RUTH convertible tote bag sewing pattern

I actually designed this tote bag using a plain denim fabric for my own use.  It is really a nice tote bag to have and really easy and fun to sew during the process of making this tote bag.  I decided to redesign it into a convertible tote with crossbody bag strap and also I am using contrasting fabric print for the front pockets.   I am so thrilled with the result.   Here it is, my new sewing pattern, RUTH convertible tote bag, is available in my Etsy shop now.  Simply click on any photo below to lead you to my Etsy shop ^v^

 It is a mid-sized tote bag (or you can opt to make it as a crossbody bag) that is perfect for everyday use ! It is a fun to sew and functional multiple pockets tote bag (or cross body bag) that is just perfect to store your daily essential. It is perfect for many occasions or seasons, from day-to-day usage, leisure shopping to travelling purpose, a bag for all time. 

It's simple yet sophisticated to carry around. With a little touch of you chosen fabrics (either you can make it plain or a contrasting pockets at the front), you’ll will create a tote bag that you love ! I am owning the denim Ruth tote bag myself now (^v^).

*** SPECIAL FEATURES ***

- Many roomy pockets
*pockets 1 Main zipper pocket
* 1 front zippered pocket for keeping things handy and secure.
* 2 slip pockets at the front for easy store your essential such us sunglass, notepad, keys, access card etc
* 2 slip pockets in the tote bag
- crossbody adjustable strap ( the sewing pattern provides separate file for making the straw and optional for your download).
- short handles for easy grab and go
- with so many pockets and roomy compartment, you can use it as a project bag too.

*** MATERIALS REQUIRED***

Fabrics and interfacing

• 1 yard exterior fabric
• 1 yard lining
• ½ yard fusible fleece
• 1 fat quarter fusible interfacing
• 1 zipper 13 ½” x 1” width zipper (main compartment)
• 1 zipper 11(½)” x 1” width zipper (front pocket)

For the bag straps :

• 2 pieces of 1” width swivel
• 2 pieces of 1” width D rings
• 1 piece of 1” width slide bucket or strap slider
• 1 piece of 56” (length) x 1” width cotton or polyester belting
• 2 pieces of 2( ½ )” x 1” cotton or polyester belting

The Pattern also provide another instant downloadable page for you to make your own cross body bag strap.  You can use it as a tote or crossbody bag as you like it.

Remember to check it out at my shop ^v^

Making An Adjustable Crossbody Bag Strap DIY Tutorial

Adjustable strap is always so handy to have for your tote bag or crossbody bags.  There are many occasions when it’s nice to have a hands-free option, isn’t it ?  I made one for my Wanderer Crossbody bag to allow additional carrying option, please feel free to check it out.

While making my Ruth 2 Way Tote bag, I thought I am going to share this tutorial of making a bag strap that measures 48” (L) x 1” (W), excluding the swivel hooks.  Also I am using cotton weaved belting or strapping in for this tutorial, however, you can opt to choose polyester type.

Refer to photo below, you will need :

2 pieces of swivel hooks , 1”  measured by the inner width

1 piece of slide bucket, 1” measured by the inner width

1 piece of polyester or cotton belting, 56” x 1” (length)

1.  Begin by cutting the belting or strapping, seals the 2 ends with Fray Check (you may also use glue gun or fabric glue in this case), if you are using polyester belting, you may need to melt the 2 ends with open flame (be extremely careful).

2. Weave one end over center bar and under outside edges of slide adjuster. Extend the open end about 2” past the center bar of slide adjuster.  At the same time, mark ½” from the open end as shown in yellow line below.

3. Fold ½” from the open edge as shown below.

4.  Then fold the strap end over center bar of slide bucket.  Line up the strapping edges properly

5.  Stitch a narrow rectangle to secure raw end. (green rectangular box in photo below)

6.   Insert other end of strapping through one of the swivel hook, note that the direction of the swivel hook should be at the front side of the strap.

7.  Weave the open end in Step (6) through the slide bucket as shown in photo below.

8. Slide the other piece of swivel through the front side of the strap.

9.  Repeat step (2) to Step (4) onto the swivel this time, all the photos below.

10.  You’re done! You now have an adjustable of your own  ^v^, removable strap that can be used on all kinds of bags and totes.