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From the Publisher: How to Create Stylish Tote Bags Following The Martha Manual

Tote bags are incredibly versatile, featuring various options for buckles or grommets and a wide range of strap materials, including ribbon, rope, and leather. The possibilities are endless!

Basic Tote Bag Construction:

To begin, cut a piece of canvas that is twice the desired length of the bag plus 5 inches, and ensure it is 1 inch wider all around. Fold the canvas in half, making sure the right sides are together, and sew both sides using a ½-inch seam allowance. Next, create a double hem on the top by folding the edge ½ inch, then 2 inches, and sew all around to secure. Finally, turn the bag right side out and get ready to personalize it!

Grommet Tote Bag:

1. Mark the position of the grommets on the bag by tracing the inside of the opening with a pencil. Carefully cut an X on the marked circles using a craft knife. Set two grommets on both the front and back of the bag, following the instructions provided in the kit, using either a mallet or hammer.

2. Insert a ribbon through the grommets on the front of the bag. Fold the ends under ¼ inch twice and pin them to the other side of the ribbon at the top of the bag. Sew to secure. Repeat the same process for the grommets on the back of the bag. Alternatively, if using a cord handle, thread it through the grommets and knot it securely.

Supplies needed for Grommet Tote Bag: - Handleless tote, following the previous instructions - Pencil - Craft knife - Grommet kit - Mallet or hammer - Ribbon or cord strips cut to the desired length - Sewing supplies

Buckle Tote Bag:

1. Sew two buckles to the top edge of the bag, both on the front and back, using strong thread. Space them according to your preferences. Make sure to stitch around the center bar of each buckle multiple times to ensure a secure attachment.

2. Start about 2 inches from the ends of the leather strips, and use a rotary leather punch to create holes at 1-inch intervals. (For this demonstration, a ⅛-inch tube was used to create the holes.) Slide the ends of the leather strips through the buckles and fasten them.

Tip: When using leather handles, enhance their appearance by hand-stitching an X on each end with colorful waxed twine.

Supplies needed for Buckle Tote Bag: - Sewing supplies - Four buckles (5/8 inch) - Handleless tote, following the previous instructions - Rotary leather punch - Two lightweight cowhide leather strips, cut to the desired width and length

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