How to Sew a Tote Bag for Beginners: Fabric Choices
- Jun 17, 2022
- 2 min read
A tote bag is one of the best projects for a beginning sewist. It’s quick, it’s fun, and it’s easy. It’s highly functional-- you can use your DIY tote to carry groceries, library books, beach toys, or whatever!
Once you’ve learned how to sew a tote bag, you can adjust the project to meet your exact needs. You’ll be making bags for yourself and for friends before you know it!
The simplest tote bags will have a front, back, and two handles. Future customization options include:
Longer handles
Add a crossbody strap
Box the bottom
Add lining
Add outer pockets
Add inner pockets
Add closureAdd zipper
Add key tether
Choose your fabric
Select a woven (non-stretchy) fabric for your tote. Wovens are easier to cut, pin, and sew
because the fabric won’t stretch and shift. Avoid knits (like t-shirt fabrics), because they do
stretch.
Woven fabrics can vary in weight, which will affect durability. Depending on the look you want and the function of the bag, your choices will vary.
For a lightweight, packable tote, choose a quilting cotton.
Quilting cotton is a great choice for many reasons:
Easy to find- these fabrics take up a huge portion of the shelf space at your favorite fabric or hobby store. Even more options are available online.
Many, many color and print options- including bold colors, delicate patterns, and licensed prints from popular movies, shows, and books.
For a sturdy, long-lasting bag, choose denim.
Denim is another familiar and widely available fabric. If you’re interested in this option, check out the thrift store before visiting the fabric store. You’re likely to find plenty of secondhand denim that is ready for an upcycle. Another benefit of upcycling secondhand jeans: you can incorporate the existing pockets and other design features into your project!
One factor to keep in mind when selecting denim: pay attention to the thickness of the fabric. Choose an option on the thinner side. Thin denim will run through the sewing machine more easily.
Follow the experts
With less than a yard of fabric on hand, you can start cutting and sewing. Follow one of our three favorite tutorials:
What are your favorite uses for tote bags? Let us know in the comments!
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