The Perfect Tote Bag Tutorial! - Learn to Sew Series

[@reganc9759]

I have been using these tutorials for months. And just became aware that this sweet precious woman passed. She is such a light and so joyful. I am broken for her family. Thankful to have these tutorials in her memory.

[@surfinonsexwax]

What she died??

[@lizaddison-duenas4351]

Again. I am so glad her content is staying up. Just needed a quick tote and Melanie to the rescue. She keeps blessing us even though she is quilting with angels.!!

[@TheMaggiemay77]

I think of Melanie very often! 💌💌

[@NatalieBass209]

Yes her videos are some of the best I’ve found. Always so clear, well recorded and the results are awesome. I hope she is resting in peace 💜

[@roseanncontello8253]

Agree! I love all her crochet videos too. 😇

[@peggyflowers6755]

I still watch Melanie's videos. I was so sad when she passed.

[@craftnm7225]

I agree, too! She was, and still is, a blessing to us.

[@charlenekittel2289]

I continue to watch Melanie sew! So very thankful for her life in helping others craft. Thank you to Melanie's family for keeping her content on youtube!

[@lindabarnes7802]

I love this tote tutorial. It is awesome. I was so excited to have found Melanie. I am sad that she has passed away. Thank you so much for keeping her videos on utube. I am going to check out her learning to crochet videos. I think she had the best clear instructions. My prayers are with her family and friends.

[@AussieMumVLOGS]

Oh my goodness that is so sad, was she unwell?

[@pamdavis1613]

I just read about her cancer. Thank you so much for keeping her videos up on utube! I just started quilting again after a long hiatus and it was such a God thing I saw her video today on how to make a tote with canvas and French seams. I know you miss her!

[@staciewaddell486]

I know you are gone, but you continue to teach, inspire, and make me smile. You are so special special. ❤️

[@annav4166]

RIP Melanie, thanks for the tutorials they were very helpful, I learned a lot from you and miss your videos. Love and prayers to your husband and children, my heart goes out to them 🙏🏻

[@JaeMarie2008]

This video was on my feed, and I thought to myself how much I enjoyed watching her videos and all she taught us through her tutorials! I have learned a lot from Melanie & she was a blessing to have here! I'm so happy her videos are still on KZbin! My thoughts and prayers are with the family.❤

[@gidget101]

Oh Dear! I just loved this - I went to your blog for more and found that you went to heaven six months ago 💙 😔 I'm making this tote today in your honor to give to my 92 year old neighbor to carry his mail. God bless you and your lovely children and God be with your husband of 16 years! If we had met we certainly would have become friends 🙂

[@daniellesimone7769]

I just read Melanie's obituary. So young, so sad. This tote bag is the easiest tutorial I have seen. And she was perfect in the speed and content with which she shared her process. Indeed; may you sew with Angels, Melanie. We miss you and your gift of teaching. Danielle Simone

[@angelaf5040]

Thank you for leaving our beautiful Melanie up so we can continue to see her and learn from her. You're missed so much! I still cry when I first watch any of your videos.

[@leahcfinn]

My grandpa passed away last year. I made a tote and used one of his old shirts for the interior pockets. 💗

[@sandeepdOsanjh453]

Beautiful idea!! ♥️

[@karenbarella3116]

👌

[@carmennunez7365]

Ok

[@rubyhesketh8876]

That’s so lovely 🥺💗

[@editorhallbrook6466]

Damn that was creative and made me cry a little but I LOVE it!

[@MaxLeoMolly]

What an amazing talent and beautiful soul. She singlehandedly led me back to creating things of both beauty and function. This project is so perfectly constructed with French seams, etc. it can be reversible as well. I use a neutral canvas on one side, and a lovely print for the lining. When you turn it inside out, the pocket ends up on the outside, but that's just fine. I get so many comments and many requests for gifting.

[@catkoe9321]

This is the BEST and EASIEST method for adding a lining to a tote bag I’ve ever seen!! Miss you Melanie 💝

[@lisagiarratana7660]

She is definitely missed. I have a hard time watching….my eyes keep welling up with tears 😢

[@lynnthorley7876]

We are all so blessed to of had a teacher with so much talent. Always smiling which passes on to the student. I am so grateful that you Melanie shared so many videos about all different subjects. Wish to thank family members for keeping videos up.

