🧵 How to Make a Tote Bag (Kendin Yap Çanta / Bolsa de Bricolage)

 Of course! Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to make a tote bag (Kendin Yap Çanta / Bolsa de Bricolage / DIY Tote Bag) — written in a clear, bilingual-friendly style so it’s easy to follow whether you speak English, Turkish, or a bit of both 🇬🇧🇹🇷🇪🇸.

---

🧵 How to Make a Tote Bag (Kendin Yap Çanta / Bolsa de Bricolage)

✂️ Materials (Malzemeler / Materiales)

You’ll need:

• Fabric (Kumaş / Tela) – Cotton canvas or denim works best. Size: about 1/2 meter.

• Scissors (Makas / Tijeras)

• Measuring tape or ruler (Mezur / Regla)

• Pins or clips (İğne / Alfileres)

• Thread (İplik / Hilo) – matching or contrasting color

• Sewing machine (Dikiş makinesi / Máquina de coser) (or hand-sewing needle)

• Iron (Ütü / Plancha) – optional but helpful

• Optional: lining fabric, pocket fabric, decorations, or embroidery

---

📏 Step 1: Measure and Cut the Fabric

1. Cut two rectangles of fabric: 40 cm x 45 cm (this will be the body of the tote).

2. For the handles, cut two long strips: 8 cm x 60 cm each.

3. (Optional) Cut a smaller piece for an inner pocket, e.g., 15 cm x 20 cm.

💡 Tip: If you want a stronger bag, use thicker fabric or double-layer it with lining.

---

🧷 Step 2: Sew the Handles

1. Fold each fabric strip in half lengthwise (right sides facing in).

2. Sew along the long edge (1 cm seam allowance).

3. Turn it right-side out and press flat with an iron.

4. Topstitch along both long edges for strength and a professional look.

---

🧵 Step 3: Sew the Main Body

1. Place the two large rectangles right sides together.

2. Pin along the sides and bottom.

3. Sew the two sides and bottom edge, leaving the top open.

4. If you want a flat bottom, fold and sew the bottom corners (about 5 cm from the corner).

---

👜 Step 4: Add the Handles

1. Turn the bag right side out.

2. Measure and pin the handles about 10 cm from each side seam on the top edge.

3. Make sure the handles are not twisted.

4. Sew the handles securely to the bag (sew a box or an X shape for strength).

---

🧵 Step 5: Finishing Touches

• Fold the top edge of the bag twice (about 2 cm each time) to make a clean hem.

• Sew all around the top edge to secure it and trap the handles inside the seam.

• (Optional) Sew in your inner pocket or add decoration, embroidery, or a logo.

---

💡 Optional Variations

• Lined tote: Add a second inner layer for extra strength.

• Reversible tote: Use two patterned fabrics and sew them together with reversible handles.

• Decorative: Add patches, paint, or iron-on prints.

• Eco tote: Use old jeans, curtains, or T-shirts for upcycling.

---

🌿 DIY Style (Kendin Yap Tarzı / Estilo Bricolage)

This project is perfect for beginners and a fun way to recycle old fabric. You can customize your tote for:

• Shopping 🛍️

• Beach 🏖️

• Books 📚

• Gifts 🎁

---

Would you like me to make this into a printable illustrated guide or PDF pattern (with a sewing template and pictures)? I can create that for you next.

Watch video: