How to Sew a Tote Bag with Flat Bottom and Sides

Are you tired of flimsy store-bought bags that can barely hold your groceries? Ready to take your crafting skills to the next level? In this guide, you will learn how to create a sturdy tote bag with a flat bottom and sides that can stand up on its own. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also have a stylish, personalized accessory that showcases your unique style. With just a few materials and some basic sewing techniques, you can make a bag that is both functional and fashionable. Let’s dive into the world of sewing and create something amazing!

Materials Needed:

• 1 yard of durable fabric (canvas or denim recommended)
• 1 yard of lining fabric (cotton or polyester)
• Sewing machine and thread
• Scissors
• Measuring tape
• Pins
• Iron
• Optional: interfacing for extra sturdiness

Step 1: Prepare Your Fabric
Before you start sewing, wash and iron your fabric to prevent any shrinkage later on. Lay the fabric flat and measure out the following pieces:

• Two rectangles for the outer bag (18” x 15”)
• Two rectangles for the lining (18” x 15”)
• Two long strips for handles (22” x 4”)

Step 2: Cut the Fabric
Using your scissors, carefully cut out your fabric pieces. For added strength, consider using interfacing on the outer fabric. Cut two rectangles of interfacing the same size as your outer bag pieces and iron them on.

Step 3: Create the Bottom and Sides
To give your tote bag a flat bottom, you will need to box the corners. Fold the bottom corner of each outer fabric rectangle so that the side seam and bottom seam align, creating a triangle. Measure 2 inches from the tip of the triangle and mark it. Sew along the marked line, then trim the excess fabric. Repeat this for both corners of the outer fabric and the lining.

Step 4: Sew the Outer Bag
With your outer bag pieces, place them right sides together. Pin along the sides and bottom, leaving the top open. Sew along the pinned edges, then turn the bag right side out. Press the seams with your iron for a crisp finish.

Step 5: Sew the Lining
Repeat the same process for the lining fabric. However, leave a 5-inch opening on one side to turn the bag later.

Step 6: Attach the Handles
Take the handle strips and fold each in half lengthwise, then open them up to iron a crease. Fold each edge into the center crease and iron again. Fold in half and sew along the open edge to secure. Attach the handles to the outer bag, pinning them about 4 inches from the side seams.

Step 7: Assemble the Bag
Insert the outer bag into the lining, right sides together. Pin around the top edge and sew. This step is crucial; make sure everything is aligned to prevent any twisting.

Step 8: Turn the Bag
Carefully pull the outer bag through the opening in the lining. Once turned right side out, tuck the lining inside the bag and iron the top edge for a polished look.

Step 9: Close the Opening
Hand stitch or machine sew the opening in the lining to close it up. This step is essential for a finished look.

Step 10: Final Touches
Give your tote bag a final press and check all seams for any loose threads. Now, you have a beautiful, sturdy tote bag ready for any occasion!

Conclusion
Now that you know how to sew a tote bag with a flat bottom and sides, you can create endless variations. Experiment with different fabrics, sizes, and embellishments to make each bag unique. Happy sewing!