👜 How to Make a DIY Tote Bag (Saco de Bricolage)

Certainly! Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to make a DIY tote bag (saco de bricolage). This is a beginner-friendly sewing project, perfect for creating reusable, stylish, and functional bags.

👜 How to Make a DIY Tote Bag (Saco de Bricolage)

✂️ Materials You’ll Need:

• Fabric: Sturdy cotton, canvas, or denim (1 yard/metre)

• Thread: Matching or contrasting

• Straps: Cotton webbing or same fabric (approx. 1 meter)

• Scissors or rotary cutter

• Pins or fabric clips

• Measuring tape or ruler

• Sewing machine (or needle if sewing by hand)

• Iron (optional, for crisp edges)

📏 Step 1: Cut the Fabric

For a Standard Tote Bag:

• Bag Body: Cut two rectangles, each 15″ x 16″ (38 x 40 cm)

• Handles/Straps: Cut two pieces of webbing or fabric, each 20–26″ (50–66 cm) long

Optional: You can add a lining (cut the same as the bag body) for a more professional finish.

🪡 Step 2: Prepare the Handles

If using fabric straps:

1. Cut strips 4″ wide and 20–26″ long.

2. Fold each strip in half lengthwise (like a hot dog), right sides facing in.

3. Sew along the long edge.

4. Turn it right side out using a safety pin or turning tool.

5. Press flat with an iron.

🧵 Step 3: Sew the Bag Body

1. Place the two body pieces right sides together.

2. Pin or clip along the sides and bottom.

3. Sew with a 1/2″ (1.3 cm) seam allowance.

4. Optionally, zigzag or serge the edges to prevent fraying.

🧼 Step 4: Create a Boxed Bottom (Optional)

This gives the bag depth:

1. At each bottom corner, pinch the fabric so that the side seam and bottom seam align, forming a triangle.

2. Measure 2″ (5 cm) from the tip and mark a straight line.

3. Sew along the line and cut off the excess triangle.

4. Repeat for the other corner.

📎 Step 5: Attach the Handles

1. Turn the bag right side out.

2. Fold the top edge of the bag over about 1″ (2.5 cm) and press.

3. Fold again to hide the raw edge (another 1″), press again.

4. Place the ends of each strap inside the folded hem, about 3″ (7.5 cm) from each side seam.

5. Pin in place.

6. Sew around the top edge of the bag, close to the fold, and again near the top edge to secure the straps.

🌟 Optional Additions:

• Pocket: Sew a small rectangle on the inside or outside before assembling the bag body.

• Button or Snap: For a closure.

• Fabric Paint or Embroidery: Decorate your tote!

✅ Final Tips:

• Wash and iron fabric before cutting.

• Reinforce strap attachment with a box or “X” stitch for durability.

• Use thicker fabric for shopping totes or beach bags.

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