If you’re looking for a versatile and practical bag that can carry your essentials wherever you go, a tote bag is a perfect choice. However, sometimes tote bags can be bulky and take up too much space when not in use.
That’s where a foldable design comes in handy! In this guide, we’ll show you how to make a tote bag with a foldable design, which can be easily folded and stored away when not in use, making it perfect for travel or everyday use. So let’s get started.
Materials Needed
- 1 yard of canvas fabric
- Sewing machine
- Thread
- Scissors
- Ruler
- Pins
- Iron
Step 1: Cut the Fabric
Start by cutting two rectangular pieces of fabric, each measuring 18 inches by 20 inches. These will serve as the body of the tote bag. Cut two additional pieces of fabric, each measuring 4 inches by 20 inches, which will serve as the handles.
Step 2: Sew the Body of the Tote Bag
Take the two rectangular pieces of fabric and place them right sides together. Pin the sides and the bottom of the fabric, leaving the top open. Sew the pinned edges using a ½ inch seam allowance. Trim the corners and turn the bag right side out.
Step 3: Make the Handles
Take the two pieces of fabric you cut for the handles and fold them in half lengthwise, with the right sides facing each other. Pin the long edge and sew using a ½ inch seam allowance. Turn the handles right side out and press them flat.
Step 4: Attach the Handles
Fold the tote bag in half lengthwise with the right sides facing each other. Measure 3 inches from each side of the bag and place a pin to mark the spot. Take the handles and attach them to the bag by aligning the raw edges of the handles with the pins. Sew the handles onto the bag using a ½ inch seam allowance.
Step 5: Create the Foldable Design
To make the foldable design, fold the bag in half lengthwise, bringing the handles together. Using a ruler and a fabric pen, mark a line 4 inches from the bottom of the bag on both sides. Sew along the marked line on each side of the bag, making sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of each line. Trim the excess fabric.
Step 6: Fold the Tote Bag
Fold the bag in half along the seam that you just sewed. Also, fold the handles down towards the bottom of the bag. Fold the bag in half again, this time bringing the handles together. The bag should now be in a compact size that can easily fit into a purse or suitcase.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
Press the bag with an iron to smooth out any wrinkles. You can also add any embellishments or decorations at this point.
ALSO READ: How to Make a Tote Bag With a Padded Bottom
The Bottom Line
To sum it up, making a tote bag with a foldable design requires patience, artistry, and a bit of creativity. Whether you’re crafting it as an activity for yourself or giving the finished product away as a gift, this type of project is rewarding and fun. With the right materials and instructions, you can easily make a tote bag with a foldable design. Give it a try! Who knows? Maybe creating amazing totes from fabric could become your newest hobby.