How to Make a Tote Bag with a Simple Six-Pocket Design

Whether you use it for grocery runs or weekend getaways, we'll show you how to make a tote bag in just five steps. Roomy and stylish, this DIY slouchy tote (a great sewing project for beginners) is just waiting to be filled with your everyday essentials. And with a deep main compartment and six exterior pockets, you won't be short on storage. In fact, the pockets of this simple sewn bag are cleverly formed when the straps are stitched on—no additional sewing necessary. Check out our free tote bag sewing pattern and get started now!

How to Sew a Simple Bag

Supplies Needed

• ¼-yard cotton fabric (straps)
• Fabric shears or scissors
• Tape measure
• Pencil or pen
• ⅔-yard cotton fabric (pockets)
• 2 10¼×14¼-inch rectangles thin, firm batting
• 1-yard cotton fabric (lining)
• Iron
• Ironing board
• Quilter's pins
• Sewing machine
• Thread
• 6-inch sewing gauge

Finished Tote Bag Tips

• Bag size: 8×10×4 inches
• Quantities are for 44/45-inch-wide, 100 percent cotton fabrics.
• Measurements include ¼-inch seam allowances.
• Sew with right sides together unless otherwise stated.

Step-by-Step Directions

With a few simple sewing skills and these how-to instructions, you can create your own six-pocket tote bag. You should be able to complete this handmade tote bag in about an hour.

Step 1: Cut Your Fabrics

The first thing you'll need to do is decide which fabrics you want to use. You can make this bag from all the same fabric, or opt for three coordinating fabrics for the straps, pocket, and lining. Once you've chosen your fabrics and washed and dried them, cut your pieces in the following order using fabric scissors ($13, Walmart).

For the straps: Cut two 4×34 ½-inch strips

For the pocket: Cut two 14½×16½-inch rectangles

For the lining: Cut two 14½×20½-inch rectangles

Step 2: Assemble Straps

To assemble the straps, take one of your 4×34 ½-inch strips and fold it in half lengthwise with the wrong side inside, and press. Open and fold long edges into the center, then press again. Refold the strip in half and press. Topstitch ⅛-inch from the outer edges to make a finished strap. Repeat this step with your other 4×34 ½-inch strip to make a second strap.

Step 3: Assemble Bag Pieces

Fold one of the 14½×16½-inch rectangles in half lengthwise with the wrong side facing in to make an 8¼×14½-inch pocket rectangle, then press. Repeat with the other rectangle to make a second pocket rectangle. Referring to Diagram 2, with right sides together, layer a 14½×20½-inch rectangle lining rectangle and a pocket rectangle.

Place a 10¼×14½-inch batting rectangle under the layered pieces, then pin all layers together with sewing pins ($11, Walmart). Referring to Diagram 2, pin ends of a strap to the bottom edge of layered pieces, leaving 4 inches between strap edges.

Place a pin on each side of the strap 10¼ inches from the bottom edge. Beginning at the bottom edge of layered pieces, topstitch one side of the strap up to the pin marking 10¼ inches; remove the pin, sew across the strap, and topstitch back down to the bottom edge. Repeat with the remaining side of the strap to complete one side of the handmade bag. Repeat to make the second side.

Step 4: Layer Bag Pieces

Layer both bag pieces with right sides together and pin, making sure to pin the loose portion of straps in place to prevent catching them in stitching. Join the bag around all edges, leaving a 5-inch opening at the top center for turning. (Refer to Diagram 3 for this step.) Press the seams open.

Step 5: Finish Bag

To shape a flat bottom for the bag, at one corner match the bottom seam line to side seam line, creating a flattened triangle (as seen in Diagram 4). Use a sewing gauge ($9, Walmart) to measure 2 inches from the point of the triangle; draw a line across the triangle. Sew on the drawn line, then trim the excess fabric. Repeat with the remaining bottom corner of the bag, then turn the bag right side out through the opening and finger-press the seams. If desired, slip-stitch the lining opening so it's completely closed, then insert lining into the finished handmade bag.

This six-pocket bag is perfect for hauling books, knitting projects, or snacks and can easily be scaled up or down to suit your needs. Once you learn how to make the tote bag, it also makes an excellent reusable gift wrap idea—or gift! Choose customized fabrics for each of your friends or family members or make a matched set and designate each one with a unique embroidered design or initials.