How To: Lined Tote Bag

I had this great piece of embroidered home dec fabric that was just screaming for me to make something with it. Cut out two fancy fabric pieces 17" x 13 3/4", one bottom piece of the same size, but a heavier fabric. For the pocket, cut two 7" x 5 1/2". Straps: cut two fancy fabric and two bottom fabric pieces (total of 4) 2" x 24 1/4". Cut one lining and one fleece 17" x 36 1/4". I was using stuff I already had at home, so feel free to substitute.
Sew the outside fancy pieces to either side of the bottom piece- right sides together so the bottom ends up in the middle, 1/2" seam allowance. Press seams toward the bottom and layer on the fleece, wrong sides together. Top stitch 1/4" away from the seam through all layers.

Sew the straps, right sides together, 1/4" seam allowance. Turn right side out, press and top stitch down the center.


Sew pocket pieces, 1/4" seam allowance, right sides together. Leave a space open for turning. This will give you a lined pocket. Turn, press, edge stitch the top edge only.

Top stitch the pocket to the lining. Sew the side seams of the outside bag, right sides together, 1/2" seam allowance. Do the same for the lining, but leave a space for turning later.

Box the bottom: flatten the bag as shown and stitch across 2 1/4" in from the end. This creates depth. Do the same for the lining corners. Attach the handles to the bag upper edge. Sew the lining, right sides together, 1/2" seam allowance, to the upper edge of the bag, with the straps on the inside. Turn right side out through the hole in the lining, stitch up the hole. Reinforce the straps by sewing over them again as you top stitch 1" around the top edge of the bag.

Inside view of the pocket.

Side view of the seam nicely matching up.

A pretty classy bag, even if I do say so myself! Hope you enjoy your new bag and please check out my other patterns for sale in my shop-

http://catsongstitchery.etsy.com