How To Sew A Chubby Tote Bag | Beginner Friendly

Learn how to sew a classic tote bag.
You can now purchase a pdf instant download pattern on how to sew this tote bag (plus three additional sizes) here: www.etsy.com/listing/10112117...
To make this bag you will need:
(2) - 18'' wide x 15'' tall exterior panels
(2) - 18'' wide x 15'' tall lining panels
(2) - 18'' wide x 15'' tall interfacing, I used Pellon SF101
(2) - 3/4'' x 16'' long leather straps or cotton/polyester webbing
(I buy my leather straps from LeatherEU on Etsy)
Here's a link to my tutorial on how to make your own fabric handles in case you prefer those over leather handles: • Detailed STEP BY STEP ...
Please use #sotakhandmade when sharing your projects on social media :)
INSTAGRAM: / sotakhandmade
PATTERN SHOP: www.etsy.com/shop/SotakCo
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WEBSITE/BLOG: www.sotakco.nl/

[@Shannyfrizz]

37 people have no respect. I can't believe they thumbed this down. the amount of creativity and time it took to make this video is amazing. thank you for sharing!!!

[@AJmakesIt]

I said the same thing.... I'm like yal haters there is absolutely nothing wrong with this video she literally gave you every step and every peice of material she used...

[@ushalax77]

It must be the jealous seamstresses thumbing it down. I made one and it turned out great! Such clear instructions. Very nice tutorial.👍👍

[@RisingNutrition]

Agreed. It’s a great tutorial. Forget the haters.

[@kimday844]

Very good video. You explained everything so well. Thank you, I can’t wait to make one!

[@neeisme]

​@@ushalax77I'm with you! I'm making a 2nd one by request from the person I made my 1st one for!

[@user-tc2ox7bl7j]

Your tutorial was excellent! Your directions were clear and to the point. I’ve been sewing for 65 years, but someone who is new to sewing would have no problem following your tutorial. Great job!!!

[@melindawinton7481]

I could watch you for days Svetlana - you explain things so clearly and at just the right pace!

[@sotakhandmade]

that makes me so happy, thank you :)

[@saintofgod1244]

True

[@MadeByTriniLena]

I sew agree❤️🪡✂️🧵👛

[@meadowlane637]

So true! This is the first video of yours that I've watched and I plan on watching all of them now.

[@jerrylamore5551]

Hello, how are you doing my friend

[@gothhydran2241]

Thank you for this! I started sewing a similar bag from Pinterest but couldn't figure out the directions or the photos with it. Finally finished it tonight as a present for a friend thanks to your video.😄 The only difference is that I made my own handles from the extra fabric I already had.

[@sotakhandmade]

Glad it was helpful!

[@defender_of_wonder]

This tutorial couldn't be more perfect unless you were physically sitting in my home teaching me! Your calming voice and detailed directions made me a new subscriber! I hope you have more tutorials like this one! Thank you for sharing your sewing 🧵 expertise! Be safe and healthy 😷Take Care! Happy Holidays!

[@hopepadilla2410]

This looks easy for me. It’s be a long while. I want to try first with canvas and faux leather. Before I use real leather. You make it look easy I would like to see how to make a small zip makeup bag or a small bag for medical device.

[@ranasha5317]

Same thoughts I have I made tote bag out of jeans cloth It came out perfect 🥰

[@nikkimedlin6162]

Agreed ♥️ so clear, I successfully made a tote bag today. Thank you 😊

[@hilarygibson3150]

I can honestly say I have never seen anyone give such clear instructions. Brilliant!

[@sotakhandmade]

That’s a great honor, thank you 😘

[@joycenichols8704]

How do I go about your leather straps and polyester webbing

[@chrism1190]

I just finished my first bag thanks to this video. The only real difference with mine was I added a window in the outside panel for a dye sublimation print of my friend and her husband and then put on the interfacing to give it stability. She loved it. Thanks so much Svetlana!

[@sotakhandmade]

That is awesome!

[@ravenjoy918]

I bought a tote bag pattern off of Etsy and immediately was lost when I got the directions. So, I came to KZbin to look for answers when I stumbled across this in-depth tutorial. As someone who only knows basic sewing skills, I was thrilled to find an easy video that catered to someone wanting to make a tote bag that wasn’t flimsy! I literally had this tutorial playing from start to finish and created a beautiful bag in 5 hours! Although it seems like a lot of time to some, I’m thoroughly impressed with myself 😂 I’m already starting my second one of the day. Thank you so much!

