tote sewing pattern

This classic lined tote bag pattern features reinforced handles and a sturdy boxed bottom, designed for canvas, denim, or heavy cotton fabrics.

Pattern Overview

  • Skill Level: Beginner

  • Finished Size: 14" W x 15" H x 4" D (35.5 cm x 38 cm x 10 cm)

  • Seam Allowance: 1/2" (1.3 cm) included throughout unless specified

Fabric & Materials Needed

  • Exterior Fabric: 1/2 yard canvas, duck cloth, or denim

  • Lining Fabric: 1/2 yard quilting cotton or linen

  • Webbing / Straps: 1.5 yards of 1"-wide cotton or nylon webbing

  • Fusible Interfacing (Optional): 1/2 yard medium-weight interfacing for extra structure

Cutting Layout

  • Exterior Main Panels: Cut 2 pieces — 16" W x 17" H

  • Lining Main Panels: Cut 2 pieces — 16" W x 17" H

  • Straps: Cut 2 pieces — 28" long each

  • Exterior Pocket (Optional): Cut 1 piece — 8" W x 7" H

Step-by-Step Assembly Instructions

1. Prepare the Pocket & Attach Straps

  • Fold the top edge of the pocket down by 1/4" twice, press, and topstitch.

  • Center the pocket on the right side of one exterior panel, 4" down from the top edge. Edge-stitch sides and bottom.

  • Position the webbing straps 4" inward from each outer edge on both exterior panels, raw edges matching the top of the panel. Pin and baste in place at 1/4" seam allowance.

2. Sew Main Panels

  • Place exterior main panels right sides together. Sew the sides and bottom edge (leave top open).

  • Place lining main panels right sides together. Sew sides and bottom edge, leaving a 4-inch opening in the center of the bottom seam for turning.

3. Box the Bottom Corners

  • At one bottom corner, pull the front and back fabric apart and flatten so the side seam sits directly over the bottom seam, forming a point.

  • Measure 2" down from the point (the line across should measure 4" long). Mark and stitch across this line.

  • Trim the excess fabric triangle 1/4" away from the stitch line. Repeat for all corners (exterior and lining).

4. Assemble Bag & Topstitch

  • Turn the exterior bag right-side out. Keep the lining bag wrong-side out.

  • Insert the exterior bag into the lining bag so right sides are touching and straps are tucked inside between layers.

  • Pin the top edges together, matching side seams. Stitch all the way around the top edge.

  • Pull the exterior bag out through the 4-inch gap in the lining. Stitch the lining opening closed.

  • Push the lining into the exterior bag, press the top seam flat, and topstitch around the top edge at 1/8" and 1/4" for a clean finish