How to sew a Crossbody Messenger Tote Bag

Hey y'all and welcome back to Sewspire!
This week we are making messenger style tote bags which can be worn cross body with ease. I especially appreciate the wide padded strap on this style as it is so comfy!
For the exterior of my bag, I selected a simple grey Premier Print print and then went a little crazy on the interior and selected a really fun Micheal Miller animal print that makes me smile every time I open my bag.
For this project you will need to cut 6 panels which measure 12" tall by 16" wide. Three of these panels should be cut from a thicker twill fabric. You will also be cutting the handle from the thicker twill and it will measure 8" wide by 54" in length.
For your project planning purposes: you will need to set aside a half yard of 54" twill fabric and three quarter yard of cotton quilt weight fabric + a half a yard of quilt batting.
The bag comes together in a cinch and should take you less than an hour to make. I'd love to see photos of your finished projects and invite you to post pictures on the Sewspire Facebook and Instagram pages using @sewspire and #sewspire
I hope you enjoy the project and will share the blog and this channel with your creative friends! Until next week, sew happy and be inspired my beautiful friends!
XO!
Andrea

[@crochetwithnikki3744]

Perfect video, love you doing it as teaching, no back ground noise, and clear instructions. Thank you!

[@Sewspire]

Glad it was helpful!

[@hannahwallaceable]

This video was great, you're a fantastic teacher. My 11 year old was able to easily make her first bag and is working on a second. Way to inspire!

[@Sewspire]

Awesome!

[@quinlan6968]

I love that you show us every step! Please keep doing what you're doing it really helps us visual learners

[@rosefox6557]

A few days ago, my daughter said she would like a messenger bag. I was searching the tutorial videos and stumbled across yours. Thank you so much for making it so easy to follow!! I'm looking forward to checking out your other videos!

[@shirleyveale1104]

Love this lesson. Watched last night, completed by end of day. Thanks to you, I doubt I will ever buy another handbag. This is my new passion, give them to my friends in their favourite colours. Cheers Shirl, Geelong Australia. 👍🏻🌹👍🏻

[@Sewspire]

Aw, you are hooked! That's exactly what happened to me...12 years ago and I haven't stopped making bag since. Welcome to the world of bag making!

[@allytheninja]

I just made the most AMAZING Adventure Time themed messenger bag using this tutorial and I couldn't be happier! Thank you for such an awesome, beginner-friendly tutorial!

[@Sewspire]

So fun!!!

[@millynanteza4801]

I love the simplicity in which you explain the procedure cause even us people who are not used to speaking english can follow. Thank you so much.

[@Sewspire]

Glad it was helpful!

[@sheiladuke3592]

My son came home for christmas, as soon as he crossed the doorstep asked me to make a messenger bag for a friend! Found this tutorial and made from my stash in an afternoon. Fabulous, only difference, I made an adjustable strap as I didn't know how tall the friend was and how long they like a bag. Wonderful, clear instructions.

[@Staypositive25]

Awesome video, and it was xtra short! Can't wait to get started 💞

[@penelopenorris4417]

Thank you for your calm and clear instructions. My one and only attempt at making a bag was in a large class that went too fast and no questions were allowed. I gave up. I am now headed to my "stash" to find the fabric to make this delightful bag. I can hardly wait. Again, thank you. You are a very good teacher.

[@shannonmccann183]

I am a newer sewer and my passion is to make bags and maybe other items as well. Your instructions are easy to follow and you take you time. For a beginner this is amazing and makes me feel like I can do it.

[@gladtidings4all]

I also love your videos because it doesn’t have that annoying loud distracting music and I prefer to hear your voice describing each step.

[@Sewspire]

Thank you!

[@friendshipwithallah7687]

Thanks mam u r sweet

[@DiegoCastro-ky4gl]

I agree. 😊

[@1craftygranny]

@@DiegoCastro-ky4gl I agree too, the music is not necessary and is very distracting, this coming from someone with a very strong music background and who loves music! Music has it's place on stage, in the opera house, in an orchestra hall but not in tutorials!!!

[@DiegoCastro-ky4gl]

@@1craftygranny you're absolutely right!!!

