Two Tote Bags in One
Reversible tote bag Pattern
a kid friendly pattern-may need adult help
Materials
Two fat quarters
Thread
Sewing Machine
Pins
Iron
Rotary Cutter, mat and ruler or scissors
Note:
If you use scissors you will need to mark the cutting lines with a pencil or pen. You will also need a measuring tape.
This works best with a rotary cutter, mat and ruler if possible.
Preparing the Fabric
Step 1
-Fold your fat quarter in half so the selvage edge is on the side of the fabric. Repeat with second fat quarter. Trim off the selvage edge.
-Square up both of your fat quarters as shown. Make sure the fold is lined up with a straight mark on the ruler.
Making the Straps
-Cut (2) 2 inch strips from the top or bottom of each fabric.
-You will have 4 strips.
Step 3
-Pin and sew strips right sides together with one fabric on one side and the other on the other side. Only sew the long sides together, leave the ends un-sewn as shown. Use a 1/4 inch seam. Remember to backstitch at each end of each seam.
-Turn the straps right side out and press.
Making the bag.
-Step 1
Fold and trim your two fat quarters so they are the exact same size. They will be around 13 inches by 9 inches folded or 18 inches unfolded.
Step 2
-With right sides together pin each of your fat quarters together around the bottom and open side as shown.
Using a 3/8 inch seam, sew the pinned side and bottom remember to backstitch on both ends.
-Turn the bags right side out. I use a pin to pull the corners out on the bottom of the bags. Press the bags.
Step 2
-Pick one of the bag sections. Measure from the edge to the center and mark 1 inch using a pin. Turn the bag over and measure one inch from the edge, just like you did for the other side.
-Place your finished strap, with right sides together, matching raw edges pin the straps to the bag as shown. Repeat with the other side of the bag.
Stitch the straps in place. You will have one bag with straps and one bag without straps.
Sew Bag Together.
Step 1
-Turn the bag with the straps inside out. Do not turn the other bag inside out! Put the other bag (with no straps) inside the bag with the straps with right sides together.
-Using 2 pins, mark your starting and stopping places. Give yourself a 3 inch opening. This will be the hole for you to turn the bag right side out.
-Match the right edges together and pin and then sew around the top. Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of this seam.
-Pull the bag right side out through the hole in the top. Push one bag into the other bag.
-Press the entire top so you have an even edge. Sew around the top. This will close the opening. Be sure to top stitch close to the edge.
-You will have an adorable bag that looks just like this,
and this.
Happy Sewing!