Why tote bags?

Tote bags are the MVPs of handmade projects. They’re easy to make, endlessly useful, and totally customizable. Here’s why we’re obsessed:

• Perfect for beginners – simple shapes, straight lines, no stress
• Endlessly versatile – use them for groceries, books, beach trips, crafts, or everyday errands
• Eco-friendly – ditch plastic and go handmade instead
• Gift-worthy – make one for every friend, teacher, or family member
• Customizable – play with fabric, yarn, pockets, linings, straps, and size

What kinds of tote bag patterns will you find here?

This page is a goldmine of creative tote bag ideas, including:

• Free sewing patterns for basic, lined, boxed-bottom, and reversible totes
• Crochet tote bags – classic, granny square, mesh, and summer-ready styles
• Knitted tote bags – soft and stretchy or sturdy with structure
• Patchwork and quilted tote bags – a beautiful way to use up fabric scraps
• Upcycled totes made from old jeans, T-shirts, canvas bags, or leftover fabric

Whether you want to make a roomy shopper, a stylish market bag, or a mini book tote, you’ll find a project (or five) you’ll want to try.

First time making a tote bag?

Don’t worry – it’s one of the easiest and most satisfying projects to sew or crochet! Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

For sewing:

• Cotton or canvas fabric (sturdier is better!)
• Thread, scissors, pins, and a basic sewing machine
• Optional: fusible interfacing for structure, lining fabric, magnetic snaps

For crochet or knitting:

• Cotton yarn or a yarn blend with some strength
• Hooks or needles in the recommended size
• Optional: fabric lining for extra durability

Start with a basic flat tote with straps or a simple mesh crochet tote – you’ll be amazed how quickly it comes together.

Want to make it your own?

Tote bags are the perfect blank canvas. Add:

• A zipper pocket, key clip, or magnetic snap
• A patchwork exterior with favorite fabric scraps
• Fun lining fabric, contrast straps, or piping
• Appliqué, embroidery, or fabric paint for a personal touch
• Extra pockets inside and out for organizing on the go

There’s no wrong way to make a tote. Just go with your style and have fun with it!

Tote bag ideas by occasion

Looking for a specific kind of tote? Try these ideas:

• Market bag for groceries or farmers market hauls
• Library tote for books and notebooks
• Beach bag with room for a towel, snacks, and sunscreen
• Craft tote to hold your yarn, hooks, or current WIP
• Gift bag – better than wrapping paper and reusable, too!

Make a bunch to stash in your car, gift closet, or hallway hook. Once you get started, you won’t want to stop.

Have a free tote bag pattern to share?

If you’ve designed a tote bag tutorial – sewn, crocheted, knitted, or upcycled – we’d love to feature it!

Here’s how to submit:

• Your project must be free to access online (blog, site, etc.)
• Include clear photos and step-by-step instructions
• Fill out this form

We’ll review it, and if it fits our audience, we’ll link to your post right here on Crafts on Display.

Scroll through and get inspired

We’re always adding more awesome patterns to this tag page, so keep checking back! Whether you’re sewing up fabric scraps, crocheting with cotton yarn, or turning old jeans into something fabulous, you’ll find your next favorite project right here. Happy tote-making!