Video Sew-A-Long: Canvas Tote Bag: Part 4: Bag Sewing

Video Sew-A-Long: Canvas Tote Bag: Part 4: Bag Sewing

Machine:

Angela uses the ST371HD Strong & Tough Sewing Machine to construct her bag.
Feet used in this Sew-A-Long: Plastic Non-stick foot, basic Zig Zag foot for straight stitching.

SEWING THE BAG

Fold bag in half with right sides together. Make sure to push the straps toward the middle of the fabric and out of the side seams. Use fabric clips to hold the side seams together.
Stitch down each side with a 1” seam allowance.

If you are lining the bag, there is no need to finish the edges. Otherwise run each side through the serger with a 3-thread overlock stitch. Bias binding is another option

BOXING THE BASE

Mark the center bottom of the bag with a fabric marking pen.

Slide the base of the bag open, aligning the side seam with the center bottom and create a triangle at the corner as shown below:

Use clips to hold the corner in place

Measure about 2 1/2” from the tip of the fabric, draw a line perpendicular to the seam.


Stitch. Stitch a second row for strength.
Trim off the corners, leaving a 1” seam allowance.
Turn the bag right side out. Take care to push the bottom of the corners of the bag out.

Watch this week’s Sew-A-Long Video for the full tutorial:

What’s the schedule?

July 7: Part 1: Supplies and Materials
July 14: Part 2: Constructing the Outside Pocket
July 21: Part 3: Straps & Faux Leather Base
July 28: Part 4: Sewing the Bag
August 4: Part 5: The Lining
August 11: Part 6: The Final Trim

In part 5 of the Canvas Tote Bag Video Sew-A-Long we will sew together the lining and add pockets. Leave comments below and let me know how your bag is coming along and don’t forget to share your photo’s on social media with #AngelaWolf #BrotherSews – I always enjoy seeing your progress!
Cheers,
Angela