DIY Reversible Tote Bag | Sew-It-Yourself

Reversible Tote Bag:
After filming we realized this bag was just as cute inside out! Follow our instructions and you'll have a fully reversible bag. Happy sewing!
Supplies:
Tote fabric 5/8 yard
Lining, handles and inside pocket 7/8 yard
Fusible Fleece 2/3 yard
Coordinating thread
Pins, ruler, scissors, sewing machine
Fabric Dimensions
Tote fabric
-2 pieces 17x18”
-Cut away 2” square from each bottom corner (4 total)
Lining fabric
-For handles and pocket cut 1 piece 10x45” (or the width of your fabric)
Take this strip and cut it to 10x26” and then in half again for 2 handles each 5x26”
Remaining piece from the strip (about 10x17”) will be for the pocket
-2 pieces 17x18” and cut away 2” square from each bottom corner (4 total)
Fusible Fleece
-Cut 2 strips 1 1/4x26”
-2 pieces 17x18” and cut away 2” square from each bottom corner (4 total)
Instructions: Use ½” seams
Make handles by folding in half lengthwise, wrong sides together and press. Open and fold each side towards the center crease and press. Open one side and lay fusible fleece inside with rough textured side towards wrong side of fabric laying between the first crease and center crease. Fold fabric over to cover fusible fleece and iron to secure in place (follow fusible fleece manufacture instructions). Bring 2 folded edges together, pin, press and top stitch close to the edge. Also top stitch close on the other edge of the handle. Repeat for second handle.
To make pocket, fold in half right sides together. Pin sides and about 1 ½” from each corner along the
bottom (leave opening to turn) Stitch along pinned edges, trim corners, turn, press and stitch closed the
bottom opening.
Lay one lining piece facing right side up. Pin pocket to lining centering pocket right to left and about 4”
from the top. Stitch ¼” along both sides and bottom.
Take one handle and place one end along top edge of lining 6” from left corner being sure that raw edges are lined up. Pin in place and baste. Curve handle up so that the end of the handle comes to the top edge of the tote and pin 6” from right corner being sure raw edges match. Baste in place.
Now pin lining pieces’ right sides together matching raw edges along sides and bottom. Stitch along the sides and stitch about 2” from each corner along the bottom, back stitching at the end of each section. There will be an opening at the bottom of the lining in order to turn the tote later.
Press seams open and match the side seam with the bottom seam and pin across the opening, it will be
about 4” across. Stitch. Repeat with the other corner and set lining aside.
Iron fusible fleece to back of each tote piece following manufacture instructions. Pin tote pieces’ right sides together matching raw edges along sides and bottom. Stitch along the sides and bottom, back stitching at the end of each section.
Press seams open and match the side seam with the bottom seam and pin across the opening, it will be
about 4” across. Stitch. Repeat with the other corner and set aside.
With right sides together put the tote inside of the lining and pin raw edges together around the top. Stitch. Put hand inside lining opening and fold bag in half and pull thru the lining opening. Along the top edge press the lining to the inside and pin around the top edge. Top stitch along the top edge of the tote for a finished edge. Pull lining out of bag, press opening along the bottom with ½” seam folded in. Stitch it closed and push the lining back inside the tote!!

[@barbra429]

Just a tip that I found really helpful is to fuse your interfacing to the fabric before cutting the piece out. That way when you cut it you don't have to trim around the edges it is perfectly fused and even.

[@marytringale3314]

❤

[@joantardiff8419]

I have made several tote bags following various KZbin videos. I must say that yours is the best and I will use your tutorial from now on. Your instructions are easy to follow, you keep your words to a minimum, no annoying background music, and your annunciation is clear and easy to follow. It was a pleasure to work along with you. Wish I could send you photos of my success! Thank you!

[@marsbeads]

you can cut your fusible fleece a little smaller than your fabric, so that you don't have any of the fleece in the seams. Cuts down on the bulk in the seams.

[@nancyalmasaood2955]

I’ve watched 100’s of these and you were the easiest to follow thanks so much. You also have a very calming voice.

[@dorad.711]

Finally a normal, easy video tutorial!!! Thank you!!!!

[@purpleprincess2211]

Love this, no detail left out! Making one immediately. Thanks for the great tutorial.