[@sotakhandmade]

that's absolutely wonderful to hear :)

[@Kwantifye]

What a beautiful bag! I can't wait to get started on it. You have excellent teaching skills - your tutorial was fantastic!

[@juliescheidler7763]

I made this bag, it was my first-ever. It was quite easy with my basic skills, I'm so proud of it! Thanks so much for a great tutorial!

[@jerrylamore5551]

Hello, how are you doing my friend

[@KonziYT6152]

Finally I found a clear and easy way to make a tote as a beginner. Really appreciate it😊

[@sotakhandmade]

You’re welcome 😊

[@katherineozbirn6622]

No thumbs down from me! Must be jealous people. Total thumbs up!!

[@cozybycaroline8988]

I gasped when she turned it inside out (outside in?). Sooooo amazing!!!! Can’t wait to give it a go

[@cindysimoes2260]

I'll be making this one this weekend, actually 2 one for a dear friend, and 1 for myself! Can't wait for the next video! Thanks so very much, ANOTHER awesome tutorial!

[@jerrylamore5551]

Hello, how are you doing my friend

[@EvansDavid-zn3hi]

Love the bag. This is one of the simplest videos I have come aross. The instructions are so simple

[@nancys5996]

Wow, what a clear, concise and descriptive tutorial. I think I can do it! Now to find a tutorial for making a bag with a drawstring top. Thank you!

[@sotakhandmade]

Glad it was helpful!

[@mingus107]

What a wonderful tutorial! This would make great Christmas gifts!

[@lotionspotions3143]

Wow - great tutorial! So impressed that I went straight to Amazon and bought your book. Can’t wait to make this bag. Thank you!

[@reneejones9662]

There is a book! Oh no, I love books....

[@julieritter8087]

I wish "YOU" could do all the tutorials that I need for all the different sewing projects I want to do. Thank you for such a Great tutorial!!!!

[@SpecialSongs78-eo1nq]

Your explanations are so clear and user friendly. Your one of the best. Thank you so much for your expertise !!!

[@dkmm5037]

This makes soooo much more sense to me than Others!!! THANKS!!!

[@TheIdeabaker]

You are a fantastic teacher...clear, step by step instructions with clear visuals. My sewing group recommended your tutorials and I see why. Definitely making this. You’ve got another new subscriber! Thank you! 💕

[@gloriamanns5193]

I found you on KZbin last year and made several of your bags. You are simply the best instructor I’ve watched. I’ve ordered the instructions for the various sizes of the chubby Totes. Thank you for making these videos.

[@georgielewis4180]

I just bought your pattern and am so excited to make this this coming weekend. This tutorial removed a lot of the fear I had about making this. Thank you so much! I love your blog too! xoxox

[@sotakhandmade]

Have fun!

[@aenbrauer1765]

I just made myself a Chubby Tote Christmas Bag!! Thank you so much!!!

[@victoriawilson2402]

I just made my first bag and it was so much faster and easier than I thought it would be. Thanks so much for the tutorial, it’s perfect!

[@jerrylamore5551]

Hello Victoria, how are you doing?

[@scalare70]

Omg....i could listen to you for days hon.... Sooo pleasing voice and an EXCELLENT tutorial in general!! I have TONS of ideas. Thank you - thank you :)

[@christinecullen3336]

You explain everything so perfectly and succinctly!

[@Lilyfae84]

Thank you so much!! I just made my mother in law this in a jacquard and quilting cotton lining for her birthday (Just After Christmas ) thank you for giving me the confidence that I can make it- and yes! Everything matched up beautifully!!

[@meow0103]

Love your step by step guide ❤ Love the way you explain ❤ Love your voice and the clarity ❤ Love the bag ❤ Thank you very much indeed for sharing your expertise and creation 🙏🙏🤗

[@jerrylamore5551]

Hi, how are you doing my friend

[@cstre2091]

This tutorial was absolutely the most fun to watch!! Being new to sewing, my favorite part was seeing how the lining & outer fabric were assembled and then sewn together...your instructions are flawless & I agree that it was as if you were sitting next to me in my sewing room.💕 Can't wait to make bags for my family & friends!!!

[@hopstreet]

Made this with my daughter. So cool and easy to follow. Turned out great! Thank you for this!!

[@sotakhandmade]

Yay, so happy to hear that.

[@wandak1934]

I just found your site today. Your the first seamstress that I could follow and understand your instructions from start to finish. I hope I get a new machine soon and I will be making these bags. By the way. I love your accent, it's very nice.

