The Martha Manual: Mastering (Almost) Everything

How to Sew Tote Bags from The Martha Manual by the Publisher

Crafting versatile tote bags with various buckle and grommet options, the straps can vary from ribbon to leather, as well as other materials. Here are the steps to create a basic tote bag:

1. Cut a piece of canvas to double the desired length of the bag plus 5 inches, and 1 inch wider all around. Fold it in half with right sides together and sew both sides with a ½-inch seam allowance. Then, double-hem the top by folding the edge ½ inch, then 2 inches, and stitch all around. Turn the bag right side out.

Creating a Grommet Tote: 1. Trace the inside of the grommet opening onto the bag with a pencil. Use a craft knife to cut an X in the marked circles. Attach two grommets on the front and back of the bag by following the kit instructions with a mallet or hammer. 2. Thread ribbon through the grommets at the front of the bag. Fold the ends under ¼ inch twice and secure to the other side of the ribbon at the top of the bag. Repeat the process on the back of the bag. (For a cord handle, thread it through the grommets and secure with a knot.)

Supplies needed for this project include a handleless tote, pencil, craft knife, grommet kit, mallet or hammer, ribbon or cord cut to desired length, and standard sewing supplies.

Constructing a Buckle Tote: 1. Sew two buckles to the top edge of the bag's front and back using strong thread, spacing them as desired. Stitch around the center bar of each buckle several times to secure them. 2. Punch holes 1 inch apart in leather strips, starting about 2 inches from the ends. Slide the ends through the buckles and fasten them. For leather handles, hand-stitch an X on each end using colorful waxed twine.

Supplies for this project include sewing supplies, 4 buckles (5/8 inch), a handleless tote, rotary leather punch, and two lightweight cowhide leather strips (5/8 inch wide) cut to the desired length.

Master the art of tote bag making with these simple and stylish designs from The Martha Manual, perfect for carrying your essentials in style.

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