How to Sew an Easy Tote Bag that carries EVERYTHING! Tourist Tote Pattern by Sew Many Creations

Today we're going to make a really easy bag that will carry everything you need and then some!
The Tourist Tote Bag by Sew Many Creations is the very first bag I ever made and it is so easy. With just eight pieces and no hardware, this bag is just about as simple as it gets, but it looks super stylish and will fit literally EVERYTHING!
We'll go over how to fuse Decor Bond to the wrong side of your fabrics, tips for working with cork fabric and canvas and tons of tips on how to get a professional finish that will make all your friends think you bought it!
As always, any video featuring a pattern is meant to be a supplemental guide for all you visual learners out there. To get the cutting instructions and step-by-step diagrams, make sure you purchase a copy of Tourist Tote by Sew Many Creations. You're supporting the pattern designer and Quilt Addicts Anonymous, so we all can keep bringing you sewing inspiration!
Supplies:
Tourist Tote pattern by Sew Many Creations: shop.quiltaddi...
Get a kit to make the bag as shown in the video: shop.quiltaddi...
Quilting Cotton: shop.quiltaddi...
Decor Bond Heavy Fusible Pellon: shop.quiltaddi...
Jeans Sewing Needle: shop.quiltaddi...
Binding Clips: shop.quiltaddi...
Thread to match: shop.quiltaddi...
Frixion Gel Pen: shop.quiltaddi...
Check out more from Quilt Addicts Anonymous ...
Blog/tutorials: www.quiltaddictsanonymous.com
Online quilt shop: shop.quiltaddictsanonymous.com
Brick and mortar quilt shop: Quilt Addicts Anonymous, 3416 46th Ave., Suite 103, Rock Island, IL 61201
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Music: Coq Au Vin by Arthur Benson from Epidemic Sound

[@CurseTheDarkness]

Great video. Concise narration with clear camera work. So much better to have an edited video for learning rather than a 2 hour rambling mess that you can’t find the important parts to return to. All of the supplies neatly listed in the description too. It’s obvious you spent a lot of time editing and making this. Thank you.

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

I am glad you enjoyed it! And yes, we edit a lot to make sure we just show you what you need to know to make it yourself.

[@marticramer3526]

I agree I spent lot of my time looking for this pattern, and it cannot be found! Every single time I find a bag or a pattern that I absolutely love you can never find the measurements for the pattern. Very frustrating.

[@SparrowStockwell]

This is my favorite tote bag ever! It’s soooo sturdy and large-just what I want. Thank you.

[@kathyreichard7029]

Where is the pattern

[@tomib6186]

Love the bag AND the cat. Outtakes are always fun!

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Thanks on both! She is a sweet cat, but she ruins a lot of shots :)

[@sevenandthelittlestmew]

Quilt Addicts Anonymous, that is a cat’s job! 😂 Mine are always all up in my projects, or into my paper crafts, or even on the bathroom counter when I’m doing my makeup and hair. I keep a can of Lysol in practically every room (except the kitchen, where they do not get on the counters for some odd but much appreciated reason) so I can clean up after those little cat paws.

[@marciareed6873]

Since the pattern is no longer available, perhaps this video should be romoved. I wasted 45 minutes looking for the pattern.

[@lindadavis6193]

It’s on sew many creations website. Go look

[@marytornblom9291]

The pattern is at sew many creations

[@krisann9418]

Darn, me too!

[@Dominique-x2w]

just choose a different pattern. it’s your fault you looked for 45 mins, not reason a good tutorial should be taken down because you’re upset the pattern is unavailable & looked for a pattern for 45 minutes 😭

[@reecee2941]

Just got the pattern in the mail today and am on my second bag! Makes such a beautiful bag!

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Wow! You are amazing!

[@angel19093]

I loved this tutorial! It inspired me to try to make a bag. I would love to make this one. It is beautiful.

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

We will have the patterns restocked next week!

[@blissstitchsewing]

I love your technique! Looks so much easier than putting the outer bag in the lining, then flipping. Looks much more finished. Can’t wait to make it and add some pockets!