[@mmorton6395]

Many thanks for excellent tutorial which also helps people with directional dyslexia. Demonstrating with your hands, the length and width makes things clearer and is often overlooked which is very frustrating. Most people may take this for granted but some, like me, have problems with this skill. Great that you've addressed it. Highly commended. Takes me a long time to learn and this helped enormously.

[@kendalton653]

I make tote bags to hold Prayer Shawls that we give to people in their time of need. This bag turned out beautifully. I am glad I took up sewing when I could no longer crochet. I will continue to use your site because it is so helpful.

[@memo182]

Thank you! It was easy to follow, I dont have sewing machine so I did it all by hand. It took me like 3 hours. I did it for my mom for New Years Eve gift. She loved it. Regards from Mexico City.

[@janeveinotte9850]

there is a no sew stitch witchery kinda like iron glue u can use if you have on machine might help some but um sure it was a wonderful bag made with love that the good kind of bag to have and cherish forever lucky mom

[@RehanaF13]

I did a few by hand myself...even a couple small ones I can keep my phone and wallet in. Like a small phone purse. I added a long strap to both sides too. Can be worn as a crossbody purse, or held by the two side handles. I didn’t make the strap or handles. They were bought from Joann’s. Saves a lot of time and easier 🙂

[@shaash5236]

Oh darling….. your mum must have been so happy! Well done

[@huebinhtrinh4830]

Love your bag and especially love how you talk us through the making process. It is extremely helpful learning it this way. I will definitely pick this design to try. Thanks very much.

[@janhaga5297]

I followed your instructions as I was teaching my 11 year old granddaughter how to make a tote for her to take to school. It turned it so cute. Thank you for such great instructions.

[@marietteforget7804]

Gorgeous bag and you teach really well . Thank you!

[@LynneR1954]

This is the best tutorial ever. My tote bag came out perfect. Thank you!

[@lindashaffer8808]

Love Your Video !!! You're such a great teacher and show every step in great detail... Not a lot of nonsense talk... After watching I feel I can make this. I've always wanted to know how to make a Lined Tote Bag and now I can Thanks to your generosity and Skills.....

[@Bheilla]

Thank you for your great tutorial!!! I made my first bag and it turned out really well. i am a beginner sewer

[@vaishalinipatel4755]

Hi ma'am ! Thanks for your video . I made two tote bags by watching your step by step tutorial.

[@cipimcsweeney5116]

I really enjoyed your video. You are such a great and patient teacher. Your expertise is really appreciated! Thank you so much!

[@donnajoe4442]

I am very happy to have made a bag using your tutorial. It is simple and clear. Thanks.

[@mother2bach]

I’m so glad I found your excellent tutorial. I’d never made a bag before, but I’ve made a bunch of these bags now, for myself and for gifts. I’ve had loads of fun experimenting with different pockets, more pockets… outside pockets… and I’ve made a bigger tote for the beach. Thank you for your perfectly clear instructions :)

[@shonlee5584]

I like how detailed and patient you are to take everyone through this tutorial. You are by far the best coach i've watched. Hoping that you will do a video on how to sew a wrap dress soon. I will be looking out. Thanks Beverly.

[@almaingraham7863]

Beverly you are the greatest teacher, I can understand you very well.

[@emmaanddogs2294]

You are an a amazing teacher!!!! Every detail shown!!! Thank you 😊

[@marybailey6533]

I made one only made it larger! I needed one to carry all my 90 yr old moms stuff when going to out! Was perfect!! Thank you very much

[@kleomcleod5894]

I am a newbie and this has been SO INCREDIBLY helpful!!!! It gives me courage to try!!!

[@leslieschmidt1508]

I just made four of these bags, making two at a time. The first two took 5 hours because I had to stop and watch the video and do each step. Lots of sewing and pinning, but worth the effort. The second two I made 3 inch squares and I like the bag better as it is wider and only 1 inch shorter. Love the fusible fleece inside. Wish the lining were heavier or attached more but it's awesome. Great Christmas gifts for the family.

[@JackieBaisa]

I love the fabric you used for this tutorial (both the outer fabric and the lining) and your instructions were perfectly clear! Thank you.

[@hhspore]

Really clever methodology. still so relevant after so many years. Thank you for sharing this genius approach. Love it ! God bless !

[@mariavillanueva6410]

I am now going to make one. your tutorial was so soothing that I just jumped into sewing a bag. thank you!

[@darlenedealy217]

Great tutorial, loved the fact that you PRESSED as you went along, so many videos and hardly anyone presses, it makes a difference in the finished project

[@beahwatson]

this was the first thing i've ever sewed and you made it so easy to follow!! thanks so much for posting!

