Free sewing pattern ·
Simple Tote Bag Pattern Free: Easy Sewing for Beginners
| Finished size | 14 x 15 in (35.5 x 38 cm) |
|---|---|
| Fabric | 3/4 yd of 44 in canvas or cotton duck |
| Pieces | 2 bag panels 15 x 17.5 in, 2 straps 4 x 24 in |
| Seam allowance | 1/2 in |
| Level | Beginner, sewing machine |
| Time | about 1-2 hours |
| Price | Free |
Jump to the pattern Printable PDF (free) Save it on Pinterest
What you need
- 3/4 yd (70 cm) of 44 in wide canvas or cotton duck
- Matching thread and a size 90/14 or 100/16 machine needle
- Pins or clips, iron, ruler and fabric marker
How it's made, in short
- Cut. Cut two bag panels 15 x 17.5 in and two straps 4 x 24 in, grain running along the height and the length.
- Make the straps. Fold each strap to 1 in wide with the raw edges inside and topstitch both edges.
- Sew the bag. Sew the panels right sides together along both sides and the bottom, 1/2 in seam.
- Hem the top. Press 1/2 in then 1 1/2 in to the wrong side.
- Attach the straps. Tuck the strap ends 1 1/2 in under the hem, 3 1/2 in from each side seam, topstitch the hem and box-stitch each strap end.
Tips
- Pre-wash canvas before cutting; it can shrink a few percent.
- Use a longer stitch (3 mm) for topstitching through the thick layers.
- Sew the box-and-X through each strap end; that is where a tote takes the weight.
The free pattern
Measurements in inches with centimetres in brackets. Seam allowance 1/2 in unless stated.
Size: 14 in wide x 15 in tall (35.5 x 38 cm), handles 21 in (53 cm) long, 1 in wide
Fabric: 3/4 yd (70 cm) of 44 in (112 cm) wide canvas, cotton duck or heavy cotton (7-10 oz)
Notions: matching thread, pins or clips, iron, ruler and fabric marker, sewing machine with a size 90/14 or 100/16 needle
Seam allowance: 1/2 in (1.3 cm) on the sides and bottom; the top hem is turned 1/2 in, then 1 1/2 in
CUTTING (no paper pattern needed, just measure and cut)
Bag panel: cut 2, each 15 in wide x 17.5 in tall (38.1 x 44.5 cm). Grain line parallel to the 17.5 in side.
Strap: cut 2, each 4 in wide x 24 in long (10 x 61 cm). Grain line parallel to the 24 in side.
Layout: lay the two panels and the two straps side by side across the fabric, all running the same way as the selvage; together they take 38 in of the width and 24 in of the length.
Instructions
- Straps: press each strap in half lengthwise, open it, press both long raw edges to the centre crease, then fold in half again so it is 1 in wide with no raw edges. Topstitch 1/8 in from both long edges.
- Sides and bottom: place the two bag panels right sides together. Sew the left side, the bottom and the right side with a 1/2 in seam, leaving the top open. Backstitch at both ends.
- Finish the seam allowances with a zigzag stitch and press them toward the back.
- Hem: at the top, press 1/2 in to the wrong side all round, then press another 1 1/2 in to the wrong side.
- Straps on: on the front, tuck one end of a strap 1 1/2 in under the hem, 3 1/2 in in from the side seam, and the other end 3 1/2 in in from the other side seam, without twisting it. Repeat on the back with the second strap, matching the front.
- Topstitch the hem 1/8 in from its lower fold all round, catching the strap ends. Then sew a box with an X through each strap end (four in all) for strength.
- Turn the bag right side out and press.
How we checked it: sewlib constructibility certificate passed; interpreter: 3 seams, 10 declared open edges, every edge used exactly once, mating edges equal (front.left 17.500 in; front.right 17.500 in; front.bottom 15.000 in); cut sizes = finished + allowances (panel 15.0 x 17.5 in, strap 4 x 24 in folds to 1 in); grain on every piece; layout 38 x 24 in fits 3/4 yd of 44 in fabric. We work hard to get every number right, but mistakes can still happen; tell us at hello@craftuary.com if anything is off.
Want it on paper?
The printable PDF (US Letter and A4) is free with a Craftuary account.
Get the printable PDF freeQuestions
How much fabric do I need for a tote bag?
3/4 yard of 44 inch wide canvas makes this 14 x 15 inch tote, straps included.
What size do I cut the fabric for a tote bag?
Two panels 15 x 17.5 inches for a 14 x 15 inch bag (1/2 inch seams and a 2 inch top hem included) and two straps 4 x 24 inches.
What is the best fabric for a tote bag?
A medium to heavy woven cotton such as canvas or cotton duck, 7 to 10 oz, which holds its shape without a lining.
Can a beginner sew a tote bag?
Yes. It is straight seams only, with no zip or lining; most beginners finish it in one to two hours.
The pictures are drawn from the pattern's own measurements and stitches; your finished piece will vary a little with your materials.
Sewing patterns: every sewing pattern on Craftuary.
Other crafts: Crochet patterns · Knitting patterns · Embroidery guides · Embroidery and cross stitch patterns