[@shulamussnug7120]

Quarter inch Basting tape really helped me keep the straps in place when I stitched them.

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

That's a great idea!

[@shulamussnug7120]

You are an excellent teacher! Wish I could get one of these kits.

[@rashaessam7935]

Thanks so helpful from Egypt 🇪🇬

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Glad it was helpful!

[@kathleenbarkan9888]

Excellent tutorial!!

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Thank you!

[@theredrover3217]

I'm not a beginner so really just looking for a starting point expecting to customize for my needs. Really appreciate explanation for your choices considering I plan to use materials I have on hand. Will mention I'm hearing tips less-experienced would do well to listen to. 😁 Although do wonder about some - would appreciate explanations from my perspective/experience with sewing heavy bulky materials and expected more abusive utility. Would have liked to see options/additions either mentioned at the end or better yet directed to a separate video with steps where and when to insert relative to this video. Sort of an advanced version of the same product. Also timestamps in the description based on my experience having run across how how-to's (for different things) even I 😉 LOL had to keep referring back to the video and frustration locating specific parts. But I understand the purpose of this video and would recommend less experienced go for the kit and appreciate your taking the time to provide a very well done (high value) bonus for free. 🍍 👏👏

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Thanks! Your suggestions are noted and appreciated!

[@chubbylittlebunny]

I love your tutorials and your bag is so cute 😍 I had to laugh when KZbin started auto playing the closed captions, though. It said “Welcome to Cult Addicts Anonymous” 😂

[@lydvincecruz8395]

Amazing. Thanks for sharing this video and also your great tips and very helpful tricks.I Very much appreciated 👍 .

[@ivoryroberts4426]

Love this and ladie .

[@jopiebacus8997]

thank you so much for sharing..bless your heart..

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Thanks!

[@pepavolpe]

I like your explanations.

[@jackiecaygle3878]

You really give very good instructions. Love the bag

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Thanks!

[@smathykins]

Love your cat!! 😂😂

[@SaraPurvey]

I love that fabric!

[@LizT207]

Very informative. Very well done tutorial

[@teamab7772]

Great tutorial. Thank you.

[@wendyhibbet7607]

This is great, thank you

[@gloriaarango8664]

Presiosa, me encanta. 💖💖💖🌹🌹🌹

[@maddypotter2393]

I just went over and ordered a yard of the canvas fabric, and I am hoping that I can get Alice centered in the middle of the bag I want to make. Can you please make sure that the yard I bought (I wanted more yardage but your shop indicated that you only had one yard left) so that I can center her just like you did. Great video! I didn't know you had a store or I would have been there several times before today! Thank you! Darleen (Maddy) Potter.

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Glad you know now! We will be reordering this print. So you’ll be able to get more if you need it.

[@sagedadel6193]

Pleas write the measurements in cm

[@shannonmuzinich7389]

Hi, is the interfacing medium or heavy? I plan on using a cotton woven canvas. Thank you

[@mariondunford2015]

Would love to make this bag but don’t see any supply list and she recommends cutting first but no pattern or instructions on what to cut

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Hi Marion! The pattern is at this link and has all the information you're looking for. shop.quiltaddictsanonymous.com/product/tourist-tote-bag/

[@joanechan441]

Having trouble locating some cork by the yard. Any suggestions? Love your tutorial and thanks.

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

We’ll reorder at some point in the new year

[@cherylvandeventer1752]

Can you please tell me how much cork fabric is needed for this tote? I purchased the pattern from your site but it is backordered so I don't know how much cork fabric to buy. I want to be ready to make this as soon as my pattern arrives. Thank you for the wonderful tutorial. I am excited to try this tote bag.

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

You need 1/4 yard of fabric (or cork) for the bottom of the bag.

[@cherylvandeventer1752]

@@QuiltAddictsAnonymous Thank you very much!

[@donnakimball3822]

Excellent video. I love the fabric.

[@stephanniemetz3610]

Sew fun!❤️

[@almaherrera1830]

Can you tell me the letter on the foot you are using?