[@Candis-Rivkah54]

When i first came accross Melanie , i knew how special she was , her goodness was a shining example to so many . Her legacy is lasting . I hope to be as brave as she was facing down trials of all kinds. Here i am today enjoying her tutorial , and remembering this lovely soul.💜

[@20sabasayed]

I keep coming to this design whenever I have to make one. This time I'm making as a party favour for my daughter's birthday. Thank you so much Melanie, know that you are still very much here and continuing to help so many women through your tutorials.

[@deborahcrowder1550]

I love Melanie's videos...thank you for keeping them available for us to watch. I was very touched by Melanie's funeral and the video you and she made together of her life. Thank you for sharing with us.

[@amerrylifejen]

Sweet Melanie I got my fist sewing machine and came here to watch your tote bag video 😭💕 I think of you often although we never met you are so missed by many ❤

[@luckyleoliz]

still one of my favourite tote bag tutorials. I will admit i do come back to watch her videos just see her smiling face and hear her calming voice.

[@Luluflowers111]

I miss you! I was so proud when I made this tote. It was one of my first bags. Love to you always and to your family. You made a difference in my life. xoxoxo

[@rosejohn9131]

Melanie Ham would ALWAYS be loved for all her talent and all that she's taught me.🙏❤

[@catherined497]

I love watching Melanie’s video. Such a gentle teacher. She is greatly missed by my family. ❤

[@margaretleavitt6992]

I miss knowing you are out here helping us to make lovely items! Your voice was so lovely and I learned so much from you. You are missed

[@anitawilliams7646]

Oh my goodness! Girl-you are the BOMB!!!!!First of all- the bag is amazing. It is beautiful- and so professional. But the real joy comes from watching a real teacher be able to effectively get people to understand the concept. You did an outstanding job of demonstrating how to make this bag. Your filming was perfect. The close-ups were so well-done. I am so delighted. I feel confident that I will be able to make this bag. There are lots of good sewers on KZbin-but not all of them are good teachers. Thank you sooooooooo much!

[@aurazefanya]

OMGHEE i know I'm late to this video, but TYSM for this tutorial. This tutorial is literally A LIFE SAVER!! I'm making a bag at school and because of this tutorial it came really GREATT, especially for a beginner like me who never sewed before. WOULD TOTALLY RECOMMEND THIS TO A FRIEND!! 💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗

[@Jen-CelticWarrior]

This is my absolute favorite tote bag pattern to sew. These make great gifts, especially when filled with other sewing gifts! Miss you, Melanie.💕💜

[@christines1924]

The BEST tutorial! I absolutely love the beauty and simplicity of French seams.

[@rosapaquette7391]

Thanks for such great instructions. I am a new beginner. So easy to follow. I'm a fan.!

[@JemimaCassidy]

here's another version to creating a customised tote bag :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/r53HnoelZ9RlhK8

[@rachelanderson3147]

Made my first tote ever. So fun and will use it for my piano books. God be with all of your family as you grieve Melanie. She is still helping people and making a difference with her videos and her story. ❣️

[@joanneginever1890]

I made this yesterday! Came out awesome, great design you've created! I put a large pocket low on the front, with stitching down the middle to divide. For the boxed corners I measured in 2 5/8", which I think was perfect. This is a great simple project. Done on my 1960s vintage Singer 217, which sews like a dream. In fact the main reason I decided to make this bag, was an excuse to take out this beautiful old machine and put it to use! 😊

[@lizaddison-duenas4351]

I am back again. Made 12 for a charity to sell for a fundraiser last year. Asked my cat sanctuary in my winter home what she wanted. She said tote bags to sell. Soo I am making this time another 12 with the front a solid canvas with an embroidered cat design or saying and the back the canvas. Thank you thank you for keeping Melanie's tutorials up for my senior mind to refer to.

[@morecraftsplease7089]

Really great video. I like your method of doing the lining. Doing lining always look a bit daunting but you made look so easy, even the way you added the straps

[@pattybelanger9186]

After years of not sewing, I finally started again and made 3 of these within a couple of hours. So easy and love them!

[@aracelimaldonado9416]

Hola

[@dimitridasilva]

“Because it’s French it sounds fancy” couldn’t be more true

[@andreahoulihan8453]

I have only just discovered this channel and then discovered Melanie's story. What a beautiful soul ❤

[@danahserrano-baez9643]

This really is the best tutorial. It’s super easy and there’s no excessive chatting or difficult details for a newbie. My daughter asked me for a tote bag and now I feel confident enough to do this!

