Handmade tote bag ideas: from how to make them to design
A tote bag that’s useful in all kinds of situations.
Use it as your main bag, pack your lunch in it, or take it along as a walking bag.
It’s one of those items that’s truly handy to have.
In this article, we’re sharing DIY ideas for making tote bags.
From simple designs to upcycled clothing versions and function-focused styles, we’ve gathered plenty of ideas.
Find the type that suits you best and try making it with your favorite fabric.
Handmade tote bag ideas: from how to make them to design (1–10)
[2-way] Mini Tote Bag
![[2-way] Mini Tote Bag](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/uadz2Gh0GgI/sddefault.jpg)
Let’s make a tote bag that can be used in two ways—as a tote and as a shoulder bag! Prepare your preferred fabric for the outer and lining pieces, and cut each part accordingly.
If you want the bag to hold its shape well, have some fusible interfacing ready too.
Then sew each part together to form the tote bag.
For the attachment points for the shoulder strap, make tabs with D-rings and sew them onto both sides of the bag.
Add a button so you can lightly close the opening.
It’s fine to use a store-bought shoulder strap! If you’d like to switch up how you use your bag to match your outfit, give this project a try!
[Paper bag type] Square tote bag
![[Paper bag type] Square tote bag](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/P901mrvH0po/sddefault.jpg)
How about a square, paper-bag-style tote? Cut and prepare your preferred fabrics for each part: outer fabric, lining, facing at the opening, handles, and pockets.
We recommend choosing different colors or patterns for the other parts to complement the outer fabric.
Sew everything together so that both the bottom and sides form square gussets.
It’s also a good idea to add a single button at the opening for a light closure.
Adjust and attach the pocket size and number as you like.
Because the square shape creates a larger gusset, it’s great for those who want to carry a lot.
mom bag
When you go out with your child, diapers, a change of clothes, a water bottle, and more can really add up, right? Here’s a tote bag in a “mom bag” style that can hold all those bulky items! First, cut your favorite fabric to match the size of the bag you want to make, and sew it together into a tote shape.
It’s recommended to add about two pockets on the outside so you can quickly stash small items.
Add a wide gusset for extra capacity, attach the handles, and you’re done! If you include hardware for hooking keychains, you can attach your child’s favorite character keychain, too.
[A4 Size] Tote Bag with Side Pockets
![[A4 Size] Tote Bag with Side Pockets](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/owsIFaLdiv4/sddefault.jpg)
Here’s an introduction to a tote bag with side pockets that can hold A4 files and books.
First, cut your preferred fabric into pieces for the outer fabric, lining, and handles.
It’s recommended to apply fusible interfacing to the wrong side of the outer fabric to prevent it from losing shape and to add strength to the bag.
Sew the pieces together to form the bag.
Attach the side pockets to the gusseted side sections.
If you like, add an inner pocket as well.
Don’t forget to add a button at the bag’s opening.
This bag is great for students who use lots of files and notebooks, as well as working professionals who carry many documents!
[Remade Jeans] Tote Bag
![[Remade Jeans] Tote Bag](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/QRY6kTJy-14/sddefault.jpg)
How about upcycling your old jeans into a bag? First, from the denim, cut out two outer panels, one bottom panel, two side panels, and two handle pieces.
For the outer panels, it’s recommended to use the seat pocket area.
Apply fusible interfacing to all the denim pieces you’ve cut.
After sewing the denim pieces together to form the bag, sew the lining.
Be sure to add a pocket and a magnetic snap to the lining.
The design will change depending on the shape and color of the denim and which parts you use, so you can create a one-of-a-kind tote bag!
Patchwork Tote Bag [Using Fabric Scraps]
![Patchwork Tote Bag [Using Fabric Scraps]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/2iX3bo0O_Do/sddefault.jpg)
If you have leftover fabric at home, how about a patchwork tote bag made with fabric scraps? Prepare scraps with different colors and patterns cut to the same width, and piece them together until you have a strip about 3 meters long.
Trim the pieced strip so it matches the length of your base fabric.
Next, sew the base fabric and the scrap strip together so they form stripes, then assemble them into a bag shape.
With that, the outer layer is done, so use a larger leftover piece to make the lining.
Attach the lining and, at the same time, add the handles—and you’re finished! It makes a perfect tote for your child’s lessons or for carrying a gym uniform.
Marimekko Fabric Gusseted Tote Bag
This is a gusseted tote bag made with Marimekko fabric, famous for its large floral patterns.
Cut your chosen Marimekko fabric into pieces for the bag body and the handles, separating each part.
Then simply sew the pieces together.
Make the gusset in whatever size suits the items you plan to carry.
If you have leftover fabric, adding an inner pocket or pouch will make the bag even more practical.
Find your favorite Marimekko fabric and create a unique tote bag!