5-Step Tote Bag

DIFFERENCE MAKER FUND PROJECT – DIY STEPS

Materials Needed: 2 coordinating cotton fabrics (1/2 yard for the inside fabric and 2/3 yard of main fabric), 1/4 yard fusible fleece, sewing machine, needle, and thread. Optional: A third coordinating 1/2 yard cotton fabric for a pocket.

1. Cut Fabric
   - Main and Inner Fabrics: Cut two pieces that are 17” wide by 19” long
   - Two Straps and Fusible Fleece: Cut two pieces are 30” by 4”
   - Optional Pocket Fabric: Cut one that is 16” wide by 20” long
2. Straps
   Iron the fusible fleece to the back of the strap pieces, fold them in half lengthwise, sew up the long side leaving the two ends open, and turn the right side out.
3. Inner Fabric
   Take the inner fabric and place with the right sides facing each other, sew two sides and the bottom.
   *Optional Pocket: Fold pocket fabric in half so that it is 16” wide by 10” long. Place the outer fabrics together with the right sides together. The pocket needs to go between these two fabrics. Sew down the side, across the bottom, and back up the other side, then snip it off. Do this to all four corners.
4. Turn the Fabric Inside Out
   Turn the inner bag right side out and leave the outer bag inside out. slide them together, slip straps down between the two layers making sure the side with the seam is facing the inner part of the bag, and pin it in place.
5. Turn the Fabric Right Side Out
   Start between two of the straps, sewing all the way around the top, leaving 3-4 inches between the straps to turn the bag right side out. Turn it right side out and press it flat.

You are Finished! Wasn't that easy?

Be sure to document everything with lots of photos to share with Royal Neighbors. This is also the time to send thank-you notes to your donors and volunteers.