[@sandrajaensson1158]

Just saw your video and learned from the comments that you passed... It just went straight into my heart and now I'm crying here. So sad... sending warm hugs to your family.

[@teminus1]

Not gonna lie, I was very intimidated when I first watched through this but all things considered, this is much more doable for me compared to other patterns and the end result seems so worth it!! I just found your channel and I just wanted to say thank you for everything. You will live on through these tutorials and the precious items people create using them. I'm planning on making bags for my friends and I'm gonna do it Melanie style, with extra love and care that will last for an eternity! Miss you Melanie and thank ou for everything

[@teminus1]

UPDATE! I did it!!! :D I made my first tote bag using your tutorial with minor adjustments because of how I wanted to pattern to face. Because of these adjustments I was even able to make my straps longer and more fit for the person I was making it for! You were right! the french seam wasn't tricky at all! for my first time making it, along with the straps, it took me about 2-3 hours but if you have a rotary blade I'm sure it'll be even faster! I loved this pattern so much because for the first time I had basically zero scraps and the ones I do have I plan on using to make coasters :) Thank you again Melanie!! We miss you!

[@karennick6748]

Great video. Thank you for sharing. Love how Melanie shows us that not all cuts are perfect. I’m always trimming my fabric

[@kembakirton3176]

So happy 😊 that you took the time to share your expertise with us while on this earth. Thank You! Rip.

[@SnotGirrrl]

I love this tutorial and am in the process of making my first bag! The only thing I would remind people of is, make sure when u attach the straps, that the loop faces the 'right way' when it's in its final place ^_^ Thank you so much for making all this so clear!!

[@GladysOdote]

I must agree with all the comments that this tote tutorial is easy to follow and turns out great. Thanks so much!

[@thehayleygrace]

This tutorial just guided me through my first ever sewing project! Melanie is an amazing teacher and she helped me create something I absolutely love. She is helping people enjoy sewing even after she has passed

[@destresswithyoga]

I love, love this!!!! I’m a beginner sewer and actually made this with success!!!!!!! Thank you for sharing your talent!!!

[@JemimaCassidy]

here's another version to creating a customised tote bag :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/r53HnoelZ9RlhK8

[@newwaytextileco.limited9447]

Thank Melanie, and you are kindness, and you have big love for this world. Have a great day!

[@ariannam.plascencia1253]

you are my favorite person to watch! i love how you explain everything and i turn to your channel when i am stuck or need insparation

[@JemimaCassidy]

here's another version to creating a customised tote bag :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/r53HnoelZ9RlhK8

[@michelesmith9750]

I was looking for a bag to make for my granddaughter I’ve sold since I was 11 and I’m now 75 every tutorial that I found was more confusing than the next not making sense to me and not giving accurate fabric requirements. This is the best tutorial ever I so enjoyed it and learned a lot from the way that you teach. Thank you!

[@sheilabrowning2841]

Thank you so much for such an easy tote pattern. Your tutorial is easy to follow along! It was so easy that I made 2.

[@madelame_]

i was always so jealous of your tools, from your iron and ironing board to your sewing machine , to your quality fabric. thank you for giving us so much content to learn💜

[@terinarathbun1202]

Thank you! A friend just helped me figure out my sewing machine. It was gifted to me by my husband's grandma, but I never knew how to use it. It got all jammed up and has sat in my closet for years until recently. Now there are so many things I want to make (if only I could get my hands on fabric)! This is perfect though, because I was just thinking yesterday that I needed a bigger tote bag with pockets for my current crochet project 😊

[@MelanieHam]

sounds like fun!

[@queenslanddiva]

I made one of these today - I am no sewer, by any means. Your 45 minutes took me about 3 hrs BUT I did it and it turned out better than I expected. I did twist one of the handles which was a bummer, but I am so happy with it. I used a sheet I bought from the op shop, just for practice but I will be doing more - great Christmas presents. Thank you.

[@west3381]

I just used this tutorial to make my first tote bag! Thank you, I'm so delighted with it. The instructions were easy to follow 😊❤

[@bridgetplunkett7630]

Great tutorial. I always said I can't sew but I tried this and I was absolutely thrilled with the result. I even made straps. I made it out of curtain material. So thanks again. Keep safe. From Ireland.