[@mary-lynnmcconnell5656]

Adorable👍❤️🇨🇦

[@digitaldebbie]

Went to the website to purchase the pattern, but it is out of stock. Happy to pay for a PDF download. If not, when do you think they will have hard copies available for purchase?

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Unfortunately we are unable to sell this as a PDF. We will be getting it back in stock very soon! If you join the wait list (black button about half way down the page) shop.quiltaddictsanonymous.com/product/tourist-tote-bag/ You will receive an email when we have it back in stock!

[@kathyeubanks5524]

Stephanie, I couldn’t find either the cork fabric or the kit on your website. Do you still have them? Love the bag; great tutorial!

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

We are out of both right now. These sold out twice and we’ll get more if the fabric is reprinted.

[@kathyeubanks5524]

Thanks, love.

[@maryfrausto-raby3099]

Any way to make a hidden pocket with a zipper going around the bottom

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

There aren't instructions for that in this pattern but Sew Many Creations has done that in her Everly bag pattern. It could be adapted to this one!

[@chriskinard8838]

I am making 8 of these bags for a girls retreat. I want to add a slip pocket on the outside that I can monogram. Has anyone done this? If so, how did it work out for you?

[@arlenecarter1786]

I just ordered this pattern from you, How long until it ships? What brand of guide foot do you use?

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Your order should be shipping today! The foot is a Babylock foot that I purchased with my machine.

[@301coffee]

The core bond , does that come in thickness?

[@reesemorgan2259]

Thank you for telling the truth about sewing. Particularly the imperfections we must live with, unless we can afford to buy extravagant amounts of fabric. Fusible bond that might not bond / living with pattern matching challenges etc. The compromises we make. You wouldn't believe the "Simple for Beginners" tutorials I've seen where fundamental mistakes have been made whilst filming the clips - and small "My Bad!" type notations are buried in the description box where most of us won't see them. Every teacher makes mistakes and that's fine, but designing a tutorial for beginners and then royally confusing them is not acceptable to me. That can put you off sewing for life ( ha! I'm a beginner and have been in the wars, can you tell?)

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Congratulations on learning something new! I know well the frustration you are talking about. I always try to own up to my mistakes, and warn people of the common ones that I have seen people make as well. No one is perfect!

[@melissapalmer6174]

I would like to order this pattern but it the website says its put of stock. When will it be available?

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Please join the waitlist and you’ll be the first to know when it is back. We have a shipment on it way to us right now.

[@patrickfarley8036]

Thanks for the lesson. This was a very well done tutorial. Being a newby to sewing, I'm looking for "gift projects" to tackle and this looks like something I can do. Hopefully I'm right in thinking the end result makes it look like it's harder to make than it actually is! 😆 Just out of curiosity, I tend to use my right hand to guide the fabric on the feed side of the machine and my left hand on the finished side of the machine where you do the opposite and stick your arm through the throat of the machine and I'm wondering if this there is an advantage to this or is it just what is most comfortable for you? I know from experience in other areas being comfortable is a definite key to achieving a good result, but sometimes technique takes precedence over being comfortable which can lead to bad habits or injury. So I figure if I can develope good technique now, I'll save time trying to break bad habits later and get better results along the way. Thanks very much!

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

I tend to position my hands that way whenever the project I am working on gets heavy to help keep everything in line. This project has a lot of interfacing and the canvas and cork are more substantial than regular fabric, so that just gave me a little extra stability.

[@walsalmi84]

Can we have an option to buy the pattern in pdf?

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

we do not have the availability to offer this pattern as a PDF.

[@melissagay1240]

What's the foot called you used to help with the handle stitch placement????