[@jerrylamore5551]

Hi Wanda

[@karenhamilton504]

Such a great step by step tutorial. I’m thinking of making my own bags to take to the grocery store, which would save from using so much plastic bags. Thank you!

[@jerrylamore5551]

Hi Karen

[@marjoriepark1198]

Absolutely love this idea. Great teaching methods that you have. I made one overall about 2 inches bigger and every dimension and used canvas webbing belt fabric for the handles and old upholstery fabric for the bag. I needed it take enough to carry my iPad holder and my tablet and it’s just the ticket. Went together seamlessly no pun intended. I’ll be watching your channel for more great ideas thank you Marjorie from Georgia US

[@RoeRoe123]

What a wonderful teacher you are. I love this chubby bag 🤗😍 This would be great for many things, knitting or crochet to go, adult coloring books, anything! There's so much space.

[@toniwright8472]

OMG! your tutorial was fabulous you explain it all so simple I love it I am going to make this bag, Thank you!

[@debsg66]

You did such a great job with the instructions, I believe even I could sew this bag!! Thank you!

[@FFPages]

thank you for the detailed tutorial. I cut it out yesterday evening and sewed it this morning. I am so proud, it is a beautiful tote. Will use this to sew more totes..

[@tawandaaiken203]

I made this bag last night and love it! Thank you for a detailed tutorial! I'm going to give them as Christmas gifts.

[@MelissaJoyW]

I made this bag this afternoon, and I’m pretty inexperienced ( I’ve been sewing 7 months) and it took me about 3 hours. It turned out fabulous! Love this tutorial! Thank you, btw... this is an excellent size to use as an everyday purse!

[@jerrylamore5551]

Hello, how are you doing my friend

[@gavida3]

Love the simplicity of this tutorial. I would love to see an add on for adding a recessed zipper. Your videos are so easy to follow.

[@Sh0elace12]

I agree. I seem to best understand these tutorials and am anxiously awaiting each new video. A recessed zipper would be perfect!

[@jerrylamore5551]

Hi, how are you doing my friend?

[@andreyheather]

Just made my first two. I forgot how long it takes to cut the fabric, I cut 4, only had time to finish two. Next time I'll cut ahead. Really great tutorial, and super easy to follow. My bags look great, I am impressed. Thanks! I also used your handle making tutorial.

[@surban4369]

I've made several bags, drawstring, and Kam snap bags using another of Svetlana's patterns available on Etsy. Directions/fabric measurements worked perfectly. Thank you for this video!

[@millymolly5266]

Thank you Svetlana. Your tutorials are always so clear. These would make wonderful Christmas gifts.

[@sotakhandmade]

Great idea, enjoy 😊

[@jerrylamore5551]

Hello Amanda, how are you doing?

[@cecilehoare3053]

Love the detail in your tutorial Svetlana! One small tip, before you close up the lining seam in the bottom, if you sew a couple stitches on the wrong sides with the corner seams matched it anchors the corners in place so they don't shift inside. This helps if you make them washable or if you make them reversible.

[@sotakhandmade]

Great tip, thank you 😘

[@jerrylamore5551]

Hi, how are you doing my friend?

[@broshad]

Thank you. You are very clear in both your verbal and visual direction. I just completed my first-ever sewing project. I changed the dimensions which was right for my purposes and I used a second-hand quilted material as the outer fabric, which made the project a little more challenging than I would have liked, but your instructions got me through. Great tutorial!

[@Jenjane55]

My favorite tutorial. I refer to it often.

[@snappiestfish]

I can’t wait to try this out! Thank you so much for sharing!

[@jerrylamore5551]

Hi Carol

[@katffan]

Thank you so much for this amazing tutorial! Love from Greece

[@jerrylamore5551]

Hello, how are you doing my friend?

[@bulldogmama8907]

I’m so happy and pleased with my new tote bag! Your instructions were spot on!! So easy yet unique and beautiful! Only took a few hours from start to finish!! Thank you for this great tutorial!

[@suedodd639]

I’ve just made my first tote bag ever using your wonderful tutorial. I used a lovely linen/cotton fabric with blue anchors and a navy duck canvas lining with navy leather handles. It’s turned out gorgeous! I’m thrilled. Definately the first of many and I now know what my “secret Santa” contribution will be at Christmas!! Thankyou so much for your patience and excellent teaching xx.

[@ainejames5610]

very clearly explained and easy to follow

[@jerrylamore5551]

Hi Aine, how are you doing

[@luvasci8368]

That was super. You did it so well and the explanation was spot on. Loved your accent too. Definitely making this over the weekend 👍🏼

[@jerrylamore5551]

Hello, how are you doing?