[@SierraHerring]

Clicked on a random video when I needed to learn how to assemble a tote, not realizing who made the video. Thank you for still guiding me from the great beyond as I learn how to do something new.

[@pepsi8967]

I was struggling to understand written tote bag making instructions and knew Melanie would come through for me

[@EJsDaughter]

Thank you. RIP. Prayers to your family for healing.

[@sashaiswright9824]

I just made a bag using your tutorial,. I’m not a beginner to sewing or making bags but I like trying different ways to do things. I really like the way the lining is incorporated at the top edge of the bag. Very pleased with the outcome. I’m usually too lazy to box out the corners or add inside pockets tbh 🤣but thank you for the inspiration to finally do both🤗🙌🏼

[@MelanieHam]

Yeah I don't always do those steps either when I'm just sewing for me ;)

[@Denizzmbm3]

This tote bag is amazing! Thanks so much for the clear tutorial :). I just sewed it along with you and the French seams are absolutely gorgeous and so sturdy! I'm really going to have a lot of fun with this one, thanks so much!

[@lindajacobs1487]

Thank you! I've watched several tutorials for tote bags, but like this one best! It is easier than any of the others. I have enough of the canvas fabric and cotton to make several!

[@JemimaCassidy]

here's another version to creating a customised tote bag :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/r53HnoelZ9RlhK8

[@dbigford2011]

Thank you so much for this detailed yet simple tutorial. This was the very first thing I tried after practicing straight lines. Lol. Good confidence boosting project. Thanks again💖

[@jessm1638]

By far the best tutorial! Loved the results!

[@cindypridgen3299]

I just found out she was gone. Absolutely heartbreaking 💔 😢 She was one of the main ones I watched when I began learning. My prayers go out to her family and fans!!

[@momgrandma5496]

Haven’t seen a bag constructed this way, like it, always need a bag for projects and such. Thanks Melanie.

[@armyhoney78]

i am brand new to sewing. i've made a few pillows this week and i was looking for a simple but cute project and you made everything very clear. thanks so much!

[@rexrover1]

Did you use canvas? I was going to use a sturdy cotton…

[@pamketron]

Hi Melanie - I’ve been watching you since the beginning, and you definitely come up with the best and easiest way to make things! I love this tote bag and how you layered the lining inside the outer fabric. Genius!!!! I also am a big fan of French seams. They just finish things off so nice. Thank you once again for a great tutorial. Stay Safe & Happy! 💕☀️🦋

[@denisedavies7629]

Wow glad I found this instructions so clear. Very sweet of u to share Denise from Australia

[@jeanninej224]

Thank you Melanie for all you gave us! ❤

[@lisasidoti6496]

I absolutely love your tutorials. I made a pencil pouch from your tutorial that i continue to use to this day.

[@kristenhills]

I will miss her tutorials so much 😢💔🙏🏻

[@lisasidoti6496]

Me too! Every time I watch one of her tutorials now I can help but cry. She was so young. I cannot imagine what her kids and husband are going through. We miss you Melanie.

[@tinalbaker72]

OMG this was the easiest bag ever. Thank you sweet Melanie.

[@insiyachoilawala5929]

Lovely! I absolutely love how you explain everything..it's clear , it's concise and detailed ...it's so great for beginners ..

[@MelanieHam]

I appreciate that, thank you!

[@waterboy8999]

Thank you lovely lady, very neatly done indeed. Best wishes on your recovery Melanie.

[@tdowe9881]

Love this series! I've watched them all and they are fantastic! ❤ As I am brand new at sewing, I do find that I'm having a lot of issues with needles and thread types and what to use when. I don't know about anyone else, but knowing the type of needle to use with what fabric your using, could be helpful 🤷🏻‍♀️ maybe it's just me though. 🙂

[@kimworkman2425]

I have that issue with needle size and settings myself

[@tracyjackson-blake9285]

You haven’t met me but you are my new bestie🙃! I have made a few of your bags for my kids and they adore their special little treat. Thanks for reminding me how to put together this bag each time in full detail with such patients, as if you haven’t already told me the steps 😆 Keep creating. Bless🙏🏽

[@stefaniedrewes6776]

I don’t know if you will read this, but I wanted to thank you! This is the first thing I have ever sewed in my life, and it turned out beautiful! It’s not yet perfect like yours, because I still have to practice keeping my seams perfectly straight. But it is definitely good enough to use and look like a real proper bag! You’re explanation was great and very easy to follow. So thank you so much! You really made my day :)

[@jessicagorey5066]

I love this! Would you ever consider doing a tutorial for a simple canvas messenger style bag like this?

