Tote Bag Calculator
Type in the finished tote bag dimensions you want and the fabric size is automatically calculated. Be sure to fill out all fields for the calculator to produce accurate pattern dimensions.
Note: This calculator contains a constant for a double fold hem around the top — 1/2” (1.5 cm for centimeter calculator) first fold and 1” (2.5 cm) second fold.
Instructions
These instructions are for a simple unlined tote bag.
Fabric recommendations: Woven, non-stretch fabric from hefty canvas to lightweight quilting cotton.
All seam allowances are 3/8” (1 cm).
Note: The dimensions used in these instructions may not reflect what your pattern pieces look like. Depending on the dimensions of your tote, your “Height” may be shorter than the “Length” — unlike these illustrations.
1) Cut one piece of fabric with the dimensions provided by the Tote Bag Calculator.
2) Fold the “Height” side of the fabric in half with right sides together. Sew both sides with 3/8” (1 cm) seam allowance).
Finish seams with serger or zigzag stitch.
3) Push the bottom corners into a triangular shape.
4) Make sure the side seam is positioned directly in the center of the triangle. Use a ruler to draw a line where the width of the triangle is the width entered into the Tote Bag Calculator. Sew along the line.
5) Trim to 3/8” (1 cm) seam allowance. Finish seam with serger or zigzag stitch.
6) Fold the top of the tote 1/2” (1.5 cm for centimeter calculator) down toward the wrong side and press.
7) Again fold the top of the tote down 1” (2.5 cm) and press.
8) Cut two lengths of webbing or cord for handles. Place the ends under the 1” (2.5 cm) fold and clip or pin in place.
If you could see through the top fold of fabric, the handle position should look about like this.
9) Sew all the way around 1/8” (3 mm) from the bottom edge of the fold.
10) Flip the handles up and sew bartacks over the cord or webbing.
11) Turn the tote right side out and admire your creation.
The Chamomile Crop is designed to be a staple basic in your wardrobe — something to be dressed up or down, to serve as a base for layering on cool days, and worn sleeveless on warm days.
The crop version is fully French seamed and uses a wide, double rolled hem for a high quality tank top that feels beautiful next to your skin, thrives in normal wash machine cycles, and lasts for years.
The dress version has large, in seam pockets, flows in the wind, and has a beautiful 1” hem.
The crop pairs well with all your high waisted pants, skirts, and shorts and gives it a playful feel. The silhouette is thoughtfully designed to not flare at the waist but to hang straight down in a slim profile from your bust.
The Chamomile comes with two shoulder/neck views - Wide Shoulder and Narrow Shoulder. The Wide Shoulder has a higher front and back neckline, and lots of coverage on your shoulders. The Narrow Shoulder has a lower front and back neckline to let the sunshine hit you, and slim straps that favor the outer edge of your shoulders to perfectly hide your bra straps.
Simple, step-by-step illustrated instructions walk you through how to sew the French seams, the bias tape around the neckline and armholes, and the double rolled hem, and the pockets, and skirt gathering for the dress version.
This is a graded pattern that comes with a print at home, a US 36” copy shop version, and an A0 copy shop version.
Fabric notes: Works best with lightweight to midweight woven fabrics that have a good amount of drape such as sandwashed rayon or linen, linen and rayon blends, and homespun cotton.
Sewing level: Intermediate beginner
Format: PDF Copy Shop & Print at Home versions. A download link to the PDF files is sent directly to your inbox for immediate access!