How to Make a Lined Flat Bottom Tote Bag

Have you ever wanted to create a stylish, practical tote bag that not only looks good but stands up on its own? In this guide, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process of making a lined flat bottom tote bag. This project is perfect for beginners and seasoned sewers alike, as it combines straightforward techniques with useful tips to achieve a professional-looking result. Whether you're looking to make a bag for your daily essentials or a gift for someone special, this detailed tutorial will equip you with everything you need to know. From choosing the right fabric to adding finishing touches, we’ll cover it all. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the world of tote bag crafting.

Materials and Tools Needed:

• Fabric: Choose a sturdy fabric for the exterior (e.g., canvas, denim) and a coordinating fabric for the lining.
• Thread: Match the thread color to your fabric.
• Sewing Machine: A standard sewing machine will work fine.
• Rotary Cutter and Cutting Mat: For precise cutting.
• Ruler and Fabric Marker: To measure and mark your fabric.
• Iron: For pressing seams.
• Pins or Fabric Clips: To hold fabric pieces together.
• Pattern Paper: To create your bag pattern.
• Bag Handles: Pre-made or handmade.

Step 1: Create Your Pattern

Begin by designing the pattern for your tote bag. You will need:

• Main Bag Pieces: Front, back, and bottom pieces. The dimensions will depend on how big you want your tote bag to be.
• Lining Pieces: Cut the same pieces for the lining.
• Handle Straps: Decide on the length and width of your handles.

Use a ruler and fabric marker to sketch your pattern on pattern paper. Make sure to add seam allowances—typically 1/4 to 1/2 inch—around the edges. Once you have your pattern, cut out the fabric pieces accordingly.

Step 2: Prepare the Fabric

Wash and iron your fabric before you start cutting to ensure there are no shrinkage issues later. Cut out all the pieces for both the exterior and lining fabrics.

Step 3: Assemble the Exterior

1. Sew the Sides to the Bottom: Start by sewing the front and back pieces to the bottom piece of the bag. Align the edges, pin or clip them in place, and sew using a 1/4-inch seam allowance.

2. Attach the Handles: Decide where you want the handles to be attached. Fold the top edge of the bag down to create a casing for the handles. Insert the handles and sew them in place.

3. Sew the Bag Together: With the sides and handles attached, sew the side seams of the bag. Press the seams open with an iron.

Step 4: Assemble the Lining

1. Sew the Lining Pieces Together: Use the same steps as for the exterior to sew the lining pieces together, including sewing the side seams and attaching any inner pockets if desired.

2. Insert the Lining into the Exterior Bag: With the lining right-side out and the exterior bag inside out, place the lining inside the exterior bag. Align the top edges and sew around the top edge to join the lining and exterior.

3. Turn the Bag Right Side Out: After sewing, turn the bag right side out through the open gap. Press the top edges to ensure a neat finish.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. Topstitching: For a polished look, topstitch around the top edge of the bag. This will help reinforce the seam and give the bag a crisp finish.

2. Pressing: Give your bag a final press with an iron to smooth out any wrinkles and ensure all seams are crisp.

Tips for a Professional Finish:

• Use Interfacing: To give your tote bag more structure, consider using fusible interfacing on the exterior fabric.
• Reinforce Stress Points: Double stitch the areas where the handles are attached to ensure durability.
• Customize Your Bag: Add embellishments like pockets, patches, or embroidery to personalize your tote bag.

Summary:

Making a lined flat bottom tote bag is a rewarding project that combines practicality with creativity. By following these steps, you’ll not only have a functional and stylish bag but also gain valuable sewing skills. Enjoy the process and happy sewing!