DIY Tote Bags: 16 Different Styles That is Easy to Make and Sell
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I remember my first tote bag sale like it was yesterday! It was not just about the $25 profit. It was about the absolute proof that people would actually buy what I created with my own two hands. If you are looking for a way to turn your sewing hobby into a serious income stream, you are in the right place!
Tote bags are the ultimate entry-level craft for high profit margins. They require minimal fabric, follow simple patterns, and have a massive market on platforms like Etsy. You do not need a factory to start. You just need a few yards of canvas and a vision. I am so excited to show you how to turn a few stitches into a real business!
Now, let us look at the 16 trending styles that are currently dominating the market. These are tried, tested, and ready for you to sew!
1. Minimalist Canvas Tote
This is the bread and butter of the tote bag world. It is a single tone, heavy-duty canvas bag with clean lines and reinforced stitching. It appeals to the customer who values quiet luxury and pure utility.
Materials Needed
- 12oz Heavy Duty Canvas Fabric
- Cotton Webbing for straps
- Heavy Duty Sewing Thread
- Singer 4423 Sewing Machine
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cut two rectangles of canvas measuring 15 by 17 inches.
- Finish the top edge by folding it over twice and sewing a straight line.
- Pin the webbing straps 4 inches from the side edges.
- Sew the straps using an X-box stitch for maximum strength.
- Place right sides together and sew the sides and bottom.
Why it Sells
Minimalist items sell best on Etsy because they are versatile. The competitive edge here is personalization. By adding heat-press initials, you turn a basic bag into a custom gift that people will pay a premium for!
2. Reversible Market Bag
Two bags in one! This style uses two contrasting fabrics, allowing the user to flip the bag inside out to match their outfit or mood. It feels like a premium value for the customer and looks stunning in photos.
Materials Needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cut your main fabric and lining fabric to the same dimensions.
- Sew the main bag and the lining bag separately.
- Place the main bag inside the lining bag with right sides facing each other.
- Sew around the top edge, leaving a small 4-inch opening.
- Pull the bag through the opening and top-stitch the edge shut.
Why it Sells
Market this as eco-friendly and versatile. Use a combination of a trendy floral print on one side and a solid neutral on the other. It appeals to shoppers who want to make money from home while promoting sustainability.
3. Zippered "Commuter" Tote
Security is a major concern for city dwellers. A standard open tote is great for groceries, but the Commuter Tote features a recessed top zipper to keep belongings safe on the subway or at the office.
Materials Needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Iron the interfacing onto your canvas pieces for extra stability.
- Attach the zipper to the top panels before assembling the bag.
- Sew the side seams and bottom while the zipper is partially open.
- Turn the bag right side out and press the seams flat.
- Attach reinforced handles to handle the weight of laptops or books.
Why it Sells
Highlight anti-theft features in your product descriptions. You can charge a premium for this added security. It is a functional upgrade that busy professionals are absolutely willing to pay for.
4. Boxed Bottom Tote
Unlike a flat tote, this bag has a 3D shape that allows it to stand upright when filled. It provides significantly more volume and a professional, structured look that customers love.
Materials Needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sew your basic tote bag shape as normal.
- Reach inside and flatten the bottom corner into a triangle.
- Measure 2 inches from the tip and sew a straight line across the corner.
- Repeat for the other corner to create a flat base.
- Trim the excess fabric and finish the raw edges.
Why it Sells
Market this specifically to teachers, nurses, or crafters. These groups need to carry bulky supplies like binders or yarn bowls. Mention the high capacity in your marketing copy to close the sale!
5. Mesh Produce Bag
These are lightweight, breathable cotton mesh bags designed for grocery shopping. They are the ultimate zero-waste accessory and look incredibly chic in a kitchen setting.
Materials Needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cut the mesh fabric into rectangles.
- Use bias tape to bind the top edges to prevent fraying.
- Sew the sides and bottom using a zigzag stitch for flexibility.
- Create a casing at the top for the drawstring.
- Thread the cord through and knot the ends.
Why it Sells
Target the eco-conscious crowd! These sell best when bundled in sets of three or five. They are incredibly cheap to make, meaning your profit margins are excellent even at a lower price point.