[@dorisallen8759]

Great tip about pressing that seam down toward the lining

[@rachelhkaplan]

Thank you SO much!!! I just bought my first sewing machine this week... and now I can't believe I already have an amazing tote bag!!! Great video.

[@betsyhaines8623]

Welcome to the world of sewing I have been sewing for 60 years and love it every day.

[@quailhollow7955]

This is one of the best tutorials ever. You are an excellent teacher.

[@peace102]

Off all the totes I've done this is one of my absolute favorite! I love your technique with pulling it through. That was awesome! Thank you so much for sharing!

[@rachaeldelvaille3886]

This video is still my go-to when I want to make a tote bag-love this teacher's style!

[@denisevaughn7224]

Good day. Mrs. Beverly, I have watched this video multiple time and am sure my daughter and I can follow your teaching. I will post our bags when we are done. Thanks

[@liamfields8181]

Darling! Thanks so much for this video!! I loved your finishing touches!!

[@ClaireSophia]

that bag is so cool and I totally love the fact that it is reversible! adorable fabrics too

[@crystalruby9]

Amazing! Thank you for this video. It’s a beautiful bag and you explained and demonstrated so well.

[@roxque2753]

Thank you 🙏🏼 for this tutorial. Super detailed and a great tote for gift making.

[@gingermielke3009]

This is a very easy beginners tote bag and you are a very good teacher! Thank you so much this is exactly what I was looking for! ❤️

[@lanegardnerallen7555]

I'm planning on making some of these for Christmas presents this year! Your instructions are perfect for me! I'm eager to get started! Thank you so much from Michigan.

[@backinmars4325]

Thanks. Just made my 1st reversible tote bag and it’s perfect!

[@debracotter2143]

I just finished making one of these bags for my dog (yes, even dogs need tote bags!!) and it came out perfect. Thank you for this tutorial, it was easy to follow and easy to make.

[@lilichirillo9769]

I really like your clear and easy instructions. I want to make this! Such cute fabrics too! Thanks.

[@amypotts5655]

How amazing is that blue print!!!

[@warriorl8207]

this is the best tutorial absolutely by far

[@karenbensdon4643]

Love the sewing tips and amount of body the bag has (just enough but not too stiff).

[@cheryltarkington7839]

Thanks so very much for the written instructions to go along with the video. I often do that for myself. I also appreciate the tips.

[@firegirl1970]

I've made several of these totes and sold them after watching your tutorial. It was very easy to follow. Thank you.

[@susankidd9963]

firegirl1970 is

[@spaintown100]

i'm looking for someone to make sample tote bags. if you are you game - [e-mail]....thx

[@Mrs.T13]

Thanks for this tutorial. I followed every step (except the fleece part) and it came out amazing!!!!!

[@fleurdrose5504]

Thanks and especially for the comprehensive list of requirements and instructions complimenting your tutorial. You certainly went the extra mile. Liked and subscribed.

[@zoritsanepenthe638]

Thank you for making this tutorial. I have been wanting to try something other than masks and finally tried this bag. I love it and you explained everything very well.

[@martanieves7785]

I made this bag today, I followed your instructions exactly. I didn’t have fusible fleece but the bag looks great. Thank you

[@keithoickle2257]

You are a fantastic teacher. Great tutorial. Love the tote bag. I made one for each of my 5 sisters. Share lots more of your sewing ideas and tips. Have a great day.....Wanda Oickle

[@murphyslaw2356]

This is so clear, thank you for the instruction 😊

[@carmeladams9566]

Thank you for your instructions. So easy to follow. Greetings from Australia.

[@sumaiacosta136]

I just finished making my 2nd bag ever and it looks so cute. Thanks to you. Great video!

[@jerriharris9674]

Sumaia Costa which interface did you use?

[@ivantteo6021]

Great job and detailed explanation. Thank you for this amazing video.

[@kathykaura7219]

I just finished a bag like this one by following your example, except it's huge; duffle size. I used a thin upholstery clothe that is to die for and it turned out perfect. Thank you for the video. You are helping people everywhere to be successful. Bravo.

[@celticknot226]

Cute bag! Like how the corners are done. Less bulk. Like how you added the fusible fleece over the whole panel. I did one where they only had it on the bottom.

