| Making Tote-Bags |
From "Ask DIY"
episode ADI-505 |
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Q: I prefer carrying a tote bag rather than a purse. Can you show me how to make a simple one that's not too big? A: (from DIY's resident crafts expert, Debbie Stapely) Tote bags made from oilcloth are so easy to make, and there's such a range of patterns available (figure A), that you may want to make one to go with each of your outfits.
Materials: Oilcloth in patterns of your choice
Kraft paper
Fabric trim and webbing for strap
Scissors
Sewing machine; upholstery needle; heavy thread
Spray fabric-adhesive (optional)
Steps: - Even if you've never heard of it, oilcloth is probably available in your local fabric store. It can probably be found in the section where you'll also find vinyl. If you can't find it locally, a quick search on an internet search-engine should provide you with a number of sources. Oilcloth is easy to work with, and is ideal for a tote bag since it's washable and easy to clean. Select colors and patterns that appeal to you. Get creative. Mix and match. For our demonstration, a bag was created using two separate patterns.
- Begin by drawing out a template for your bag using kraft paper. The shape is not critical. You could make a bag that's square, rectangular, round, etc. For our demonstration, the template was cut roughly square, with rounded corners (figure B).
- Use the pattern to cut out four identical shapes from the various patterns you've chosen. For visual interest, cut two shapes from one of your patterns, and two from a separate pattern (figure C).
- Though identical on three sides, two of the oilcloth pieces should be cut with the top edge extending about an inch longer than that of the other two pieces (figure D).
- The extra inch of material on the larger pieces will be used create a border (figure E). The border can be fashioned on the outside or inside of the bag, according to your preference.
- Once you have your four pieces cut, begin assembly of the bag by joining each of the two pairs together using a basting stitch, or you may choose to use spray adhesive.
- With the pairs joined together, on each pair fold the extending piece of material over about a quarter inch, then fold it over again, then press along the folded edge (figure F) so that it holds in place.
- With the excess pieces folded over, sew them down on the sewing machine (figure G) using a straight stitch or, if you like, a decorative stitch. Use a heavy upholstery needle and heavy thread to fasten it down.
- Sew the folded piece all the way to the end of the fabric to create the decorative border (figure H). Repeat this for both pairs of oilcloth.
- For a handle, use decorative fabric trim in a color and pattern of your choice. You may also want to add some cotton webbing to the back of the trim for extra strength sturdiness (figure I).
- Fold the end of the trim and webbing under, position it on the top edge of the oilcloth piece, and fasten it down with stitching (figure J). Repeat to fasten the other end of the handle to the opposite end of the oilcloth piece. Repeat these steps with another piece of trim and webbing for the other side of the bag.
- Once you have both of your halves complete, and a handle attached to each half, join the two halves -- right sides together (figure K) -- and sew the edges together on three sides, leaving the top of the bag open. Back-stitch at each of the top corners for a sturdy seam at the corner.
- With the bottom and two side edges sewn together, turn the bag inside out to reveal the finished product (figure L).
The finished tote bag is perfect for carrying books, magazines, or to use instead of a purse.
RESOURCES :
Making Handbags and Purses: 50 Patterns and Designs from Casual to Corporate
Model: 1579901492
Author: Carol Parks
Simply Sensational Bags: How to Stitch and Embellish Handbags, Totes and Satchels
Model: 0873418484
Author: Linda McGehee
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