Material Comparison Guide
| Material Type | Ease of Sewing | Durability | Best For... |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heavy Canvas | High | Extreme | Everyday Totes |
| Cotton Mesh | Medium | Medium | Produce Bags |
| Upcycled Denim | Low | High | Boho Styles |
| Ripstop Nylon | High | Medium | Foldable Bags |
6. Denim Upcycled Bag
Sustainability is more than a trend! This bag is made from repurposed jeans, often keeping the original pockets intact for extra storage. It is rugged, stylish, and full of character.
Materials Needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cut the legs off old jeans and open the seams to get flat fabric.
- Patch the denim pieces together to create a large sheet.
- Cut your bag panels from the patched denim.
- Incorporate an original pocket onto the front for a functional detail.
- Sew together with heavy-duty thread to handle the thick layers.
Why it Sells
Every piece is one of a kind! Emphasize slow fashion and the fact that you are saving textiles from the landfill. This is one of the most profitable small business ideas for crafters today.
7. Padded Laptop Tote
This is a high-ticket item. It includes an internal foam or fleece lining to protect tech devices while still looking like a stylish handbag rather than a clunky computer case.
Materials Needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Measure your laptop and add 2 inches to all sides for the pattern.
- Fuse the fleece to the back of your lining fabric.
- Quilt the outer fabric to the padding for extra texture.
- Assemble the bag with the padded lining inside.
- Add an internal pocket for the charger and mouse.
Why it Sells
You can charge at least twice the price of a standard tote for this functionality. It solves a specific problem: carrying a laptop safely without using a boring case. Check out more profitable machines to help scale this style!
8. Foldable Pocket Bag
This clever design allows the entire bag to fold up into a tiny attached pouch. It is small enough to keep in a purse or car glove box, making it the perfect emergency bag.
Materials Needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sew a small 5x5 inch square pouch with a snap closure.
- Sew the main body of the tote using lightweight ripstop nylon.
- Attach the open edge of the pouch to the inside top seam of the bag.
- Ensure the pouch is oriented so the bag can be stuffed inside it.
- Reinforce handles with multiple rows of stitching as nylon is slippery.
Why it Sells
These are "impulse buy" gold! Because they are so practical for travel, customers often buy them in multiples. I love suggesting these as a great night job project because they are quick to sew once you master the fold.
9. Drawstring Backpack Tote
The hybrid we all needed! This style combines the classic tote shape with drawstring straps that allow it to be worn as a backpack. It is the ultimate hands-free solution for festivals or campus life.
Materials Needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sew a standard tote body but leave a 1-inch casing at the very top.
- Install two metal grommets at the bottom corners of the bag.
- Thread two separate lengths of cord through the top casing in opposite directions.
- Pull the ends of the cords down through the grommets and knot securely.
- Test the "cinch" to make sure the bag closes tightly when pulled.
Why it Sells
This appeals to a younger demographic. If you are looking for small business ideas for teens, this is a winner. It’s trendy, functional, and very easy to customize.
10. Oversized Beach Tote
Go big or go home! This tote is designed to hold towels, snacks, and sunscreen. I always add a water-resistant lining because wet swimsuits are a reality of beach life.
Materials Needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cut your canvas into extra-large panels (at least 20x24 inches).
- Box the corners deeply (4-5 inches) to give the bag a massive base.
- Sew the waterproof lining separately and drop it into the canvas shell.
- Use extra-long webbing straps for comfortable shoulder carrying.
- Top stitch the top rim twice for industrial-grade durability.
Why it Sells
Seasonality is your friend! These fly off the shelves in late spring. They make fantastic Easter craft gifts if you use pastel canvases and fill them with goodies!
11. Color Block Tote
If you have a mountain of fabric scraps, this is the style for you. By sewing different colored panels together, you create a modern look that belongs in a high-end boutique.
Materials Needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Design your pattern on paper first (e.g., diagonal split or stripes).
- Cut your fabric pieces, adding a 1/2 inch seam allowance to every side.
- Sew the panels together to create complete front and back sheets.
- Press every seam open and flat—this is the secret to a professional look!
- Assemble the tote as you would a standard minimalist bag.
Why it Sells
The "Aesthetic" factor. These bags photograph beautifully for Instagram. In the world of Etsy, a great photo is 80% of the sale. Use bold, trendy colors like sage green and mustard to grab attention.