[@luvasci8368]

@@jerrylamore5551 I’m awesome 👍🏼

[@jerrylamore5551]

@@luvasci8368 how are you doing my friend

[@jerrylamore5551]

@@luvasci8368 hope you are safe from the virus

[@Bubblema1951]

I’m following your tutorial and making two bags. One for me and one for my daughter. Very clear instructions. Love it. Thanks

[@florencecg9749]

I found this so clear and helpful! have watched many tutorials and this was super easy to follow thank you for posting!

[@Sewmuchtodo]

Amazing as always. I personally like leaving the opening on a side seam as opposed to the bottom seam because I like my lining to sit as flat as possible on the bottom.

[@sotakhandmade]

yes, that's definitely a good option.

[@karlak.7862]

Sometimes I'll hand stitch it closed with a ladder stitch to keep it neat. I don't like the machine stitch at the bottom either. 😊

[@itsmyparty4637]

I always cover a strong cardboard base board and slip it inside, it stops the lining from moving up and makes a nice ridged base.

[@SuperCgonz]

Omg I can’t wait to try this, tyfs!

[@mrs.robinson1828]

Excellent tutorial. Even a beginner can sew this in an evening. I've used black felt for the exterior and patterned fabric from clothes I was going to get rid of as lining- looks like a designer bag at next to no cost!

[@dianed6509]

I made this for my 89 year old mother for a Christmas gift. It turned out so pretty! I used an old woven belt from my son's closet for the handles, she LOVES it! Thank you for sharing your talents!

[@yukiwecker895]

I'm glad KZbin recommended this channel to me. Your instructions are simple and easy to follow and your editing is great. I'm looking forward to watching more of your content. =)

[@sotakhandmade]

Thank you so much 😊

[@jerrylamore5551]

Hello, how are you doing my friend?

[@spenciegirl9630]

Love this tutorial!! I’ve sewn forever and many bags as well, but I like this approach so much better! Thank you so much!!!

[@marshamcginnis3748]

Oh my gosh - This is the best bag tutorial ever. And I think I've watched them all!!!

[@paddyanne2024]

I love your calm, quiet yet confident manner of speaking and presenting. Thank you for sharing your talent and knowledge in such a restful way.

[@sotakhandmade]

So nice of you

[@janissharkey7174]

How gorgeous. I love your choice of fabrics and your style of teaching. Thank you for generously sharing your expertise.

[@lyndaborges6020]

Thank you for clearing up the cobwebs on making a bag.

[@carynb9386]

This was so easy because you were so easy and detailed in your explanation and pace!!! I chose vinyl for my outside panel and it is so darling! I love it!!!

[@chrisdale5938]

Just followed the instructions to make this bag and it couldn’t be easier. I’ve made it for my daughter to carry her works things to and from. Hope she likes it. Thank you so much for the tutorial, it couldn’t have been easier.

[@gardengirl694]

I’ve been sewing for a year now. Mostly bags and little pouches. I’ve followed a number of people and tutorials on KZbin to learn. I still struggle. After watching just two of your, very well explained videos, I see exactly what I’m doing wrong! Thank you so much for the wonderful information. I love your channel!

[@Nicky-xz6gw]

This tutorial is absolutely perfect. Im gonna buy my fabric and i'm definitely rewatching this tutorial you explained everything so well! ☺😁😀😍

[@alfiesflower8218]

Hello ,I’ve just come across your channel and your way of teaching is so clear and straight forward. Every part of the pattern was explained straight to the point and it was amazing. Thank you so much. 💞💞💞

[@-sherrisprague394]

This was a wonderful tutorial! No unnecessary talking just straight and to the point . That helps me a lot ! You also have a pleasant calm voice. I am going to make this bag tomorrow!! So excited . I also wrote instructions out step by step that helps me also . Thank you souch for putting up this video , I liked and subscribed . Will check out your other videos.

[@Myspirit904]

I love bags and couldn’t wait to come home from work to get started in this and just now finished it. I love it! It is the perfect size. I have some leopard print vinyl and want to make another with it! Thank you so much for a great tutorial! 💕

[@MSL_60]

Fantastic bag! and what a fantastic teacher! Clear, calm, precise. Thank you so much - I can't wait to make dozens of these with my stash!

[@lourdesgutierrez6062]

I’ve seen tons of tote bag videos and I found yours to be the easiest. I believe it’s because of the way you explained so clearly. Thank you so much. Not everyone is gifted with teaching, YOU, definitely are!!! Thanks again.

