Sew Fast Sew Easy: All You Need to Know When You Start to Sew (9 page)

Chapter 7

Go to It: HOW TO MAKE A TOTE BAG

In addition to the pattern in the back of the book and your survival kit basics, you will need:

• 1 yard fabric, 45 to 60 inches wide (see Chapter 2 for ideas)

• 1 yard lining (or contrasting fabric) 45 to 60 inches wide

• 1 yard
fusible
weft (36 to 60 inches wide)

• 1 yard
needlepunch
(36 to 60 inches wide)

• All-purpose thread to match

• 1 yard seam binding

A Note About Fusible Weft and Needlepunch:
Weft is a heavyweight fusible interfacing, which is used to stiffen the body of the tote bag. Needlepunch is a nonwoven fabric with a spongy texture, which adds body to the tote bag. These materials will help the bag stand on its own. Use one, both, or neither.

Layout

Lay out the fabric right-side up. Lay the tote pattern on the fabric. Make certain that the straight grain line is parallel to the selvage. Pin the pattern to the fabric. Pin the pocket and the strap, making certain the straight grain is parallel to selvage. Cut one bag, two pockets, and two straps. (Remember the
Cutting Rules
) Clip the notches (see below) using the tips of your scissors.

Use this guide to help you understand the following tote diagrams

TOTE BAG LAYOUT

LINING

Lay out the lining fabric faceup. Lay the lining pattern on the fabric. Make certain the straight grain is parallel to the selvage. Pin. Cut. Clip notches (see below).

If you are using weft, cut out the tote bag pattern and straps. Clip notches.

If you are using needlepunch, cut out the tote bag pattern and one strap. Fold the strap in half lengthwise; cut along the fold. Otherwise, the thickness will make turning the strap difficult.

FUSIBLE OR NEEDLEPUNCH

These are the notches to clip on your tote pattern (Rule 9 of the Cutting Rules):

Tote bag at center for pocket placement

Tote bag at top and bottom for handle placement

Tote bag at the sides near the top and bottom

Tote bag at the sides near the middle

Tote bag lining at the sides near the top and bottom

Tote bag lining at the sides near the middle

Strap at top and bottom