What's the secret formula?
 

I love making tote bags for my friends; however, I'm having trouble with the linings. The body of the bags are pieced from whatever I have left over or in a variety of larger pieces. The body of the bag is cut 15 1/2" (tall) by 19 1/2" (wide). Then I sew about a 3/8" or 1/2" seam each on the bottom and sides, leaving the top open. Lastly, I make the 2 1/2" corners at the bottom.

If I cut the lining from a single fabric, how big should it be? 15 1/2" x 19 1/2" is too big and doesn't fit smoothly. Is there some formula that will help me make my bags? I also make smaller bags for my grandkids and some kind of formula would be helpful for that also.

If X is the width of the outer bag and Y is the height of the bag, how much do I make the lining?

Thanks so much for your help!

The lining is supposed to be the same as the outside measurements. If your outside is a fabric that has a nap or something that has bulk to it, it can make the lining a little larger if it is a light weight fabric. Make sense?
You have to be consistent with your seams or you will have problems with the two lining up to fit together. Make sure you are cutting the outside after you quilt it. That can draw it up to make it smaller.

Great tips posted above.

All the bag patterns that I've done use the same size for the bag and the lining.

I have only made a couple bags and the lining was equal sized to the bag. I did find this video from the Crafty Gemini that has some good tips on how to fix a baggy lining.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=PCYktYI-bW4&t=576s

Equal to the size of the original bag of piece of clothing. I have only done a few bags in my time but they always were equal in size. When dress making the linings were always the same size too.

I've found/learned that if i cut the lining about 1/8 of an inch smaller in both directions - say the outside is 15 x 12 - then I would cut the lining 14-7/8 x 11-7/8. This was making bags that the outer layer was quilted cotton and the inner layer was "plain" cotton.

My reasoning/explanation - the outer layer has to "go further" than the inside layer/lining.

However - if using taffeta or satin - something that frays easily - cut it the same size as the outer layer - and I would finish the seams to prevent raveling.

Thanks to all for the suggestions! Will continue to try.

I absolutely agree with Bear and I have made a 'lot' of bags. I would actually make the lining as much as 3/8-1/2 inch smaller in width and height depending on what type of batting or stiffener you use. If you use something like Bosol, it is a good 1/8th inch thick.

I also agree about finishing seams on fabric that frays easily. I have zig zagged the edges of frayable fabric before putting a bag together. It's an extra step but well worth it in the long run.

I have no magic formula but I do know that I loathe sewing the bag and the lining separately, then lining them up, then having to turn it through a small opening, etc. I made a bunch of tote bags using an online video tutorial that made it so, so easy! No having to turn through a small opening, it has french seams, boxed corners, the whole deal. If you want to make matching straps, you can, but I just bought some cotton webbing from online as well and since I was using quilting cotton, I did interface it. You could certainly use something thicker for the outer layer and not interface it.

In the comments, someone gives the measurements for the folding down of the top hem instead of measuring and doing it the way she does in the video but here is the link: https://youtu.be/BglMM_4cKlk

These have held up nicely and I have about a dozen that I leave in the trunk of my car.

I second Sephie's recommendation in post #9 above. I have made many, many, many of Jess OklaRoots' 'My Favorite Grocery Tote' with fantastic results. I have used home decor fabric inside & out with cotton webbing straps - this makes a very sturdy and fully finished tote. I like this method best as the tote is sewn using french seams and can be modified to make as deep or wide as you wish. I have given these as gifts and everyone loves them.

See the link provided in Sephie's post #9 for the various options and measurements.

Good Luck!