A tote bag with a flat bottom offers more space and structure than a simple rectangular bag, making it perfect for carrying groceries, books, or even as a stylish everyday bag. The flat bottom ensures your bag can stand upright and provides more room for storage. This guide will walk you through the process of sewing a tote bag with a flat bottom from start to finish.
Materials You’ll Need:
Fabric: Choose a sturdy fabric like cotton canvas, denim, or linen for durability. You’ll need 1 yard of fabric for the bag’s body. For the lining, you’ll need an additional 1 yard of fabric.
Thread: Strong polyester or cotton thread that matches the fabric.
Needle: A universal sewing needle should work for most fabrics, but if you’re using heavy fabric, a denim or heavy-duty needle is ideal.
Pins or Fabric Clips: To hold the fabric pieces together.
Scissors: To cut your fabric.
Iron: For pressing seams and fabric flat.
Sewing Machine: A sewing machine will make the process quicker and more efficient.
Straps: You can either use pre-made straps or create your own fabric straps (2 inches by 24 inches for longer handles or 18 inches for shorter handles).
Step 1: Prepare and Cut the Fabric
Start by cutting your fabric. For a basic tote with a flat bottom, you’ll need the following pieces:
Body of the Tote: Cut two rectangles, each measuring 15 inches by 16 inches (adjust for a larger or smaller bag).
Flat Bottom Pieces: Cut two small squares or rectangles from the fabric to create the flat bottom. These pieces will add depth to the bag. Typically, these should be 3 inches by 3 inches, but you can adjust the size depending on how flat you want the bottom to be.
Straps: Cut two strips of fabric, each measuring 2 inches by 24 inches (for longer handles) or 18 inches (for shorter handles).
Lining: Cut two additional pieces for the lining, the same size as the body pieces (15 inches by 16 inches).
Step 2: Prepare the Flat Bottom
To create the flat bottom, you will need to sew the corners of your tote pieces to form the depth of the bag:
With the body fabric, fold each bottom corner of the two large rectangular pieces. Pin or clip the folded corners together and measure 3 inches from the edge of each side to form the boxy shape.
Sew along the folded corners using a 1/2-inch seam allowance, backstitching at the start and end to secure the stitches.
Once the corners are sewn, trim any excess fabric from the corner to reduce bulk.
Repeat this process with your lining fabric, folding and sewing the corners in the same way. This will form the flat bottom of both the bag and the lining.
Step 3: Attach the Straps
While the bag pieces are still separate, attach the straps:
Take your fabric straps, fold each in half lengthwise, and sew along the long edge using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Turn the strap right-side out and press it flat with an iron.
Pin or clip the straps to the outer fabric of the bag, positioning them about 3 inches from each side edge. Make sure the straps are even on both sides.
Sew the straps in place with a reinforced stitch, either using a square stitch or an “X” pattern for added strength.
Step 4: Sew the Body of the Tote
Now that your straps are attached and the flat bottom is sewn, best mini sewing machine it’s time to assemble the body of the bag:
Place the two outer body pieces right sides together, matching up the edges. Pin the pieces together along the sides and bottom.
Sew along the sides and bottom using a 1/2-inch seam allowance, making sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of each seam. Remember, you’re sewing through the fabric and the flat-bottom corners at this point, so make sure everything aligns properly.
Step 5: Sew the Lining
Now, repeat the same process for the lining:
Place the two lining pieces right sides together and sew along the sides and bottom with a 1/2-inch seam allowance. Leave the top open, and make sure to sew the bottom corners in the same way to form the flat bottom.
Step 6: Attach the Lining to the Outer Bag
Once the lining is sewn, place the lining inside the outer bag, right sides facing each other. Pin the top edge of the lining to the top edge of the tote, aligning the seams and straps.
Sew along the top edge, securing the lining to the outer bag. You may need to stitch over the strap attachment areas to ensure they’re reinforced.
Step 7: Turn the Bag Right-Side Out
After sewing the top edge, turn the bag right-side out through the open top. Carefully push the corners and sides out to create a crisp finish. You should now see your flat-bottom tote bag taking shape.
Step 8: Finish the Bag
To create a clean, finished look, fold the top edge of the bag inward by about 1/4 inch and press it flat with an iron. Then, topstitch around the top edge of the bag, sewing through both the lining and outer fabric. This will help secure the lining in place and provide a polished finish.
Optional: Add Pockets or Embellishments
If you want to add extra flair or functionality to your tote, consider adding a pocket to the inside or outside of the bag. You can easily sew a small patch pocket onto the lining before attaching it to the outer fabric, or you can add decorative elements like embroidery or appliqué to personalize your tote bag.
Conclusion
Sewing a tote bag with a flat bottom is a rewarding project that gives you a practical and stylish accessory. The flat bottom adds structure to the bag, making it perfect for carrying larger or bulkier items. By following these simple steps and experimenting with fabric and designs, you can create a custom tote bag that suits your personal style and needs.