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How to Sew a Tote Bag for Beginners + Free Pattern

Learn how to sew a tote bag step by step with this beginner-friendly tutorial. Includes a free shopping bag sewing pattern and video tutorial.

 Ready made tote bag on flat surface

Have you ever wanted to carry a bag that’s both practical and handmade with love? In this tutorial, I’ll show you how to sew a tote bag step by step. This project is perfect for beginners—you don’t need fancy sewing skills or expensive fabric. With my free tote bag sewing pattern and an easy-to-follow video tutorial, you’ll have your very own DIY tote bag ready in no time.

Whether you call it a tote bag or a shopping bag, this simple design is sturdy, reusable, and endlessly customizable. Grab your fabric scraps, thread, and sewing machine, and let’s get started on making a bag you’ll actually use every day.

Inside of the ready sewn tote bag for shopping

Materials and Tools You’ll Need

tools and fabrics needed to sew tote bag 

Before we dive in, let’s get everything ready. Using the right tools and materials will make your tote bag stronger and give it a professional finish.

Fabric

  • Main fabric: cotton canvas, denim, linen, or sturdy cotton (approx. 0.5–0.7 m / 20–28 in) — strong enough to carry groceries or books.

  • Lining (optional): adds durability and a neat inside finish.

Other supplies

  • Matching thread – blends with your fabric for a clean look.

  • Sewing pins or clips – keep layers in place while sewing.

  • Fabric scissors or rotary cutter – for accurate, clean cuts.

  • Measuring tape or ruler – ensures precise dimensions.

  • Iron and ironing board – pressing makes your bag look professional.

  • Sewing machine – any domestic machine works! Set it to a straight stitch (medium length).

✨ My Go-To Sewing Tools

 
Want to see all the sewing, pattern-drafting, and upcycling tools I actually use? I’ve put together a full list here: Best Sewing Pattern Drafting & Upcycling Tools I Use

Cutting the Pieces

For a standard-sized tote bag:

  • Front and back panels: 40 × 45 cm (16 × 18 in) each

  • Straps/handles: 60 × 8 cm (24 × 3 in) each (cut 2)

  • Top lining strips: width = tote bag top (45 cm / 18 in), height = 8 cm (3 in), cut 2

👉 Feel free to adjust these dimensions depending on how large or small you want your DIY tote bag.


Sewing the Tote Bag Body

  1. Place the front and back panels right sides together.

  2. Pin along the sides and bottom edge.

  3. Sew with a 1 cm (⅜ in) seam allowance.

  4. Press seams open with an iron for a flat, professional finish.

Cutting out pieces from fabric for tote bag

Sewing the Tote Bag Straps

  1. Take one strap piece (60 × 8 cm / 24 × 3 in).

  2. Fold in half lengthwise, right sides together.

  3. Sew along the long raw edge with a 1 cm (⅜ in) seam allowance.

  4. Turn the strap right side out (use a safety pin or loop turner).

  5. Press flat with the seam running along one edge.

  6. Topstitch close to both long edges for durability.

  7. Repeat for the second strap.



Preparing the Top Lining

The lining strips give the top edge of the tote bag a neat, professional look.

  • Cut two strips: 45 cm (18 in) × 8 cm (3 in).

  • Sew them to prepare for attaching with the main fabric.




Attaching the Straps & Lining

  1. Place one lining strip right sides together with the top edge of the bag. Pin and sew with a 1 cm (⅜ in) seam allowance.

  2. Repeat for the other side.

     

  3. Position the straps between the main fabric and the lining strip.

    • Measure 10 cm (4 in) from each side seam.

    • Place strap ends pointing downward inside the bag.

    • Pin securely.

  4. Sew across the top edge, firmly securing straps in place.

    • Pro tip: Stitch an extra rectangle or X-box at the strap base for added strength, especially if you plan to carry heavy items.




Sewing and Turning the Bag

 

  1. With lining strips and straps pinned, sew across the entire top edge of the tote bag.

  2. Flip the lining and straps upward so the right side shows. Press flat with an iron.

  3. Fold the lining to the inside of the bag.

  4. Pin along the top folded edge.

Adding straps to tote bag


Topstitching for a Professional Finish

 

  • Stitch around the top edge of the tote bag, close to the fold.

  • This secures the lining inside and reinforces the straps.

  • Press everything flat for a crisp, polished look.

     

  • (Optional) Fold the bottom corners, pin, and sew to create a flat base.



Ready DIY Tote Bag !


Ready tote bag on table

Looking for a Leather Tote Bag?


If you’d like to try something more advanced, I also have a step-by-step guide on sewing a DIY leather tote bag. It’s perfect if you want a sturdier, long-lasting bag with a polished finish. You can find the full tutorial here: DIY Tutorial: How to Sew a Leather Bag

Prefer Learning Visually?

If step-by-step text feels a little tricky to follow, don’t worry—I’ve made a full video tutorial on how to sew a tote bag. You’ll see every step in action, from cutting the fabric to attaching the straps and finishing the edges. Watching along makes the process so much clearer, and you’ll be able to finish your DIY tote bag with confidence in no time.
 
 
Make sure to give a thumbs up, leave a comment, and hit that subscribe button on my channel to get more sewing tutorials. Don’t forget to share your results with me on Instagram or Facebook. I’m really excited to see what you come up with! 

Customization Ideas

 

Your DIY tote bag doesn’t have to be plain! Try these easy upgrades:

  • Add a pocket inside or outside for extra storage.

  • Use contrasting fabrics for a two-tone look.

  • Decorate with embroidery, fabric paint, or applique.

  • Make extra-wide straps for comfort.

  • Add a magnetic snap or zipper closure for security.




Common Beginner Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

  • Bag looks uneven: check all measurements before cutting.

  • Straps twisting: pin securely and double-check placement.

  • Lining popping out: topstitch too far from the edge — keep stitches close.


FAQs About Sewing Tote Bags

Q: Can I make this tote bag without a lining?
Yes! Just fold and hem the top edge, then attach the straps directly.

Q: What fabric is best for tote bags?
Sturdy fabrics like canvas, denim, or cotton twill hold shape best.

Q: Can I wash my tote bag?
Yes — pre-wash fabric before sewing to prevent shrinkage.


Your DIY Tote Bag Is Ready!

Zoom on ready made tote bag

And that’s it—you’ve just learned how to sew a tote bag from start to finish!  With this free shopping bag sewing pattern and the step-by-step guide, you now have a practical, eco-friendly bag you can take anywhere. The best part? You can customize it—add pockets, make it lined, or play with fabric colors to suit your style.

If you’re new to sewing, I hope this project gave you confidence to keep creating. A simple DIY tote bag is just the beginning—you’ll be amazed at what else you can sew with a few stitches and some imagination.

👉 Don’t forget to download the free pattern, rewatch the video tutorial if needed, and share your finished tote with me—I’d love to see your creations!