How to Make Tote Bags With Double Quilted Fabric
A good bag is hard to find, but a simple tote is easy to make yourself. With a few supplies and a bit of sewing knowledge, just about anyone can create a tote bag with double-sided quilted fabric. With quilted fabric, you don't have to create a lining for your bag, and the fabric will stand up on its own. Some quilted fabrics offer contrasting sides, while others match.
Things You'll Need
- Quilted fabric (18 by 40 inches)
- 4 strips of strap fabric (2 ½ inches by 28 inches)
- Sewing machine
- Scissors
- Thread
- Needles
Instructions
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1
Make your tote straps. Place two strips together so the outside fabric is touching on the inside. Sew along the length of the straps on each side. Turn the straps right side out.
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2
Fold over the top, 18-inch edges 1/4 of an inch and stitch down. These edges will become the top opening of the bag.
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3
Pin the strap's unfinished edges against the hem, 4 inches from each side. Fold down the edge 1/2 inch, creating a double hem; stitch to secure. There should now be a strap and hem on each end of your rectangle.
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4
Flip the strap up to face out and sew a rectangle around the strap. This will secure it to the hem and keep the bag from curling up when the handles are pulled.
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5
Fold over your large rectangle so the fabric side you want to be seen faces in. Sew along the unfinished edges. Be sure to back stitch when you start and stop to give the seam added strength. Turn the tote bag right side out and push the seams outward to smooth.
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Tips & Warnings
Your straps can contrast or complement your quilted fabric.
A universal needle may not be strong enough to sew through all of the layers of the quilted fabric. Try using a denim needle.
