Looking for a cute bag to make to carry all of your summer essentials? Well, look no further--this quilted tote bag can hold a lot, and looks stunning as an accessory! If you haven't quilted before, this bag would be a good starter project to learn the basics. This project is also beginner-friendly for those newer to sewing.
Materials:
Fabric for squares, lining
Material for tote handles
Zipper (I used a 22 in. zipper) - optional
Instructions:
Start by cutting your scrap fabric into 4.5 x 4.5 inch squares. You'll need 40 squares total to cover the outside of the tote bag. Once all your squares have been cut, lay them out how you want the pattern to look. Or, you can just arrange them randomly as you go! I did different designs on both sides, so it doesn't really matter as long as you're happy with the design.
Sew the squares together*, starting in pairs and working your way out. Your finished piece should be an 8x5 square rectangle. Sew with a 3/8 inch seam allowance.
*Place two squares together, with pattern side facing inward, and sew up the right side. Turn the sewn squares out again and iron the crease! Continue until all pairs are sewn together, then attach the pairs and singles together until you have two sections of fabric (4x5 squares). Connect the two sections of fabric to form a long rectangle (8x5 squares). Don't forget to iron your seams out!
Cut the lining to (roughly) the same size as the front. This should be about 20x30 inches. Don't worry if the lining is bigger than the front, you can always trim it later. Pin the lining securely to the front (patterned sides facing outward) Take this to your machine and begin quilting the two pieces together. I stitched up and down the lines between the squares on mine, but feel free to stitch any pattern you want!
Fold the rectangle in half (burger style) with the lining facing out, and pin in place. With a 3/8 inch seam allowance, sew down the sides and across the bottom of your bag. When you're done, flip the bag right-side out and iron the edges.
There are a couple of choices for handles. I cut up an old fabric belt and used that for my tote handles, which ended up being the perfect size. However, you could also make your own handles out of fabric or use some other material. Regardless of what material you use, your handles should each be between 18 and 24 inches in length (mine were 18). Mark equal points from the center on each side of your bag, then carefully sew the ends of your handles to the bag.
At this point you can choose to be done, or you can add a zipper. I decided to add a zipper, as I thought it gave the bag more of a finished look, but it's optional. If you do decide to add a zipper, I used a 22 inch zipper. It was a little too long, but I modified it and just cut off the extra. If you decide to add a zipper, just be careful there are no raw edges sticking out, and that both sides of your zipper are EVEN. I cannot stress this enough.
Enjoy your quilted tote bag! Maybe take it to the beach?
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