Making a Tote Bag

How to Make a Leather Tote Bag with a Sewing Machine: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you looking to create your own leather tote bag using a sewing machine? Look no further! In this video, I’ll show you my process for making a high-quality leather tote bag using a sewing machine and the finest leather tanned in the United States. Each bag is individually crafted in my Taza Leather studio in Florida, and I’m excited to share my process with you.

Step 1: Choose Your Leather

The first step in making a leather tote bag is selecting the right leather. I recommend using high-quality, full-grain leather, which is the strongest and most durable type of leather. For this tutorial, I’ll be using leather tanned in the United States.

Step 2: Cut the Leather

Once you’ve chosen your leather, it’s time to cut it to the appropriate size for your tote bag. I recommend using a rotary cutter or leather knife to ensure clean, precise cuts.

Step 3: Prepare the Pieces

After cutting the leather, it’s time to prepare the pieces for stitching. This involves marking and punching holes along the edges of the leather pieces, which will allow you to sew them together. I recommend using a stitching chisel or pricking iron to create evenly spaced holes.

Step 4: Stitch the Pieces Together

With your holes punched, it’s time to stitch the leather pieces together using a sewing machine. I recommend using a leather needle and a heavy-duty thread to ensure the stitches are strong and durable.

Step 5: Finish the Edges

Once the pieces are stitched together, it’s time to finish the edges of the tote bag. This involves sanding and burnishing the edges to create a smooth, polished finish.

Step 6: Add Straps and Hardware

With the main body of the tote bag complete, it’s time to add straps and hardware. I recommend using high-quality hardware, such as solid brass, to ensure the longevity of your tote bag.

Step 7: Enjoy Your New Leather Tote Bag!

And there you have it – your very own handmade leather tote bag using a sewing machine! Whether you use it for work, travel, or everyday use, you can be sure that it’s a one-of-a-kind piece that will last for years to come.

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial and learned something new. If you’d like to see more content like this, please consider subscribing to my YouTube channel. Your support helps me to continue creating quality content and sharing my passion for leatherworking with others.