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

It is a quarter inch foot with a guide

[@krycyafloresr6613]

Do you still have kits for this bag? I went to your website and couldn’t find it :(

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

We do not. We have not been able to get more of the Alice in wonderland fabric in. We do, however have pre-orders for the bag in Stephanie's upcoming fabric line! Be sure to check that out here shop.quiltaddictsanonymous.com/product/tourist-tote-bag-kit-pattern-feat-nocturne-in-teal-or-charcoal-available-for-pre-order/

[@mariarodrigues-jl5ib]

can you tell me the name of the foot you are using

[@swatirawal4023]

Superb...but what is size

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

All of the bag info can be found here shop.quiltaddictsanonymous.com/product/tourist-tote-bag/

[@buffy30]

Can anyone tell me what sewing machine she is using?

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Stephanie sews on two machines in her videos. She Both are Baby Lock. One is a Quilters Choice and one is Rachael. Neither are made any longer the closest machines would be the Soprano and the Jubilant. Soprano is great if you plan on quilting and want a few more bells and whistles. Jubilant is a great base line model machine. (We do not sell nor endorse machines, these are simply the machines we like to use)

[@kathyreichard7029]

Not available

[@veenapurohit9809]

What is the finished measurements?

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Hi Veena, The finished measurements are: 18x1/2" W Top x 12" W Bottom x 12" H x 7" D!

[@games-kc2vj]

يا ديده منه فيديوهات

[@kayfarm9609]

B

[@irisbrown2336]

C

[@marybrown5664]

I would like this pattern how do I get it?

[@maryfrausto-raby3099]

Pattern is expensive for one bag

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Thanks for your feedback. Most designers charge around the same amount for all their patterns.

[@gloriamorales6549]

How far apart are the straps? I cannot tell if it's 4 or 6 inches. Also, how big are the corners cut? Is it 4 inches?

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

All the measurements are available in the pattern. :) shop.quiltaddictsanonymous.com/product/tourist-tote-bag/

[@ann-mariejensen2623]

This is an excellent tutorial. You're straightforward and well spoken and don't repeat things! So many nice tips for a truly professional look. I also appreciate the discussion about why you chose to use canvas and cork.

[@TheSabinewalkden]

Hi there, Instead of trying with the iron to remove the Frixion pen markings in awkward spots, I always use a hairdryer. So much easier. Very good video with clear instructions.

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Great tip!

[@catherinelikando8446]

Thanks so much I tried making this with your guide and I used African fabric, I love it.

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Fabulous! Tag @quiltaddictsanonymous on Instagram so we can see it!

[@karenpresley7101]

I love the bag and seeing the cat and hearing the dog! LOL. Too cute. 😊💗

[@sonjawright518]

Karen Presley no sewing room is complete without a cat laying on your fabric

[@g_rafeio]

Great video, I made my first tote bag ever and it came out really nice. I cut the outer fabric 3 cm higher and the inner fabric 3 cm shorter and then I rolled the extra outer fabric inside before final stitching. It's more forgiving for beginners 😀.

[@michele.the.quilter6174]

Thank you for this tutorial. I usually finish the outer bag and the lining and then put them inside each other to sew them together. This is a great way to do it. Always enjoy your videos!

[@irenesmith7208]

Lovely tutorial, but please speak a little slower….I like to hear all of a word/s otherwise I lose space as my brain frantically finishes words ! Lots of useful tips….thank you.

[@BabyWallace]

My fav part.... The cat coming in view 🤪😂 love the video too... Ty for sharing... Made my whole day!!!!

[@kj3d812]

NOTE: This pattern is apparently NO LONGER AVAILABLE. Every link I clicked in the description returned 404 Not Found. and a search on the website for "tote" did not have this pattern.

[@jennifermiller1761]

I glue the straps down before I sew them. Makes it a lot easier.

[@marnac65]

The patterns indicates bottom fabric as cotton instead of cork. How much cork do I order as I know it is rarely sold by the yard.

[@joannepierce941]

Great video and bag well explained but could you give me the dimension of the the bag and handles. Thankyou kind regards Joanne in the UK😊

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Sorry - you have to get the pattern for that info.

[@robertstrzalka9210]

Quilt Addicts6 Anonymous

[@debbiekeener7375]

A very nice bag! Is the bag washable (with the cork bottom)?

