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How to Sew a Felt Tote

Tote bags are a common accessories that have become basic fashion necessities. Purchasing a tote can be expensive, but you can make your own simple tote with a couple sheets of heavy-duty felt and a sewing machine. This project requires only basic sewing skills and can be completed in under an hour.

Things You'll Need

2 yards heavyweight felt
Measuring tape
1 roll sturdy fabric ribbon, at least 1 inch wide
Pins
Sewing machine
Thread

Instructions

- 1
  Cut two felt pieces that are 12 by 18 inches. These pieces are for the front and back of the tote.
- 2
  Cut two felt pieces 6 by 18 inches. These are for the sides of the tote.
- 3
  Cut one felt piece 6 by 12 inches. This will be the bottom of the tote.
- 4
  Cut two strips of ribbon for the handles of the tote. These ribbons may be as long as you like, but should measure at least 20 inches. Longer ribbons will naturally give you longer handles.
- 5
  Line up the front and back panels along the bottom of the tote, right sides together (if your felt has right sides). Pin in place and sew, making sure everything is even.
- 6
  Put the side panels of the tote in place and pin. Once everything is lined up, sew each side panel to the front, back and bottom panels.
- 7
  Trim all seams and turn the bag right-side out.
- 8
  Attach one end of one ribbon to the interior of the bag, 2 inches from the corner of the tote. Use the zigzag function on your sewing machine to secure the ribbon in place, going back and forth over the ribbon several times to increase stability. You only need to sew 1 inch of ribbon. The rest of the ribbon should extend upwards and out of the tote. Attach the other end of the ribbon to the front panel 2 inches from the other corner of the tote.
- 9
  Repeat Step 8 with the second ribbon on the back panel of the tote. You now have a felt tote that can be used to carry books, groceries and many other items.

Sewing