12. Leather Bottom Tote
This is where DIY meets Designer. Adding a faux leather base doesn't just look expensive—it protects the bottom of the bag from wear. It's the ultimate sophisticated tote.
Materials Needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cut a strip of faux leather the width of your bag and 10 inches tall.
- Top-stitch the leather onto the bottom section of canvas panels before joining.
- Use a longer stitch length (3.5mm) so you don't perforate the leather too much.
- Sew side seams slowly over the area where leather and canvas meet.
- Use a pressing cloth if you need to iron—never touch the leather with the iron!
Why it Sells
Perceived value! A bag with leather accents can easily sell for $45-$60. It’s one of the best ways to maximize your margins. Investing in profitable machines for heavy-duty sewing will make this much easier.
13. Multi-Pocket Diaper Tote
Moms need organization! This bag features at least six internal pockets for bottles and wipes. I like to use a cute nursery print for the lining to give it that boutique feel.
Materials Needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Create a long strip of lining fabric and sew elastic along the top edge.
- Sew this strip to the main lining, dividing it into sections for bottles.
- Reinforce the bottom with a rigid insert so the bag doesn't sag.
- Add wide, padded straps for carrying heavy baby gear.
- Install a magnetic snap at the top for easy one-handed access.
Why it Sells
The "Baby" niche is recession-proof. Personalize these with the baby's name using a Cricut EasyPress for an even higher price point!
14. Clear Stadium Tote
With stadium security getting tighter, everyone needs a clear bag for concerts. But "clear" doesn't have to be boring. Use colorful bias tape to give these a high-fashion edge.
Materials Needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cut your vinyl panels carefully—marks will show!
- Use a Teflon foot or scotch tape on your regular foot so it doesn't "stick."
- Bind all raw edges with bias tape as you sew for structure and color.
- Sew slowly with a longer stitch to prevent the vinyl from tearing.
- Add a fun, colorful webbing handle to finish the look.
Why it Sells
It's a "Must-Have." When security rules change, people go straight to Etsy for alternatives. These are extremely cheap to produce and have a very high turnover rate.
15. Quilted Puffer Tote
The "Puffer" trend is everywhere! These bags are soft, lightweight, and incredibly cozy. They look like a cloud on your shoulder and are surprisingly durable.
Materials Needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sandwich your batting between two layers of nylon.
- Use a disappearing fabric pen to draw horizontal or diamond quilt lines.
- Sew along these lines with a walking foot to prevent shifting.
- Once panels are quilted, assemble the bag as usual.
- Create "puffy" handles by stuffing a fabric tube with batting scraps.
Why it Sells
Fashion forward! These bags are currently trending in high-end streetwear. If you can make these in metallic colors, you’ll tap into a massive market of trend-conscious shoppers.
16. Wine Bottle Tote
The perfect host gift! These tall, narrow totes are designed to hold one or two bottles securely. They are a huge step up from flimsy paper bags from the liquor store.
Materials Needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cut two long rectangles (approx. 6x14 inches).
- Sew the sides and bottom, leaving the top open.
- Create a small boxed bottom (1 inch) so the bottle sits flat.
- Add a single, sturdy loop handle or a drawstring closure.
- Stencil a fun quote or "Cheers!" on the front using fabric paint.
Why it Sells
Gifting! People want to make a bottle of wine feel like a "real" gift. These are the ultimate "scrap buster" because they use so little fabric. They are perfect for holiday baskets!
Actionable Next Steps for Your Tote Bag Business
- Order Your Core Materials: Start with a bolt of 12oz Canvas—it's the most versatile base.
- Perfect Your Photography: Use natural light and simple props to show scale.
- Batch Your Sewing: Cut 10 bags at once, then sew 10 bags at once to increase your hourly wage.
- Get Social: Post "Behind the Scenes" reels of you sewing. People love to see the hands that made their products!
I can’t wait to see what you create! Whether you’re making a simple minimalist tote or a complex diaper bag, remember that every stitch is a step toward your own creative freedom. Happy sewing!
Enoch Olalusi
Online Hustler,Marketer and Entrepreneur Dedicated to teaching about Online marketing, Affiliate Marketing, Digital Marketing, Social Media Marketing, and various Make Money Online Tips
