Tote bag tutorial. Use upcycled fabric to make tote bags.

In this easy and beginner friendly tote bag tutorial, I’ll explain my failsafe tote bag sewing process. Easy to follow step-by-step instructions, with voice over and captions, so you don't miss a step.
#totebagtutorial #totebag #totebagsewingtutorial #sewingtutorial #clothesupcycling #upcyclediy #totebagcustom
Let's get started sewing these practical tote bag that's perfect for personal use or to give away as gifts...
Step 1 - Cut out the pieces for your outer bag and lining. Refer to the comments for the dimensions.
Step 2 - Sew the side pieces to one of the front or back pieces. Sew these in place on the machine.
Step 3 - Attached the loose side pieces to the other front or back piece. Sew these in place on the machine. You’ll end up with a tube.
Step 4 - On the bottom pieces for the outer bag and the lining, use your 2cm equilateral triangle and mark a diagonal line in each corner.
Step 5. Pin the corresponding bottom piece to your tube.
Step 6 - On the machine, sew the bottom, starting at the right side of each corner with the diagonal marked. Stop when you reach the corresponding diagonal which will be to the left of the diagonal mark.
Step 7 - Sew the diagonals corners, following your mark.
Step 8 - Sew your pocket pieces using the burrito or inside out method. Once right side in, press them with the iron so they’re nice and flat. Sew them in place.
Step 9 - Make your handles.
In the first tutorial, I made a channel (like a waist band) and fed rope through it to make rounded handles.
In the second tutorial, I sewed simple flat handles from the fabric.
Step 10 - Using your iron, press a hem at the top of the lining and the top of the outer bag. Insert the lining in the bag and pin it in place. Remember to move the inner lining down a few centimetres so it doesn’t show at the top.
Step 11 - Measure equal distance from the centre of the bag and pin your handles in place, tucking the ends between the lining and the outer bag.
Step 12 - Stitch it all together on the machine.
Step 13 - Attach your closing fasteners of choice.
And it's done! Please share how your tote bag turned out in the comments below and any alterations you made to personalise your bag. I love inspiration from others.
Thanks so much for watching. I hope I explained the steps simply enough. If you enjoyed this video or you’d like to see more tutorials like this one, please throw me a thumbs up, it really helps.
For more upcycling and sewing inspiration, make sure you subscribe so you don't miss an update.
See you next time,
BEX.
My clothes upcycling and sewing tutorials include:
* how to make a tote bag tutorial
* beginner friendly tote bag sewing tutorial
* make a tote bag
* bag sewing tutorial
* fabric upcycling ideas
* material upcycling ideas
* sewing tutorials for beginners
* easy sewing tutorials
* handmade gift ideas
* upcycled gift ideas
* recycled gift ideas
ABOUT SECOND LIFE UPCYCLING
Second Life Upcycling is about altering and upcycling clothes to give them a second life, inspiring people to recycle, repurpose, refashion, reuse, and rethink. On this channel, you'll find easy, quick, and simple step-by-step clothes upcycling tips and easy sewing tutorials. I have been thrifting, second-hand shopping, and sewing for 30+ years. I started thrifting in the 1980s. My passion is following an ethical style when it comes to my clothing choices and living an environmentally friendly life. I rarely buy new clothes (or anything new for that matter), instead shopping second hand at shops, Goodwill, Vinnies, Salvos and flea markets.
THE BENEFITS OF LEARNING TO SEW
Sewing skills not only mean saving money (more important in times of high cost of living) but play a significant role in reducing your environmental footprint.
Learning to sew and mend your clothes can lead to substantial savings now and in the long term. Instead of discarding garments due to minor damages you can easily repair them yourself. Upcycling clothes gives them a new life, keeping then in the circular economy rather than going to landfill.
Making your own clothes means you can create custom pieces tailored to your style and fit. Best of all, you’ll have the satisfaction of wearing something unique, knowing you made it yourself.
By learning to sew, mend, and upcycle, you actively participate in reducing this impact through waste reduction, resource conservation, and by reducing your carbon footprint.
Sewing means you can enjoy a more meaningful wardrobe that’s filled with items that you love and cherish. Sewing fosters creativity and skill development.
Making something with your own hands or bringing a beloved items back to life cultivates a sense resourcefulness.

[@SecondLifeUpcycling]

Tote bag pattern dimensions (without lining)
2 x 34cm x 34cm (13.38" x 13.38") for the front and back
2 x 34cm x 11cm (13.38" x 4.33") for the sides
1 x 32cm x 11cm (12.59" x 4.33") for the bottom
Spare fabric for the pockets and handles
Tote bag pattern dimensions (with lining)
4 x 34cm x 34cm (13.38" x 13.38") for the front and back
4 x 34cm x 11cm (13.38" x 4.33") for the sides
2 x 32cm x 11cm (12.59" x 4.33") for the bottom
Spare fabric for the pockets and handles
Note: You can adjust the tote bag pattern sizes above to your preference. The steps below should still work.

[@dcurtisuwf]

Thanks for the tutorial. I just subscribed to your channel.

[@letspaintfacepainting]

This is brilliant, thank you so much for all of your wonderful tips

[@SecondLifeUpcycling]

Thanks for the feedback 🤩