[@lindagiddes4551]

I made this bag in a half hour and I added a zipper to my lining and snap closure because that Velcro is tough to get apart. Thank you for taking it slow so everyone can understand the steps

[@fmmineo]

You did such a nice demo of this project - clear instructions - you enjoy what you're doing! A pleasure to watch. Thanks!!

[@tahishawilliams9853]

I just sat and watched this video and I love the way you go step by step slowly. I am going to make a bag for my brother and i am going to make it out of jean material. Thank you for this video. It was the inspiration that i needed. Please keep the videos coming.

[@sewingroom8625]

I started on a messenger bag last year, but got stuck and put it aside, I am sew glad that I found u and now I can finished my bag, u r great, thank u.

[@maryanncolletti5395]

I love your videos! Your instructions are very clear and you don't go too fast to where I have to rewind over and over again to understand the instruction. I have made two of these bags so far--;love them!

[@Sewspire]

That is so fabulous! I love to hear maker success stories! Thank you for sharing.

[@sueloader2817]

Thanks so much, all clearly explained and including some handy tips as well. Just waiting for my fabric to arrive in the post so I can get started! Hoping to find some more of your tutorials.

[@nancydegeorge475]

Hi there. Just finished my second bag! This one lined with beautiful peacock inspired fabric with a gold fleck. Pockets inside and two on the back of the bag for tickets, notes, tissues etc. I also put a one inch band of the lining fabric around the outside of the flap to enhance the dark blue denim outer fabric. Cross body adjustable strap again. Everyone seems to want them these days :-) I really do love this bag. You can so easily make it to your personal needs. Thanks again for this tutorial 👍💜

[@Sewspire]

That sounds amazing Nancy! So glad you are enjoying the design. XO, Andrea

[@kimsiehl9058]

I was thinking the same thing about adding pockets! I want to also add exterior side pocket on the small edge for a water bottle and a zipper pocket on the inside!

[@lindaboland198]

Love it. Love the way she teaches with her soft calm voice.

[@jodiross5000]

Hi Andrea, I haven’t sewn anything in more than 20 years (high school!). Thanks so much for taking the time to make these videos - your instructions are amazing! I’m now sewing and making some really fun stuff!! Thank you!! ❣️

[@Sewspire]

Welcome to Sewspire Jodi! I am so happy you have been reunited with your long lost passion :) XO, Andrea

[@katherts]

Thank you! Been looking for an easy pattern to make with my granddaughter as a one day project. This is perfect!

[@Sewspire]

You are so welcome!

[@pjacksreads536]

Beautiful! Thank you for going slow and keeping it simple. I can follow your instructions easily. I will make a couple of these as gifts.

[@cazkiwinz4300]

Ok, I'm so excited! Found and watched this video last night, and I'm cutting my fabric... And diving in on this project today, right now.... Wish me luck! 🤗🤗🤗💗💗💗

[@Sewspire]

Happy sewing!!!

[@Elle-fp5uy]

"I WISH YOU ALL THE LUCK...I'M GONNA GIVE IT A WHIRL TOO!."

[@cazkiwinz4300]

Lourd - Mine came out so good (I did change it slightly and sewed the lining, flap and exterior together so it was all on the inside. Only problem now is my machine doesn't like the final top stitching so I can't quite finish it yet 😁 but was heaps of fun to make!

[@melanieliston4034]

The easiest video I've seen on messenger bags. I love how you patiently explained everything. I give it 10 thumbs up. Thank you 😊💕👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽

[@Sewspire]

Glad it was helpful! Really appreciate the ten thumbs up too! You rock!

[@gladtidings4all]

I really love your video tutorials nice and slow for us newbie beginner sewers. Thanks!

[@roseamador2926]

You have a gift for teaching! Loved your tutorial. I was able to make my daughter a messenger bag for her halloween costume. I have very little sewing experience but your tutorial made it so easy. Thank you!

[@CYNWORLD]

Beautiful bag. I also like hearing your calming voice explain it.

[@moltonuniverse74]

Hello there..this is gerald from Holland and I want to thank you for givin me the inspiration for makin my first bag. Realy learned a lot. Very nice explained.In the meanwhile made my second bag..based on this one and added my own new elements on it....it realy gives a great feeling to create and put on your own handmade bag on the shoulder... :-D

[@lisapike383]

Thank you so much. I am dyslexic and have trouble following instructions. You made it very easy. You are amazing.

