How do you sew a bag?

To sew a bag, cut the pattern pieces, iron on the fusible interfacing, sew the seams together, pin the handles to the top of the bag with the lining on top, and then sew around the top of the bag. This project requires large pieces and heavyweight fusible interfacing.

1. Cut the pattern pieces

   Cut two 18 by 14-inch rectangles from each of the materials. On the long sides, cut out 2 by 2-inch squares from the bottom corners of each one.

2. Iron the interfacing

   Position the exterior fabric face down on a table, and place the interfacing on top. Following the manufacturer's instructions, iron the fusible interfacing to the fabric.

3. Sew the sides and the bottom

   Pin the exterior fabric pieces together with the right sides facing in. Sew 1/2-inch seams along the sides and the bottom, but do not sew the cut corners. Iron the seams open. Repeat these steps for the fabric lining.

4. Sew the corners

   Pinch the opening of one corner together, aligning the side and bottom seams in the center. Place a pin straight across the corner, and sew a 1/2-inch seam. Repeat on the other corner and for the corners of the lining.

5. Complete the bag

   Cut two 21-inch handles from canvas strap or webbing. Pin the handles to the top of the bag on the inside. Insert the lining into the bag, and pin along the top. Sew a 1/2-inch seam around the perimeter to secure the handles and the lining. Turn the bag right-side out, and top-stitch the seam along the top of the bag.