Tutorial：a cat-patterned fabric tote bag（handmade lunch tote）
Today’s handmade item is a “DIY cat-patterned fabric tote bag (with flat bottom and lined)". It is a mini tote bag without a zipper, so it is easy to make. It has a gusset, so the usability is good. The size is also affordable, and I think it is just right for everyday use.
I think that it’ll come in handy when taking a stroll in the neighborhood and shopping at convenience stores. The finished size is about 26cm x 33cm. The gusset length is about 9cm. The exterior fabric is oxford fabric. For the lining, I used brown canvas fabric.
Materials
The 2 pieces of fabric for the exterior are 33cm x 45cm. (Seam allowances are included, interfacing to be attached)
Fusible interfacing gives the fabric firmness, and helps to keep the shape of tote bag.
https://www.jewel-track.com/en/post-627-enThe 2 pieces of fabric for the lining are 32.5cm x 44.5cm. (Seam allowances are included)
The 1 piece of fabric for the bottom patch is 19cm x 45cm. (Seam allowances are included)
Handles are 2 pieces of 2.5cm x 48cm. The handles can be made from any fabric you like, but I recommend using acrylic webbing, available at craft stores. (This way is easier and more convenient.)
How to make the bag body (exterior bag)
1. Place the exterior fabrics with right sides facing each other, and sew the bottom. Then press seam allowances open. (Right side means the front sides of the fabric are lined up with each other.)
2. Fold the edges of bottom patch (1cm), and sew the exterior fabric together.
When making creases, it is recommended to use a hot sewing ruler to iron. (hot hemmer) It will make the creases tighter and the finished product more beautiful.
3. Fold the exterior fabric in half with right side together, and sew the side seams.
4. Cut the extra fabric, and press seam allowances open. Then make gusset, and sew. (The gusset will determine the thickness of the bag.)
5. Baste the exterior fabric and handles together.
6. Cut a little extra seam allowances at the sides. (about 2.5cm from the opening)
How to sew the bag body (lining bag)
1. Layer the lining fabrics with right sides, and sew the sides and bottom.
2. Cut off extra fabric, and press seam allowances open. Then make gusset, and sew.
3. Cut a little extra seam allowances at the sides. (about 2.5cm from the opening)
How to sew the tote bag (finishing the bag)
1. Insert the lining bag into the exterior bag with the right side together and sew around the entrance. (Leave about a 10cm opening to turn right side out.)
2. Remove the bastings from the handle.
3. Press seam allowances open, and turn the bag inside out.
4. Iron the opening and stitch in place. There are many layers of fabric in the opening, and it’s quite thick, so work carefully.
5. Finally, apply a finishing iron to give the bag a nice shape. Your cat-patterned fabric tote bag is now complete.
Following is the video for how-to.