[@whendv6361]

Incredibly detailed .. Thank you

[@daisypopsox]

Thank you - you saved me ! very easy instruction - greetings from UK

[@Forty-three2023]

Enjoyed watching the video during lockdown. Will definitely try it. Thank you for sharing

[@kctsp6631]

Thank you for the tutorial, going to work on one this weekend.

[@debrafernandes6201]

You are a good teacher ,thank you

[@Daniny1107]

Thanks for having simple and easy instructions for a simple strap, lining, pocket and bag!! JJames

[@KarolsKreationsDesigns]

What an awesome tutorial!! Love the detailed step by step.. I want more please

[@rscott9639]

Awesome tuturial. I watched the video several times and finally made myself a bag. Since then I've gotten several requests to make and sell them($35 each) I will eventually try to add a zipper. I use upholstery fabric on one side and normal fabric on the other. Thank you so much!

[@susankitchens2516]

I made a bag for my four sisters and they loved them. So quick, easy and professional looking, or so they said🤣🤣

[@wakeupjoey]

I love this tutorial and love the bag!! I know I'll be making plenty of these. Such a great tote!! Thank you

[@praveensamvel4145]

Thank you so much my mom has been following your tutorial, and stitched 3 bags wit it's help

[@kellyyulo-yackel8135]

Made this today easy and looks great! Thank You for the video

[@catherinepinon9743]

Thanks! It's a great tutorial, very easy to follow even for a beginner like me.

[@darlenestiff1993]

Thank you for the great tutorial! This is the first thing I've successfully made! I'm trying to self teach... Still having trouble squaring and cutting straight. I may try to make another one a little smaller.

[@nurseeducator291]

Awesome video. Thanks for such detailed information on this tote.

[@Sarahnadeee]

This was so easy to follow! Thanks for a great video!

[@sherrysvesnik801]

Very nice tote & tutorial. I was unsure about how to make those corners, but you made it look easy. Will make one soon. Thank you.

[@doinastan8078]

nice bag and nice fabric thanks for the video tomorow i will make this bag

[@kathleenquinlan4414]

Just great and easy to follow. Thanks so much!

[@barbarawhitsett6528]

Kathleen Quinlan I

[@barbarawhitsett6528]

N

[@karenpresley3561]

I like this idea. Thank you. 🌹

[@janeveinotte9850]

thank you good instructions easy to follow and for the measurements other people never give

[@nogaalon1727]

Awesome video!! Explained very well and accurate!

[@vanessabowden2451]

Lots of good tips! Thank you.

[@JillWright1176]

Excellent tutorial! Thank you!

[@lolabailey8298]

You. Are so meticolous. Excellent teacher.bigup

[@christinecolburn2718]

Excellent tutorial. So easy to understand.... Will try this this weekend.

[@boniklick9149]

This is a great tutorial. Thanks a bunch!

[@jeanettegonzalez2151]

GREAT TUTORIAL ... CANT WAIT TO TRY IT OUT THIS WEEKEND :)

[@SumeyyeCicek08]

Çok güzel ve detaylı 👍 kafama takılan her noktayı anlatamazsınız allah razı olsun 😘

[@RehanaF13]

Lovely and easy bag. No pattern which is great! I’ve made a few of these already and given a few as gifts. Thanks for the great tutorial. You’re a super teacher. Just an idea, you can skip making the handles by scratch. You can also purchase the straps to use as handles in your local arts/ crafts or sewing store like Joann’s. They have them on a roll where you can have them cut it for you by the yard. That’s usually what I do. Saves me a lot of time and looks like store bought 🙂

[@rosemarybaker7535]

Great instructions! Love the fabric you chose!

[@aisham869]

Beautiful can't wait to try it

[@daisymay891]

This was an awesome video, thank you!

[@saijaiw.sirikul5088]

Very clearly explanation , can follow easily. Thank you very much.

[@darriusbilly9139]

Amazing easy to follow guides...Thank you so much

[@sakura121094]

Thank you so much! Your tutorial is perfect ;)

[@pennycazzola6958]

Excellent tutorial. Thank you.

[@gaurigirme1000]

Awesome tutorial,great teaching way thanks for sharing mam.

[@doriswalker7881]

That was beautiful,thank you

[@cellyd5120]

i loved this tutorial! Thank you so much ill be taking my tote with me everywhere :)

[@tread0566]

Hi I have just made this tote and love it. I love your channel and very easy to understand instructions.