[@enaliafitzworme4779]

You are simply the BEST...thanks for sharing.

[@Sewspire]

Thank you!

[@margaretscaife4646]

Sewspire you have inspired me. Just love your easy to make messenger bag. Think I might put a zip pocket in my lining and a different fastener, but the overall bag you made looks terrific. Thank you. Can't wait for your next project.

[@Sewspire]

Love the idea of an interior zippered pocket! There is a lot of versatility in the flap to accommodate many different closure options. What kind of closure do you have in mind? I hope you will share a picture of your finished bag with our creative community on the Sewspire Facebook Page or Instagram using #sewspire @sewspire ! Happy sewing! Andrea

[@jennywalker9572]

Thank you for showing me how to attach the bag flap so clearly. I have been in a mental loop with this for a day or two now as I am creating my own backpack pattern, but you made it really easy.

[@connstanceredd352]

I HAVE REALLY ENJOYED WATCHING YOUR VIDEOS. I MADE ONE OF YOUR CLUTCHES THIS MORNING.

[@Sewspire]

Welcome to Sewspire! I am so glad you are enjoying the tutorials! You are welcome to share photos of your finished projects on the Sewspire Facebook page. XO, Andrea

[@1craftygranny]

Hey, of all the tutorials I've seen on the messenger tote bags yours is the only one I really like! The only change I'm going to make is adding inside pockets and maybe an outside pocket to the back panel. I have seen one made from cargo pants I like but unfortunately my late husband only wore the cargo shorts so I'm going to make mini cargo totes following your pattern! Thanks so much for sharing your pattern. I will continue to follow you.

[@Sewspire]

That sounds really neat Elaine! Let us know how it turns out! ❤

[@1craftygranny]

@@Sewspire I will!

[@chaundasumara]

Thank you for providing the clearest and simplest version on how to make a messenger bag. You rock

[@Sewspire]

Thank you Chaunda!

[@susanf2689]

Absolutely appreciate you sharing this video. You make this an easy and enjoyable project! Your instructions and demonstration are “sew” easy to follow ;) Your pleasant voice helps make everything go smoothly! I’ve already make 2 bags for loved ones and I’m finishing mine up now. Thanks again & May God Bless!

[@tamikiabrodeur965]

I just love this bag. Thank you for taking the time to make this and showing me how to sew it. Thank you

[@marvam1414]

I really love the way you explain each of your tutorials thank you so much

[@flynnmorrow6945]

This looks very simple and clear -- thank you!

[@Sewspire]

You are welcome!

[@fabiola5762]

Very nice. Tutorial was simple, easy and thorough! Loved your fabric! Thank you very much!

[@lyndadennis6778]

you make it seem so easy to make the bag. i will be having a go myself. Thank you.

[@tammyclayton706]

This is one of the best videos I have watched! You were so easy to listen to and your instructions are awesome. Now I will just go back and write down the supply list. Thank you! I have now subscribed to you channel.

[@Sewspire]

Thank you Tammy! In the newer videos I have the supply list in the description. This was one of my first and I was still learning. Glad you like it and have subscribed! We are happy to have you!

[@nikkik4603]

Love this! I just made this bag today using a corduroy and it turned out lovely! Thank you for doing this tutorial, I have not been able to understand patterns, I’m a visual learner and I was able to easily follow you.

[@Sewspire]

I am so happy you had success with this tutorial and love working with corduroy!

[@eileenfb1948]

Loved that video, like your calm voice. Thank you. Oh, yes, and I loved the bag.

[@dinaparikh8711]

eileenfb1948

[@suleirymatos3825]

what a great video thanks!!! you should have millions of followers you are such a great teacher!

[@Bilqisfarooq]

I luvd ur tutorial ,followed ur video and made my first messenger back .Thank u and God bless .

[@christinahowe7329]

Great demo video beautifully spoken, with soft accent. Thanks

[@Sewspire]

Glad you liked it!

[@joanbramsen9936]

I made and love this bag. I added outside pocket and one on the inside before sewing the sides together. Great instructions..thanks

[@Sewspire]

That's awesome Joan! Thank you for sharing!

[@IMOO1896]

Terrific tutorial. You do such detailed work in such an easy way.

[@Sewspire]

Thank you!

