Where to find a bag that is spacious, stylish, sustainable and wonderful? We think that the best bag is a self-made bag. Minttu from PaaPii made instructions for this lovely tote bag. Save these instructions and sew your own unique beach bag!
Material and measurements
Small bag: Two pieces of 43 cm x 47 cm fabric + two of 7 cm x 56 cm pieces for the straps.
Big bag: Two pieces of 60 cm x 70 cm fabric + two of 7 cm x 56 cm pieces for the straps.
This bag has been made of PaaPii’s canvas with the gorgeous Giant Sunflower print. To make one big bag you will need one repeat of the Giant Sunflower print. If you want to sew both a big and a small bag, you will need two repeats.
Sewing instructions
1. Measure and cut the fabric for the bag and the shoulder straps. Note that you will need two pieces of both sizes.
2. Shoulder straps: Fold the piece on the longer side, with the right sides facing each other. Sew the longer sides together. Turn to the right side and iron. Sew a straight stitch on the edges to make a neat finish. You will now have two shoulder straps.
3. Bag: Finish the edges by overcasting or with a zigzag stitching to prevent fraying or unraveling.
4. Sew the side seams with a straight stitch (1cm seam allowance), right sides facing each other. Press the seams open.
5. Sew the bottom seam.
6. Fold over 1 cm on the upper part and iron. Fold over 2 cm and iron. Pin the fold to hold it in place.
7. Measure and decide where you want to place the shoulder straps. Slip the ends of the straps under the fold. Lift the strap and pin it on to the fold. Sew the fold with a straight stitch. Strengthen the seam of the shoulder strap with an extra stitching (see photo).
8. Sew the bottom corners to get a nice shape for the bag. Turn the bag inside out. Place the side seam and the bottom seam against each other, to make the corners accessible. Sew and cut out the corner piece. Finish the edge by overcasting or with a zigzag stitching. Turn the bag the right way.
Your summer tote bag is now ready for the beach!