[@donaldgatzke5295]

Loved the tutorial very easy to follow. Thank you

[@michelleterry5540]

Awesome I like the bag great job

[@MrKinglyon2010]

Too bad these links arnt working anymore. Sad face

[@ceceryan7531]

Dude I love the whole thing but what is up with the calipers on her face OMG get a wax

[@chriswalton1523]

Followed the links for pattern but got 404 page not found??

[@mandymateo]

Hello! Can I use Shapeflex instead of Decor Bond?

[@helenannelder8860]

Just what I was looking for. Thank you❤️

[@jojorey6886]

It looks like the cork doesn’t unravel like regular fabric. It seems like it has a similar quality to leather, therefore; do you have to make a seam to attach it to the bag or could you do a flat felled seam that would eliminate some bulk?

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

It doesn’t unravel so you can leave the raw edges out, but it folds over nicely and doesn’t really add bulk.

[@cutflower36]

nice bag, did you do any with a top closure?

[@gwynwellliver4489]

Awe, I love your calico cat! They just want to help. ;) I really need to make something out of my Alice fabric... Thanks for the tips about canvas and cork.

[@roseannrelloso2624]

What's the dimensions of the bag.

[@Nina-dv9ht]

Where can I purchase cork fabric?

[@jenniferd9038]

that fabric is adorable

[@BarbaraMeteyard]

Where can I order this material?

[@1tinac]

Great tutorial on a useful bag. Thanks for sharing.

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

It is super useful!

[@lingdynasty4606]

Love your tutorial. Did you say that fabric is a canvas? I love it

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Yes 😊. We currently have a few options in stock, if you go to shop.quiltaddictsanonymous.com and search for "canvas!"

[@rosasandoval2566]

I love this bag, even if I do not love Alice; I would love to see different kits for this bag

[@АндрійРоманович-й6т]

This is a very spacious diaper bag. It’s working well for cloth diapers. I can fit a days worth of cloth diapers plus clothing and essentials.

[@triciamcfarland8823]

“Goodness Gracious” lol I say that too😊. Loved the tote. The fabric is beautiful

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

It is one of my go to phrases! Didn’t even realize I said it. 😂

[@triciamcfarland8823]

Quilt Addicts Anonymous I think it was in your out-takes (I think that’s what it’s called)

[@stephaniemiller8229]

What brand is your IRON? 😊 I really like it. This bag is darling!

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

I have an Oliso.

[@sevenandthelittlestmew]

It’s an Oliso. I love mine - you can leave it with the sole plate down and it has sensors for when you put it down that trigger the these little “stilts” so the iron is lifted above your pressing table. When you pick up the handle, the sensors recognize the motion of your hand, and release the stilts so you can iron. It’s pretty clever, but the sensors are, like all electronics, prone to breaking. Also, I’m not sure if they have models with Teflon soles. Mine has a stainless sole, and I clean it after every project. Especially if I’m using any kind of interfacing or fusible.

[@melbapallay7496]

I would love to see the measurements . Lovely bag .

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

Thank you! The measurements are available in the pattern. We don't show them so we can support the designer and her hard work creating these fabulous patterns.

[@jekac1390]

Is there a link for her pattern I couldn't find website

[@michelleherman5298]

Congratulations! On reaching that big number!

[@gwendolynbeatty2058]

I'm still nervous to use the cork......

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

It's wonderful to work with! If you have enough you can always cut off some small scraps just to get a feel for it. You can do it!

[@lidiamacedo5061]

Great tutorial!! Thank you!

[@eileenfox7813]

What is the measurement to cut the corners?

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

All the measurements are included in the pattern.

[@dboutine]

A very nice, clear and straightforward tutorial. Thank you so much.

[@masakololaisa325]

love your tutorial,its clear and understandable,will try it out

[@mamas_quilts3573]

Thank you!

[@R.Oates7902]

Cute fabric. It looks vintage

[@jamiemcdaniel8155]

Great job 👏 👍

[@amc5936]

can this be thrown in the wash?

[@QuiltAddictsAnonymous]

As long as the materials you make it with are washable, yes, it can be.