[@denelljacobus3324]

Thank you for this incredibly easy to follow instructions. You’ve made this task very easy for me to achieve.

[@TuckersTales00]

I love making all kinds of bags and this video is just awesome! You make it look so easy :) Thanks for the great simple instructions and easy to follow tutorial!

[@wandasmart8941]

Thank you for this lovely messenger bag tutorial. I'm going to make one for my granddaughter. Since I love pockets, I'm going to add pockets to the interior.

[@Sewspire]

Excellent idea Wanda! I am certain your granddaughter will love it!

[@wandasmart8941]

Now, I'd like to learn how to use hardware to make an adjustable strap. Do you have a tutorial for that?

[@Sewspire]

Yes, check out the first few minutes of this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hnu4f5qmm76pqKM

[@wandasmart8941]

Thank you so much. . . that will be great for my grandson!

[@Yourstruly_ruby]

Omg thank you for this video it's so easy to follow and I appreciate how much time was put into this

[@Sewspire]

Thank you! I am happy the tutorial is serving its purpose well. XO, Andrea

[@leanneaunger62]

This is a fantastic tutorial. I have made a few now using this tutorial and it is so easy to follow these are also fantastic gifts for people too

[@charirichards1]

This video is awesome!! It was so easy to follow and understand. I can't wait to try making this bag. Thank you for this great video.

[@redroofretriever]

I am very late to the party, but I am glad I found this tutorial. Thank you for being so thorough for us beginners. I'm your newest subscriber. sewing is fun, even for a 54 y/o guy like me. My first project is complete, and I'm starting my next, sort of a handbag, for decoys - ( : it's a guy thing. I did my material layout different than yours, so I'll live with it this time, but I especially like the way you squared the corners after sewing the sides... Neat stuff, thanks for posting.

[@Sewspire]

Welcome to Sewspire! So glad to have you with us and please do feel free to share photos of your finished projects on the Sewspire community Facebook page and Instagram page. Happy sewing! Andrea

[@aedrmac2181]

I'm going to do this. You make it look so easy! Thank you!

[@Sewspire]

You can do it!

[@83sharmaa]

Along with your tutorial I love the way you speak so calmly... Simple and easy steps for basic bag

[@vikashkhrwar7366]

.

[@leonoragabilete3932]

i would like to say THANK YOU the very nice and easy to follow your instruction. i wish you've get many followers. May God bless you and your love ones.

[@Sewspire]

God Bless you and your loved ones as well and thank you for your kind words!

[@dollybethchacon-valverde7690]

Excellent job. Excellent video. Thank you very much.

[@angelicaesdaile-watts3037]

You don't have any idea how much you helped!!!!

[@gsr7772]

Great bag and so easy and fast to make. Your tutorials are wonderful!!!

[@Sewspire]

Thank you!

[@Allindriss]

Thank you so so much for this tutorial, I am a complete begginer in sewing (I am just sewing face masks during this covid-19 outbreak) and I wanted to sew a bag for myself. I couldn't find any patterns or tutorials, that I understood and was really sad but then I stumbled upon your video and I made absolutely beautiful bag and I am so proud of it. So thank you so much!

[@Sewspire]

Thank you Ivana! You have brought a lot of joy to me! I am so happy you found success with this tutorial. Blessings, Andrea

[@Manu52498]

Such a perfection.... feeling great after watching this video. You taught me alot in this single video... Mainly sewing manners. Thank you so much. Glad to see your smiling face after completion of the perfect desired bag. 👍👍👍👌💞💓💓💞👌👍👍👍

[@judyglasson9886]

This is such an amazing video on how to make and put a bag together!! I love, love, love it! It seems so easy to follow with each step, that I can't wait to try to make my own bag....will let you know how it turns out. Thank you so, so much.

[@Sewspire]

Welcome to Sewspire Judy! I am excited for you to make your own messenger bag and shall be looking forward to hearing how it turns out. XO, Andrea

[@jdbus90]

thank you Andrea for this tutorial. I love this bag. I made me 1 and can wait to show it off. I posted it on Pinterest. You make it look so easy and explain so well.

[@Sewspire]

Thank you for sharing on Pinterest! I am so happy you are enjoying the tutorials and shall be looking forward to seeing more of your pretty creations!