[@didirikk]

Omg! I love this tutorial!! I have just finished making my tote bag. It took 3 hours but it looks amazing! Thank you so much! ❤️ I wish I could attach the photo of my bag. So pretty. ❤️

[@KellyMarie1204]

It took me three hours too haha!! But I love it!

[@debsturat]

Made 7 of thse....most out of cotton outer and lining. Works just as well. Excellent video...well explained. Thank you.

[@ruthportway5198]

Great demo and explanation.I can’t go shopping for fabric during this ‘stay home, stay safe’ period but I’m sure I have enough supplies in my stash tfs

[@suesworld7756]

Just made my first bag following your instructions. I LOVE it!!! You’re a great teacher, easy to understand and follow along. I look forward to watching more of your videos.

[@sbelle1494]

Thank you, I was looking for an easy tote bag tutorial with french seam and bottom width. Love from India❤

[@JeffenyGLee]

I'm in love with the construction of this bag!! Thank you so much.

[@barbaralegdan9031]

RIP Melanie, such a talented girl!

[@christinascreationschalkco4580]

Perfect timing for me! I have been looking for an easy to follow tutorial to make a nice bag. Thank you! You do great work!

[@madushanimunasinghe7246]

Oh my god i have watched many tutorials by many languages ..but this is the easiest and clearest tutorial i have ever seen...and you are very pretty and cute sometimes i loss my concentrate while watching ...

[@arulpadayachee7012]

Love the bag. Very neat French seams, and easy to follow instructions. Thank you Melanie! Made myself one

[@JemimaCassidy]

here's another version to creating a customised tote bag :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/r53HnoelZ9RlhK8

[@Mr.cjandj]

Thank you Melanie , you are missed 🖤

[@zorina831]

she is gone and sorely missed, but she is still teaching me. Miss her smile.

[@techvast.]

What happened??

[@eviebeavie6482]

Love all you stuff! I started off making your crochet projects and now I have progressed to sewing ;) Love you easy to follow tutorials!

[@malinibee4970]

Thanks a lot. Really Perfect Tote Bag I was looking for. Your instructions are so clear to follow. God bless you. Thanks again for sharing.

[@karenhickey3377]

I have never heard of French seams but I totally love that look!

[@ndean1687]

OMGosh! Thank you so much for this tutorial! I was wondering how I could make a couple of matching beach tote bags for my bestie and myself, and this is perfect! I was intimidated by the whole process of lining the bag, but you've made this look so easy!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!! 😁

[@pamdavis1613]

Melanie thank you! I did not know what French seams were, so easy! I have some canvas to make some bags and I needed easy! Thank you!

[@YaraHassan]

Thank you for this tutorial!! The first sewing project that I'm actually proud of!

[@miunica89]

Great tutorial! I am a beginner at sewing but this turned out really well. You gave enough information for making it successfully. It definitely took me a few hours more than it took for you, but it was a lot of fun!

[@suekuly4723]

Just had to let you know I followed your tutorial for the easy crochet baby blanket and have made so many over the years for newborns. Thank you for your easy to follow videos. 👌🏻

[@blazerfuhlife]

Where did you purchase the cloth material ?

[@MartaBorque]

This is the best tote bag tutorial ever!! I have followed the steps and my tote bag was amazing. I have to do more! Thanks for sharing with us 🧡🧡

[@mariapiesyk1938]

This is the best tutorial ever! Easy to follow and results are amazing! Thanks you very much for sharing this! I absolutely adore my new bag

[@cgarrido7310]

Just finished making this and my husband said its looks better then the tote bag i bought at Ardenes haha. Yay!

[@zoraidabullock8998]

I cant wait to make one of these for my upcoming beach trip. So excited to do french seams for the first time. Great tutorial!

[@lilyava5107]

This was an excellent tutorial!! I am very crafty, but never tried much sewing. This video has inspired me to try more sewing! Thank you!