This tote is lined for extra strength. It also features two pockets on the front, so you don't have to go digging around in a huge bag for your keys. Because keys are heavy, so they go all the way to the bottom and you end up having to pull everything out to find them.
I'm sure there are about a million ways to make a tote, and a free tutorial for every one, but here is how I made this one.
First, cut out the tote pieces. Cut a 20 x 36 inch piece out of the fabric and the lining. The handles are 30 x 4 inches {cut 2}. The large pocket is 14 x 12 inches, and I didn't measure the little pocket. Sorry.
Fold the lining in half the long way and cut a 2 inch square out of each bottom corner.
Do the same for the fabric. It will look like this {the same on both sides. I guess I cut off the other side when I took the picture}:
Fold the tops of the pockets over twice and press. Topstitch along the edge.
Fold the other edges under.
Stitch the small pocket to the large pocket, then the large pocket to the bag. Make sure to reinforce the top edges of your pockets.
Sew the straps into tubes, then turn them right side out. Press. Topstitch along both edges. This is optional, but gives it a more finished look.
Stitch up both sides of the tote.
Pull the bag so that the sides of the 2 inch square you cut out are lined up. They won't line up exactly because the seam will have made one edge shorter. That's fine. Stitch along the end. I used a fake overlock stitch on my sewing machine to make it a little stronger. Do the same for the other side.
Then sew the lining the same way.
Turn the bag right side out. Fold the top edges under and press. The lining should be wrong side out. Fold the top edges toward the wrong side and press. Insert the lining into the bag.
Match up the top edges.
Insert the handles where you want them. I measured four inches from the edge and that's where I placed each handle end.
Topstitch all the way around the top of the bag.
There you go. Another tote to add to your collection.
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