Sewing Simple Tote Bags for Handmade Presents

Step 1: Decide how big you would like your finished bag to be. Measure your base fabric with two times the height of your bag plus allowing 40mm extra fabric for hems all the way around the bag width and height. You can sew different fabrics together like a patchwork to make the base size you want and this can make the bag more striking. Add a bag lining by cutting a piece of fabric the same size and placing it beneath your main fabric.

Step 2: Cut a panel at least 100mm deep and the width of your bag plus 40mm for hem allowance. Press and sew the edges neatly and use the sewing machine to attach the panel onto your bag across the middle, to form an extra bag base layer.

Step 3: Select a contrasting fabric to make a front pocket which is 50mm less wide and high than your basic bag. This bag will have multiple pockets as it utilises a section from a pair of jeans which already has extra pockets. Fold and press the 20mm hem edges of the pocket inwards and sew around the pocket and onto the front of the main bag piece. Making sure to leave the top section open so you can access the pocket and check that it lines up with the front face of the bag correctly.

Step 4: Take a substantial weight fabric in a polyester or similar strong weave and cut two strips of fabric 50mm wide and double the height of your bag plus an extra 500mm to allow for the bag strap length. Using an iron press the hem edges of the strips inwards and then fold to give the desired strap width. Ensure the finished strap is at least 20mm wide to allow for easy stitching and make it comfortable on the shoulder to use.

Sew the straps on each long edge to form the neat long shapes. Using pins attach to the front of your bag on each side of the front pocket and check the strap length is appropriate for the height of the bag user. Turn the ends under neatly out of sight and sew onto place. Line up the remaining strap on the back of the bag to match the front strap position and sew in place.

Step 5: Fold the length of the bag in half 'inside out' so the bag lining is on show. Sew two lines of stitching close together along the side edges of the bag being careful not to catch the straps in your stitching lines. Turn the bag the right way around to see your finished bag.

Step 6: One optional extra feature is to add large clasps to your bag. Cut tiny slits in the fabric at the top middle of your back at least 50mm from the top edge. Insert the outer metal clasp prongs into the slits and use a small pair of pliers to bed the metal flat to secure the clasp. Repeat with the inner metal clasp on the other side of the bag and your bag will be able to be securely closed.

Making tote bags is a great way to upcycle up pretty vintage fabrics that would have previously been used for soft furnishings. Making patterned bags can also be a brilliant way to add interest to a plain outfit and even very bold and very young feminine patterns can be worn by all people of ages.

Selecting heavier fabrics will ensure you can carry heavy objects in your bag. Think about what the maximum thickness of fabric can be that your machine can sew happily once you have a lining and 'double folded layers' when you are sewing the sides together.

Another way to embellish your original product designs is to add handmade brooches and badges. Brooch backs and clasps are available at almost every haberdashery craft shop in the UK. This vintage fabric floral brooch pins this unique tote bag together stylishly.