Reusable Totes on a Dime!

As a follow-up to my previous blog about eco-wrapping, I wanted to briefly mention my grocery totes. I was working on these simultaneously and found the fabric at the Salvation army with the rest of my fabric for gift wrapping.

Never having sewn a bag before and being relatively inexperienced in the sewing world, the results were astounding. Following sewing patterns is like trying to understand a 20 step oragami diagram, it just doesn't work for me. So instead, I grabbed a nearby tote and inspected closely.

I found out it was actually really easy to make and ended up cranking out 5 in one night. Shall we take a look at the steps???

Fabric (I chose heavy duty burlap)

Sewing Machine (Thanks Aunt Nancy!!)

First, cut the fabric to a length and width you will be happy with when the fabric is folded in half. I chose to cut enough to make a 16 x 16 bag. Make sure to cut extra to alot for seams and such. 

Next, fold the fabric  in half so the decorative side is on the inside of the fold. Then sew together the each side leaving the top open. (The bottom is the folded edge). I chose to use a straight and zig-zag stitch for extra support and to prevent fraying. 

    To accomplish a square-ish bottom, I had to fold the corners into triangles and sew. Do this to both bottom corners. (Where the fabric is folded)

 Then, on the top, fold your fabric twice over or at least enough to fold under the unfinished edge. Sew.

 Add your straps! I made mine from another heavy duty fabric which I folded over to hide the unfinished edges and sewed. ( I recommend ironing before sewing to get crisp lines)

Once all edges are sewn and straps are in place, turn the bag inside-out. Here is how the bottom should look when you do the triangle stitches at the bottom.

 Bag! I made these for grocery shopping, but they can also be used for anything and can be modified or spruced up any way you like! 

-Laura