Over-Shoulder Tote Bag Tutorial

Today's work environment requires 24-hour communication. Traditional 8-to-5 office workplaces often have been replaced with virtual offices using laptops, cell phones and other communication devices such as Blackberries and iPhones. If your business is more on-the-go instead of behind the desk, an over-the-shoulder tote you make yourself can help keep all of your accessories in one spot.

Materials and Tools

Depending on your personal preference, choose a material that matches your style. For a casual look, buy denim or repurpose an old pair of jeans. For a more professional look, opt for leather or suede. You can also choose a funky pattern or preppy quilted material. Whatever pattern or style you choose, make sure the material is durable since you will be carrying a rather heavy load.

Purchase enough material so your laptop and other items fit completely down inside. Add an additional length of fabric to your purchase if you plan to add pockets for accessories. Since the bag is deep, create a specific pocket for your cellphone and keys to prevent you from taking everything out each time you need to make a call or drive your car.

You will also need a sewing machine or heavy-duty cotton thread and a needle to assemble your tote. Buy appliques if desired and either Velcro or a zipper. Decide what type of straps you want, and purchase those as well. Ribbon straps are more feminine and decorative but not as sturdy as straps made from rope or the same material as your tote. Sling a tape measure across your shoulder and to the opposite hip to determine how long you need to make the straps.

Construction

Cut your fabric into two pieces then stack them right side facing. Stitch three sides leaving the top open. Fold the top edge down and iron flat. Stitch a hem and turn right-side out to form a bag.

If you plan to add custom pockets to the inside, measure your cell phone and cut a piece of fabric about an inch or so larger on all sides so your phone will fit comfortably inside. Sew the pocket onto the inside of the bag taking care to stitch neatly so the seams will not mar the outside of the tote. It may be wise to add embellishments on the outside of the tote to hide any pocket seams. Some good choices include appliques or ribbons. You may also want to embroider your initials.

Add the straps by stitching the ends to the inside edge of the tote. If you are using the same fabric as the tote, cut a piece twice as wide as you want the straps and fold it over for more strength. Sew a hem then sew to the tote. For rope or ribbon, simply cut to the length you need and stitch inside the tote. Make sure to run it through your sewing machine a couple of times to firmly attach the straps.

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