Tag Along Tote Bag Tutorial + Giveaway

***This tote bag has been updated to reflect changes in the original shape, size and attachment of the handles. The construction of the bag is similar but the new tote has a slightly different look, size. shape and handle attachment.

So a few months ago I made this bag for a blog conference.I also made these adorable bags for my roommates.
Each one was a little different and personalized.  My roomies loved them and I got several compliments on them. I was asked several times where I got them.  My answer "Umm I made them" . Next question do you sell them and do you have a tutorial?  The answer, yes I make them no I do not have a tutorial. Well Blog readers today I have a tutorial.  This bag takes a bout 1-2 hours and looks great any time of year. I love to take it to the park, the beach or just shopping with a friend. It fits everything you need for a fun day getaway! I love that I can make a new one with beautiful fabric to match anything.  And today you can make one too!  I added an inside pocket for a cell phone too.




Craft Blog Branding

Snap Conference Roommates 

Each one was a little different and personalized.  My roomies loved them and I got several compliments on them. I was asked several times where I got them.  My answer "Umm I made them". Next question do you sell them and do you have a tutorial?  The answer, yes I make them no I do not have a tutorial. Well Blog readers today I have a tutorial.  This bag takes a bout 1-2 hours and looks great any time of year. I love to take it to the park, the beach or just shopping with a friend. I love that I can make a new one with beautiful fabric to match anything.
Here is what you need:
1/2 yard of your favorite fabric
1/2 yard of your second coordinating favorite fabric 
1/2 yard canvas fabric or lining depending on the durability you want.
1/4 yard fabric for your pockets
Coordinating thread
4 "D" Rings 1 inch size or bigger I like 1.5 inch "D" Rings
Free Tote bag pattern


Start by cutting your tote bag pieces.  You will cut 2 for the main body, Inside and canvas and straps.  Cut 1 strip of inside fabric for the pockets. Cut straps 3 inches by 22 inches. I like my straps a little longer.  You may like them shorter.  Go with what you love.  Pocket will be cut width of bottom of the bag and about 6 inches tall.


For handles place 2 fabrics right sides together.  Place canvas on the wrong side of main fabric. 
Stitch along one long edge of handles.  



Press open and fold over showing both fabrics and canvas in the middle. Fold and press long and short edges as though you are hemming the straps.



Top stitch along all sides of the handles
 Sew your ends to a "D" Ring.



Start by hemming your pocket along one long edge.  Take your pocket panel and place it on top of one inside panel. Lining up the bottom edges. Pin down.  I measure mine into 3rd and place a pin. Then stitch a line down.  Securing the fabric and making 3 pockets.  You last seams will come when you we the bag together.


For inside fabric place right sides together. Stitch along the 3 sides. Leaving a 3 inch open seam at the bottom.
Repeat last step for the outside of tote. For outside of bag make a sandwich canvas, fabric RS up, fabric WS up then canvas.
Stitch around bottom and sides. from tip corner to top corner.

Turn inside fabric right sides out. Place inside fabric and  outer fabric right sides together.  Line up edges and pin into place.Stitch all the way around.

Turn bag through opening in the bottom of the inside of the bag.

Press bag, ensuring the insides and outside match up. Begin top stitching around the top handle straps of the tote bag. Stitch the inside opening closed.

Fold the handle, fold ends around a "D" Ring and stitch across.  Repeat this step by attaching the opposite end of the D ring and attach the tote bag straps.