Chele

If you're like me, I need pictures! If you Google "tote bag tutorial" you'll come up with quite a few.

Here's one that shows the lining and boxed bottom (which took me FOREVER to figure out without pictures!) LOL!

http://craftywench.typepad.com/knitt...asy-tote-.html

P.S. It's super easy once you do the first one. You'll see. If I could figure it out, anyone can!

mic-pa

Yes, make another bag like a linging, then sew and binding around the top. Real easy. Thats what Ido. but before I put the lining in I add a couple of small pockets to the side. Marge

butterflywing

THIS IS FROM A SITE CALLED 'SEW NUVAEU'. DID I SPELL THAT RIGHT/
FRENCH SEAMS

Step 1
Make note of the of the difference between the “right” and “wrong” side of the fabric you are using. The nature of a French seam's construction requires that you be aware of the difference during construction so that they are properly oriented in each step.

Step 2
With the right sides facing out, pin material together, pinning entire length of edge where the French seam will be.

Step 3
Stitch a 1/4" seam allowance along the entire length of the edge pinned in Step 2. Remove pins after the seam allowance has been sewn. Note: contrasting thread shown in photo used for clarity only.

Step 4
Cut seam allowance (sewn in Step 3) to within 1/8" of stitches. Although you may use pinking shears, they are not required. The cut edges will be protected (and hidden) by the completed French seam.

Step 5
Unfold with the right sides up. Press entire length of trimmed seam allowance, pressing both edges flat and to one common side. DO NOT press seam open! Be sure to use a setting on your iron that will not damage the fabric.

Step 6
Fold material along newly created seam with wrong sides out.

Step 7
Press entire length of seam flat at fold on wrong side. Be sure to use a setting on your iron that will not damage the fabric.

Step 8
With wrong sides out, pin folded material together, pinning entire length of pressed seam created in Step 7.

Step 9
Stitch a 3/8" seam allowance along the entire length of the edge pinned in Step 8. Remove pins after the seam allowance has been sewn. Note: contrasting thread shown in photo used for clarity only.

Step 10
Unfold with the wrong sides up. Press entire length of seam flat to one side. Be sure to use a setting on your iron that will not damage the fabric.

Step 11
Give yourself a pat on the back. Note that the right side of the seam is neat and flat. On the wrong side, the cut (or pinked) edges of the seam created in step 4 are now concealed. You're done[b]

k3n

Thanks everyone for your help! My bag is finished, I used Mary's technique in the end cos it looked the easiest! :-)

But the link from Chele showed me how to do the straps - I would NEVER have though of putting batting in them, knew I was saving those little strips for something :wink:

I have also slipstitched a little pocket inside;

Thanks again all!

K x

mary quite contrary

It is beautiful!!!!!

k3n

thanks Mary, couldn't have done it without you!

K x

Quilt4u

Very nice.

Barbm

Looks good!

Mousie

good job! I love tote bags! :-)

sewjoyce

I really like it -- need my address :roll: :roll: