How to Sew DIY Lined & Unlined Tote Bags

Learn how to sew simple lined and unlined tote bags for everyday use, gifts, shopping, sewing supplies, and more.

Simple Step-by-Step Tote Bag Measurements for Practical Everyday Sewing

Dear Readers and Subscribers,

A tote bag is one of the most practical sewing projects you can make—but for many beginners, vague instructions can make the project confusing.

So instead of guessing, here is a straightforward tote bag tutorial with actual cutting measurements for both lined and unlined tote bags.

This project is beginner-friendly, customizable, and useful for everyday life.

Finished Tote Bag Size

This basic tote finishes at approximately:

16” wide x 14” tall x 4” deep

This is an ideal size for:

Groceries

Books

Sewing supplies

Everyday errands

Lightweight travel

Gift bags

Materials Needed

For Unlined Tote:

1 yard sturdy cotton, canvas, denim, or duck cloth

Matching thread

For Lined Tote:

1 yard exterior fabric

1 yard lining fabric

Optional interfacing for structure

Tools:

Sewing machine

Fabric scissors or rotary cutter

Measuring tape

Pins or clips

Iron

Cutting Measurements

Bag Body Pieces:

Cut 2 exterior pieces:

18” wide x 16” tall

(Extra fabric includes 1/2 inch seam allowance and top hem)

For Lined Tote Only:

Cut 2 lining pieces:

18” wide x 16” tall

Straps:

Cut 2 straps:

4” wide x 24” long

To Sew Straps:

Fold the strap lengthwise, right sides together for a 1/2" seam allowance

Sew the long edge

Turn the right side out

Press flat

Topstitch both edges

Finished strap width:

Approximately 1.5 inches

Optional Boxed Corners

To create depth:

Cut out 2” squares from each bottom corner.

Sew the corners with a 1/2 inch seam allowance. 

This creates a 4-inch depth.

How to Sew an Unlined Tote Bag

Step 1:

Place bag pieces right sides together.

Step 2:

Sew sides and bottom using ½” seam allowance.

Step 3:

Box corners if desired.

Step 4:

Fold the top edge down ½”, then another 1”.

Press and stitch.

Step 5:

Attach straps:

Position each strap 4 inches from the side seams.

Sew securely with reinforced X stitching.

How to Sew a Lined Tote Bag

Step 1:

Sew exterior pieces together.

Step 2:

Sew lining pieces together, leaving a 4” turning gap at the bottom.

Step 3:

Box corners if desired.

Step 4:

Insert straps onto the exterior.

Step 5:

Place exterior inside lining, right sides together.

Step 6:

Sew around the top edge.

Step 7:

Turn through the lining gap.

Step 8:

Close the lining gap.

Step 9:

Push lining inside the bag, press, and topstitch.

Optional Customizations

You can add:

Interior pockets

Exterior pockets

Key loops

Magnetic snaps

Decorative trim

Contrast straps

Reversible options

Fabric Suggestions

Best for structure:

Canvas

Duck cloth

Denim

Upholstery cotton

Best for softer totes:

Quilting cotton with interfacing

Linen blends

Lightweight home décor fabric

Beginner Tip

For your first tote:

Choose medium-weight cotton or canvas in solid colors or simple florals.

Avoid slippery or stretchy fabrics.

A properly measured tote bag project removes confusion and gives you a reliable sewing formula you can use repeatedly.

Once you master this design, you can easily resize for:

Mini totes

Market bags

Beach bags

Craft totes

Teacher bags

Gift totes

DIY tote bags are economical, practical, stylish, and excellent for both personal use and selling.

Simple sewing can still create beautiful, professional results.