How to Sew a Tote Bag Pattern Step by Step (With Measurements and Tips)

A beautifully made tote elevates the everyday. Whether you’re crafting your first bag or refining your technique, the right tote bag pattern and a precise process make all the difference. Below is a couture-level, beginner-friendly guide with exact measurements (imperial and metric), clean construction, and pro tips to help your tote look polished, durable, and chic.

Read more: designer tote bag

Materials & Tools

Fabrics (choose one):

• Medium-weight cotton canvas (10–12 oz), denim, or twill

• Linen canvas for a softer drape

• Leather or faux leather panels for accents (optional)

Notions & supplies:

• Matching polyester thread (Tex 30–40)

• Woven fusible interfacing (midweight) for body and handles

• 1 sheet plastic canvas or bag base (optional)

• Magnetic snap or zip (optional)

• Chalk, pins or clips, ruler, fabric scissors/rotary cutter, iron

Machine setup: Universal needle 90/14 for canvas; heavy needle 100/16 for denim/leather.