Sewing Basics II: Chubby Tote Bag

Sew your own tote bag!

In this class, we will make a LARGE size tote, measuring approximately 13.5” tall x 13” wide on the bottom x 7”deep. You'll master key sewing techniques, including cutting fabric, sewing straight seams, and attaching sturdy leather handles. We will use rivets to attach the handles and add an invisible magnetic closure.

The pattern includes options to make three other sizes – Small, Medium and X-Large. The small size is just right for a child's tote or a reusable gift bag. Medium and large sizes are wonderful shopping bags and everyday totes, and the X-Large can be used as a beach bag or a giant shopper.

Level: Confident beginner, basic sewing skills required (like threading your machine, winding a bobbin, and sewing a straight line).

INCLUDED in your class fee:

• PDF of the Chubby Tote Bag pattern (Sotak Handmade)
• 2 strips of 16“ by 1” leather for handles
• 1.25 yards SF101 Interfacing
• Invisible magnetic closure
• 8 double-cap rivets in antique brass finish

MATERIALS NEEDED: (fabric requirements are based on 42'' wide fabric)

• FABRIC A (exterior) - 1/2 yard
• FABRIC B (lining) - 1/2 yard 

You will also need:

• Thread
• Sewing machine in good working order with new(ish) needle (size 90/14 preferred) (unless you'd like to rent a machine on a first come, first served basis - choose rental option at checkout)
• Basic sewing kit - scissors, snips, seam ripper, straight pins, etc. (optional, only if you have one - don't buy anything as I have lots of tools to share!) 

SUGGESTED FABRICS:

FABRIC A, B: Designer cotton canvas, duck canvas, denim, Essex linen, cotton/linen blend or medium weight home décor fabrics are recommended. Waxed canvas or oilcloth could also be used for the exterior of the bag (no need to add fusible interfacing in that case).

Note: This will work best if only one of your fabrics is a heavier weight – so if you choose a cotton canvas, denim or home décor fabric, pair it with a quilting cotton, linen or cotton/linen blend. Two lighter weight fabrics – for instance, quilting cotton and a linen – work equally well. 

May 25, 2025, 10 am-2 pm @ Anthology Studio, 77 Suffolk St. W., Guelph

Instructor: Katherine Heyland (@tinycheerhandmade) 

Number of participants: Max. 7