew along that line and trim off the extra fabric.
- Repeat on the other corner of the bag.
Making the Fabric Handles
Now that the tote bag is sewn together, making the fabric handles is time. Begin by folding one of the strips of fabric in half lengthwise, with the wrong sides facing each other. Press the fold with an iron to create a crease. Then, fold the two long edges in towards the center crease, and press again.
Fold the strip in half again, and press one more time. Sew a straight stitch along both edges of the handle, and repeat these steps for the other handle.
Once both handles are finished, it’s time to attach them to the tote bag. Pin each handle to the top of the tote bag, with the edges of the handle about 1 inch away from the bag’s side seams. Sew a square with an X through it to reinforce the handles, making sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of each seam.
READ ALSO: How to Make a Tote Bag With a Leather Handle
Conclusion
Congratulations, you’ve made your very own tote bag with fabric handles! Now that you have the basic technique down feel free to experiment with different fabrics, colors, and patterns to make your tote bag unique. You can also add pockets, zippers, or other embellishments to make it more functional.
Tote bags are a great way to reduce waste and show off your style. So, don’t be afraid to take your new tote bag out and enjoy its convenience and eco-friendliness!