[@sotakhandmade]

Yay! Thank you!

[@laceysaxon3225]

Fantastic easy instructions. Thank you! I finished my first one for my daughter. Now I am going to make myself one!! Very easy to follow. Thank you.

[@kerryhanson909]

I made a bag in hours this weekend. So easy and I love it!! Thank you!!

[@kimwyne8113]

Thank you for the tutorial. As a beginner, it was simple to follow. Wonder teacher. I finished in about 2 1/2 hours. So happy To complete a project in one sitting. Thank you again❤️

[@Lpsb232]

I love how you iron your seams open on bag projects. I never thought of doing it that way. I can’t wait to make a bag and try it. Thanks for teaching me something new and super useful.

[@sotakhandmade]

Have fun!

[@aufan7134]

Love the simplicity that your instructions make this bag. I will be a follower of yours, thank you.

[@coleenh1028]

What great instructions! I just bought your pattern and can't wait to make it! What a beautiful bag!

[@elainemurphy3048]

What an absolutely professional tutorial! Each step along the way was detailed and demonstrated with clarity. I'm so happy I found your channel and can't wait to make this bag!! Thank you so much!

[@imariser1111]

I made this bag in just a few hours and I was taking my time during this cold snowy day! Love it! TY for such a wonderful tutorial! I used faux leather straps only because I never sewed leather before was scared it would be too thick, it still looks classy! I’m thinking of moving to heavyweight interfacing next time and maybe add a hook closure or something!

[@annatag933]

Hi Svetlana, I made two of the chubby tote bags for Christmas presents this year (2020). Your directions were clear and so easy to follow. The items turned out perfect and I know the recipients will get good use out of them. Thanks so much!

[@karenhamilton504]

I made this bag today. It was very easy and it’s so cute! Thank you for exact instructions!

[@cbrusselssprouts8056]

You're truly an inspiration! I only just realised i've been following you on Instagram since a long time ago!! always loving your products as well as fabric choices!

[@user-dg5qp3ik9c]

You are amazing! I am a new sewer and this project was easy to follow because of your explanations and the demonstration of each step. My family will enjoy their Christmas presents this year! Thank you.

[@sotakhandmade]

Wonderful!

[@lauravanhook1987]

i didn't have the PUL fabric, so i used a waterproof table cloth that had a fuzzy back as my interior. THANK YOU this was quite easy and easy to follow. AWESOME.

[@sotakhandmade]

Wonderful!

[@augustaporter3735]

I have made many bags and I checked out your instructions and you are very good to give easy instructions. I will tell my friends about your instructions friendly video. You show before you do! Thank You for being such a good teacher! Good lesson for my beginner friends.

[@clmoss83]

Thank you for this wonderful video! So easy to follow along. I’ve now made two of these bags and proudly given them away as gifts!

[@catchermom4090]

Excellent tutorial. Not unnecessarily long or over explained. This was simple and easy. Thank you so much. Going to go check out your other videos.

[@reginadansbee8477]

I think your tutorial is fabulous! Your voice, combined with detailed instructions (but not overly explained), make this a great tutorial. Thank you!!! I'm a new subscriber... cannot wait to watch more of your videos.

[@valree76]

This was perfect! I made the large size using some African fabric that I brought back from vacation. I’m ready to make another one!

[@sotakhandmade]

Wonderful!

[@lizroberts8579]

I have just finished making the chubby tote bag and l am thrilled with how it has turned out. Your explanation makes things so easy to understand for a beginner sewer as l am! Thank you, can't wait to get started on my next project. Happy sewing 🧵🧵🧵

[@sotakhandmade]

Wonderful!

[@zenith808]

I've just finished your tote bag by watching your tutorial. I'm so happy with it. Thanks again!

[@sotakhandmade]

Wonderful!

[@semsimama2191]

You are a very good teacher. You explain EVERYTHING perfectly. Thank you.

[@pemadoma8654]

I sew this chubby tote bag and it came out so nice. Thank you so such great videos.

[@sotakhandmade]

Great job!

[@IMOO1896]

Don’t know why I’ve never seen any of your projects. You have a very clear way of instructing without a lot of unnecessary talking. New sub

[@sotakhandmade]

that's quite a compliment, thank you :)

[@susanschmitz5871]

Love your videos and patterns I shop on Etsy! I learn best when you show me how to make the pattern, so these videos are the best! Would love more videos for your patterns!❤️❤️❤️

[@marlaback-ziegler6188]

You provide excellent directions and the camera angles are very helpful. Thank you!