How To Sew A Simple Bag

Women would never say no to bags. However, most own a massive collection in their closets, from simple souvenirs to high-end brands. It applies explicitly to celebrities or those who can afford to buy pricey tags. If you’re inspired to create your own showroom without spending thousands of dollars, sewing is your go-to option.

Indeed, a rewarding project anyone can try. You have the liberty to completely change the feel and look of your bag by switching hardware, diverging fabric, and adding intricate details. Fortunately, sewing a simple bag may only take you an hour or two. Just bear with this guide and have your own unique, gorgeous collection soon. They can also be a wonderful handcrafted gift!

How to Sew a Simple Bag?

Sewing a bag involves cutting fabric, adding a lining, attaching handles, piecing together, and finishing the design. Either hand-sew or use a machine. Fine details are optional yet can transform a plain bag into a trendy, sophisticated one. You may want to invest in buckles, eyelets and grommets, rivets, clasps, or any other hardware. Customize according to your desire.

Steps to Sew a Simple Bag With a Drawstring

Are you looking for an attractive but straightforward sewing project as a gift for your little munchkin? You’ll never go wrong with a drawstring bag! It’s also popular among teens and adults due to its multipurpose application. It can carry lightweight items like sneakers and clothing. The best part, you can easily fold it and slip in your pocket when not needed.

To start, determine first how small or big you want the finished drawstring bag. Double up the width. After that, add one inch both to the height and width of the bag. Let’s say you have a 7-inch by the 9-inch finished bag. You will have a fabric that’s 10 inches tall and 15 inches wide. Make two pieces of cloth similar to this size – whether varying or matching colors.

Step 1: Put the two pieces of fabric right sides together. Pin along the top edge and then sew it.

Step 2: Pin along the bottom and long left side. Again, sew both edges.

Step 3: Flip the bag back-to-front. It should expose the fabric finished side.

Step 4: Secure the lining and seam with a swift row of stitches.

Step 5: Pin around the edge to even out the top area of your bag. Sew around one-inch row of stitches. Then, sew another row of stitches close to the first one.

Step 6: Create a hole with a seam ripper. It is where you’ll attach the cord.

Step 7: Tug the cord through and flatten it. Trim to a proper length and bind a knot in all ends.

Steps to Sewing a Tote Bag

Tote bags are fashionable, nifty, and practical. It serves a lot of purposes. You can fill it up with a laptop or important documents when heading to work. Or, be charming when going with someone for a date. Moms usually use it to stuff diapers, toys, and baby clothes. Even when going to a store, you need a good, sturdy bag to assist with your groceries.

It doesn’t matter what your sewing expertise is. That’s because making a tote bag is incredibly straightforward. Moreover, you don’t even need a machine. In this sewing project, you’ll only need two pieces of main fabric and lining fabric. Top it up with two leather handles. These can be premade handles or faux leather handles.

Steps to Sew a Tote Bag

Step 1: Consider washing, drying, and ironing the fabric before you start.

Step 2: Cut four pieces of fabric. Let’s say 13 -1/2” by 14”. It depends on how big or small you want the tote bag.

Step 3: Fold the upper edge of each piece below 1/4 inch. Now, press in place. Pressing is essential as it will help you save ample time towards the end.

Step 4: Take two pieces outside, then align the right side together. You can use a binding clip to ensure the stripes are perfectly lined up. Adjust other borders after you sew the piece.

Step 5: It’s time to sew around other edges. Do this while leaving the pressed border unsewn.

Step 6: Turn the main piece outside. You can use a specific tool to oust the corners. Any spikey tool will do the job. Moreover, it allows a crisp and nice corner finish.

Step 7: Now for lining, lop off the corners, then turn them outside on the lining piece. Place the lining back right side and fill in the main piece.

Step 8: Begin with the side seam. Then, balance the seams and press one both on the left and right sides. Clip the two seams in position. Lastly, repeat the same process when working on the other side seam.

Step 9: You are now ready to insert the handles. Again, the size you choose depends on your personal preference. If you tend to carry the bag over your shoulder, then they should be 22 inches long. But if you plan to put the straps in your hand, it can be 12 inches shorter. Put the handle end between the lining and the primary layer.

Step 10: Clip the first handle in place, followed by the other side. Use a ruler to ensure both handles have a similar distance from each side.

Step 11: Sew the boxed corners by pinching the bottom corners. Mark around two-inch down from the corner and then sew across. Repeat for other sides.

Step 12: To finish your creation, go around the bag’s top with a straight stitch and coordinating thread. Go around 1/2 inch under the original seam to create a more professional and finished look.

Step 13: You have tons of options on what unique details you can add to your tote bag. It can be a patch pocket on the front or whatever will suit your interest.

Other Simple and Beautiful Bag Patterns to Try!

Want to explore further? I encourage you to give any of these lovely free bag patterns a fun try!

1. Crossbody Bags

It is comfortable to wear and a simple bag pattern that is great for girls of any age. It has the feel and looks of conventional handbags. You can use various materials for sewing crossbody bags, from soft cotton to sturdy leather and canvas.

2. Bucket Tote Bag

The finished design may discourage you from making your own bucket tote bag. But no, it doesn’t include fussy details or whatever you call it. This bag pattern is easy, casual, and fun to carry as a crossbody bag. Or, sling it over your shoulder!

3. Messenger Bag

If you carry a lot of stuff, designing your own messenger bag is truly practical. It can hold nearly everything and anything. It offers a smart and casual look. Thus, it is a sought-after fashionable alternative for both men and women.

4. Zipper Pouch

It is absolutely a fun sewing project, especially for beginner sewists. It combines a function and style that can accommodate any appearance. You can use it to hold toiletries, makeup kits, sewing essentials, or first aid kits. Anything you think will fit nicely to its cute space.

5. Envelope Laptop Bag

Well, it is an adorable bag accessory for tech-savvy people. You can easily create and customize it. Make a faux leather strap or belt.

What Are the Best Fabrics for Sewing Bags?

The material you choose can make or break your bag, so choosing the right fabric is highly imperative. It should be as durable and sturdy as possible. Fabrics like denim, canvas, and drapery fabric can promote a balance between function and form. They’re especially ideal when making tote bags. Nylon and faux leather vinyl are other durable options.

What Are the Different Sewing Machine Stitches?

When sewing seams in your bag, the basic straight stitches are commonly used. In this case, you should consider a straight stitching foot. There’s also a zigzag foot ideal for buttonhole sewing and finishing the edges of your fabric. A walking foot can be useful when sewing through manifold layers of cloth, like interfacing or fabric linings. Much necessary when stitching across the top edge of your bag.