[@michelelablue9066]

My next project! Thank you for the clear instructions

[@lynnnicolee4126]

Made me one as I followed along❤ ty you your tutorial was great

[@bparkinpvt]

Thank you for your video, you are so easy to follow. I am now going to have a go at making the bag

[@catherinehutchins6550]

That was a nice and easy to follow tutorial. Thanks so much.

[@rajeshwarikn3728]

Wow such an easy demo for this lovely bag,thank you!

[@Sewspire]

You’re welcome 😊

[@alfredstclair192]

Your voice is so calming.. You make this all so easy thank you kindly.. :)

[@Stefka365]

Very nice bag and easy to make ☺. Thank you! ☺

[@renischuster1740]

This Bag is so beautiful. 👍💞👍💞👍

[@angelicaesdaile-watts3037]

Had to create these for a textile assignment and the teacher did not explain anything!!!!! You've helped me so much thank you

[@Sewspire]

So happy you found the tutorial helpful! If you can, we'd love to see pictures of your finished bags! You can post those direct to the @sewspire Facebook page or tag #sewspire on Instagram. XO, Andrea

[@merabalaji6665]

Great love the colour nd yr teaching.good yr room is very nice

[@almaingraham7863]

Thank you so much, it was so understanding for me the way you sew the bag , I want to make one for myself. You did a beautiful job.

[@lailatulkhomsiyah8715]

I like it very much....nice bag

[@kathleensoga1982]

Thank you! I'm a beginner and will be making this today! Simple and clear instructions.

[@SB-km5yp]

Lovely bag and great tutorial as always Andrea.

[@blancaluna-ramirez5673]

Thanks! I was looking for something easy and I found your video. Very well explained. Now I'm a new follower. Greetings from Miami. ❤

[@Sewspire]

Welcome to Sewspire! We are so happy to have you join us on this creative adventure!

[@TimKalmet]

Aww thank you so much. This is a nice tutorial, at the right pace. So easy to follow. Wonderful.

[@NataschaYT]

Such calm an clear instructions. You've got yourself a subscriber!

[@Sewspire]

Welcome to Sewspire!

[@heatherharmon2679]

This is a simple, easy to follow tutorial!! Thank you!

[@angielopez5820]

Love your projects and patience to explain. Your voice is relaxing. Thanks!! Are you going to make a New version with zippers in the back side and inside? That Will be awesome💕😘 please

[@Sewspire]

Oh that sounds fun!!!!

[@karenhickey3377]

I would like to see one like this with an outside zipper pocket as well.

[@maureenpeak5541]

Wonderful tutorial, thanks for sharing your knowledge.

[@theresecrouch2924]

wow, that was awesome, can't wait to try it. ..thankyou for sharing

[@fabulousmarilyn3.088]

Very nice. I just think you are a blessing. And you can sew girl. Thanks a bunch

[@Sewspire]

Thank you Marilyn! You are a blessing as well!

[@mecraftytoo]

Fabulous tutorial,really easy to follow, I look onward to making this.

[@sweetu143fatty4]

Wow.... It's amazing. It's so easy also. Tq fr sharing the video.

[@nancydegeorge475]

Hello there. I'm making the bag now. I love the look of it and it's been going well. The only thing I changed is the 'hook and loop' tape. I put a metallic clip there instead. I used heavy denim and lined it with home created tie dyed calico. Thank you for your excellent tutorial 💜

[@Sewspire]

That sounds really nice Nancy!

[@nancydegeorge475]

Sewspire I really like the finished bag thank you 💜

[@agnescera8563]

I love it am so making it today,so easy and looks fun to carry....

[@sallynahal2251]

Very nice. I like it

[@ramonaazul3419]

Thank you for making this so easy.

[@abriareyes784]

Just made this bag. Thanks so much for this amazing tutorial 💕

[@Sewspire]

You are welcome! I am so happy the tutorial was enjoyed! Thank you for sharing!

[@Natasha_dor]

you are just the sweetest! So calming and cute :)

[@brittanym188]

Thanks for the video. Super cute !

[@Sewspire]

My pleasure!

[@skullyjpg6957]

Just subbed to your awesome channel you are so hard working and I loved the way you explained everything so easily. Keep up the good work!

[@geraldinelay4714]

Great video, thank you. Very clear instructions and each step explained really well. Can't wait to have a go!