ToteTutorialII

How to make tote bags from horse feed bags

[@knittingrace]

Was having trouble with thread breakage sewing the tote, until I changed my needle to size 100/16. Love this process/pattern. The totes went together quickly and turned out well. I've made 14 of them with this video's method. Thank you!!

[@heathercollins4432]

No instruction on strap placement? Also, the straps attachment would be stronger if it's placed under the top hem...just an observation..

[@brianaabrahamson2625]

I am going to try this, but those of you who are wondering about your sewing machines not stitching right get a Jean's needle they are tough and there is a setting for heavy duty sewing on mine check yours it might be why - mine is computerized and it stops if I don't have it on the right setting or needle - needles breaking usually means you need a tougher needle and a tougher fabric setting -

[@Laudesr4]

I love your video's!!! Is there anyway you can make one of these but with a liner? PLEASE?

[@beccazz211]

I'm curious if your seams are ok? My seams don't look good on the side of the bag that is supposed to be the outside. And the seams on the white plain side look good. Do you have any suggestions?

[@redsky7238]

Check your bobbin tension. You might need to look in your sewing machine's manual do see how to do this on your particular model machine (if you don't have a manual search for it online). If the tension is too tight or loose you will get the threads pulled to the opposite side instead of meeting in the center of your fabric. Test the stitches on some scrap materiel of the same type as you are sewing. Adjust as needed.

[@maryhernandez8818]

What kind of sewing machine do you use? I've tried two of mine and as mentioned below I'm having trouble. Needles breaking, bobbin making a mess etc. Please advise. Thank you!

[@carolynbates2925]

Use a needle designed for heavy weight fabric eg Denim.

[@bpereztab]

This is a neat idea. Tried it on my sewing machine, but it would not sew properly through the heavy plastic material and I was concerned that it might throw my machine's timing off :(

[@kathleengarrity1221]

I'm not seeing any responses to the comments but I'm going to ask anyway. I'm wondering how far down to make the triangle points? Do I assume it is just to the side of the bag where it would stand up straight? Is there a measurement/formula to use? I'm going to give it a try. Thanks to those who have commented on the issues people are having with needles :)