This tote bag has a buckle attached to the bag’s opening that doubles as a handle. The fabric used for this bag is [Plants], a new pattern for 2023 by echino. The textile has unique plant shapes and silhouettes spread across the entire width of the fabric. The pattern is large, so you can enjoy different looks depending on where you cut out the pattern. The solid cotton linen canvas fabric is recommended for bags as well as tablecloths and throw pillow covers.

We interviewed Yui about her creation:
Kokka Fabric (KF): What did you think of the fabric you used for this project?
The clear lines and colors are very gorgeous and beautiful. I created a bag of a generous size to make the most of the large pattern.

KF: Can you tell us any special elements or ideas that you incorporated into this creation?
I designed this bag to be easy-to-make and to have a unique and cute shape. The solid cotton linen canvas allowed me to create a lightweight bag without applying a backing.

KF: What are some tips for making this bag?
When sewing around the opening, please use more clips and pins or baste first to keep the fabrics in alignment for a clean finish.

KF: How should we incorporate this bag into one’s styling?
I wanted to make a bag large enough for an overnight trip, yet as compact and lightweight as possible. This bag is perfect for days when you have a lot to carry, or for leisure activities. I think it would be very nice to be styled with a white shirt for an elegant casual look.

KF: Thank you very much, Yui! Here are sewing instructions along with step by step photos from her. Enjoy crafting!

Instructions

1.

Prepare the materials.

2.

Make the handles. Fold both long ends for 1cm inward and then fold in half.

3.

Apply stitches on both long ends. Make two pieces.

4.
Make the opening fabric. Apply zigzag stitches on both ends. Fold the opening in three and apply stitches.

5.
Make two pieces. Attach an artificial leather tape on one piece. ※Leave 2cm unsewn on both ends.

6.
7.

With the front sides facing each other, sew together the bag body at both sides, bottom and gusset. Repeat the same process for the lining fabrics. ※At the bottom of the lining fabrics, leave an opening for turning.

8.

Baste the handle.

9.

With the front sides facing each other, put together the opening fabric and lining bag with the outer bag, and sew all the way around at the top.

10.

Turn it inside out. Apply stitches around the top opening. Close the opening for turning and attach the buckle to finish.

◎Sewing Tutorial

◎Sewing Tutorial(PDF format / A4 size)

KOKKA’s official online shop information

Kokka Fabrics is the official online store run by Kokka USA, Inc. We specialize in printed fabrics but also have a wide range of high-quality solid textiles.
We ship to the United States and Canada from our warehouse located in Torrance, California.

cocca is the official online store run by KOKKA Co., LTD, based in Osaka, Japan. Alongside selected KOKKA fabrics, you can also find lifestyle goods like umbrellas inspired by our textiles.
We ship internationally from our warehouse in Japan.

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