Are you ready to unleash your inner crafter and create something truly unique and practical? This easy DIY sewing tutorial will guide you through making a vibrant crayon tote bag, perfect for keeping all your art supplies organized and easily accessible. Whether you're a seasoned sewer or just starting your crafting journey, this project is designed for beginners, requiring minimal sewing skills and readily available materials. Forget flimsy plastic bags – let’s create a durable, reusable, and personalized solution for carrying your crayons (and maybe some other art essentials!).
This colorful crayon tote bag project is not only fun but also incredibly rewarding. It's a fantastic way to recycle old fabric scraps and add a splash of creativity to your everyday life. From choosing your fabrics to the final stitch, we'll walk you through each step of the process, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable crafting experience. Ready to get started? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!
Preparation and Safety Guidelines
- Outer fabric (11x14 inches)
- Fusible fleece (11x14 inches)
- Lining fabric (11x14 inches)
- Pocket fabric (9.5x5 inches)
- Straps (2.5 inches wide x 18 inches long, 4 pieces)
- Sewing machine
- Iron
- Scissors
- Pins
- Measuring tape
- Walking foot (optional)
- Water-soluble pen (optional)
- Adult supervision is required, especially when handling scissors and needles.
- Always wash hands thoroughly before and after handling crayons to prevent wax transfer to fabric or skin.
- Avoid using crayons with broken tips as these may create sharp edges.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Outer Fabric
- Attach fusible fleece to outer fabric.
Prepare the Outer Fabric Make the Pocket
- Fold pocket fabric in half, stitch along the raw edge, leaving an opening to flip it right side out.
Make the Pocket Attach the Pocket
- Position the pocket (about 3.5 inches from the bottom and 1 inch from the sides), pin, and stitch down the sides and bottom. Add 1-inch lines for crayon slots.
Attach the Pocket Sew the Outer Fabric Pieces
- Stitch the sides and bottom of the outer fabric pieces using a ½ inch seam allowance.
Sew the Outer Fabric Pieces Make the Straps
- Sew the strap pieces together, leaving a small opening to turn right side out. Stitch around the edge to close the opening. Add two lines of stitching for extra security.
Make the Straps Make the Lining
- Stitch the lining pieces together with a ¼ inch seam allowance, leaving an opening at the bottom.
Make the Lining Attach Straps to Outer Fabric
- Measure and pin the straps 1 inch in and 1 ½ inches down from the top edge, then stitch securely.
Attach Straps to Outer Fabric Attach Lining to Outer Fabric
- Place the outer fabric inside the lining, right sides together. Pin and stitch around the top edge with a ½ inch seam allowance.
Attach Lining to Outer Fabric Finish and Top Stitch
- Turn right side out, press the seam, and top stitch around the entire bag, including the straps.
Finish and Top Stitch
Read more: DIY Picture Frame from Oat Cartons and Fabric: A Simple & Unique Craft
Tips
- Optional quilting: You can add quilting to the outer fabric before attaching the pocket. Fusible fleece is stitchable.
- Use a walking foot: A walking foot helps feed the fabric evenly, particularly helpful when sewing thicker layers.
- Use a water-soluble pen: For more precise stitching, mark your lines with a water-soluble pen before sewing.
- Press seams: Pressing your seams helps to create a clean and professional finish.