DIY Tote bag from cloth Brand Style Sewing at home

Introduction

In this tutorial, you will learn how to create a stylish DIY tote bag inspired by the brand TOD'S. This project utilizes various materials and techniques to help you craft a functional and fashionable tote bag at home. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sewist, this guide will provide you with the steps needed to successfully complete your tote bag.

Step 1: Gather Materials

Before you start sewing, make sure you have all the necessary materials:

• Canvas fabric (for the exterior)
• Spunbond (for stability)
• Fleece interfacing (23x12 cm, for added thickness)
• Lining fabric (for the inside of the bag)
• Magnetic lock (2 pairs, for closure)
• 22 cm zipper (for additional storage)

Practical Tip

Choose fabric colors and patterns that reflect your personal style or match your wardrobe for a more cohesive look.

Step 2: Prepare Your Patterns

Using the provided pattern link, print and cut out your bag template. This pattern will guide you in cutting the right shapes from your fabric.

Steps to Prepare Patterns

1. Download the pattern from Google Drive.
2. Print the pattern on A4 or letter-sized paper.
3. Cut out the shapes as indicated in the pattern.

Step 3: Cut Fabric Pieces

Using the pattern as a guide, cut the following pieces from your chosen fabrics:

• Exterior pieces from canvas fabric.
• Lining pieces from lining fabric.
• Interfacing from fleece.

Practical Tip

Ensure that you cut straight lines and use sharp scissors for clean edges. This will make sewing easier and the final product look more polished.

Step 4: Assemble the Bag

Now that you have all your pieces ready, it's time to assemble the bag.

Steps to Assemble

1. Sew the exterior: Place the right sides of the canvas fabric together and sew along the edges, leaving the top open.
2. Attach the interfacing: Iron the fleece interfacing onto the wrong side of the exterior fabric for added support.
3. Sew the lining: Repeat the process with the lining fabric, ensuring you leave a gap at the bottom for turning the bag inside out later.

Common Pitfall

Avoid sewing the top of the bag shut. Remember to leave it open for later steps.

Step 5: Install the Zipper

To add functionality to your tote bag, you'll install a zipper.

Steps to Install Zipper

1. Lay the zipper along the top edge of the lining.
2. Pin it in place and sew it using a zipper foot attachment on your sewing machine.
3. Repeat this for the other side of the zipper with the exterior fabric.

Practical Tip

Use fabric clips instead of pins for thicker materials to prevent damaging the fabric.

Step 6: Add Magnetic Lock

To secure your tote bag, install the magnetic lock.

Steps to Add Magnetic Lock

1. Mark the position for the magnetic lock on the front exterior of the bag.
2. Cut small slits for the lock's prongs and push them through.
3. Secure the back of the lock by pressing it into place.

Step 7: Final Assembly and Finishing Touches

Now, you will complete the assembly of your tote bag.

Steps for Final Assembly

1. Turn the exterior of the bag right side out.
2. Place the exterior bag inside the lining (which is still inside out).
3. Sew around the top edge, ensuring both layers are attached.
4. Pull the exterior through the gap in the lining.
5. Close the gap in the lining by hand sewing or machine sewing.

Practical Tip

Give your bag a final press with an iron to smooth out any wrinkles and ensure seams lay flat.

Conclusion

Congratulations on completing your DIY tote bag! This project allows you to express your creative style while enhancing your sewing skills. Consider experimenting with different fabrics or embellishments for future bags. Enjoy using your new tote or gifting it to a friend!