Handmade Tote Bags

Beach-Towel Tote Bag

With a few stitches, a bath towel can be turned into an all-in-one beach mat and tote bag.

T-shirt Bag

Turning an old T-shirt into a grocery bag is an easy way to go green.

No-Sew Market Tote Bag

This no-sew bag can be stowed in your purse for a quick trip to the market, yet is strong enough to carry fruits and vegetables.

Monogrammed Tote

You can monogram a canvas tote without a single stitch: Print the initial as large as possible from a computer, enlarge further on a photocopier, and cut out to make a pattern. Back fabric with fusible webbing, following the package directions. Lay the initial facedown on the webbing side of the fabric; trace, and cut out. Center the letter on the bag, and iron on.

Yoga Mat Tote Bag

One of the best ways to keep your yoga mat in good condition is to house it in a tote bag such as this easy-to-make version.

Removable Tote Organizer

It's not a tote itself, but this handy accessory can help organize your favorite bag. A three-pocket pouch is easily fashioned from a carpenter's canvas nail apron (available at hardware stores).

Running-Stitch Tote

This carryall, decorated using a running stitch, is as stylish as it is sturdy, thanks to a simple pattern of threads in varying colors and textures.

Silhouette Tote Bag

A bag with a decorative silhouette is more than a useful carrier; it's a conversation piece.

Glittered Tote Bag

Make your tote bag sparkle with this glittering rhinestone-embellishment technique.

Doggie Tote Bag

Tote your pup, or at least his image, with you wherever you go with this adorable and easy-to-make bag.

Iron-On Monogram Tote with Petals

An iron-on initial in a woodsy typeface is an inspired (and easy) alternative to embroidery. Floral appliques extend the theme.

Embroidered Tote Bag

Turn a child's drawing into a long-lasting keepsake with this bag.

Tote Bag with Iron-On Blooms

Cherry blossoms are famously short-lived, but on a sturdy satchel they can last long past the season.

Appliqued Sea Star Tote Bag

A pair of sea stars float across a natural-hue tote. Because the canvas bag is too thick to print on, we used a lightweight canvas for the impressions (muslin also works) and appliqued them in place for a pleasing sense of dimension. The finished product is perfect for the beach, but it would look just as chic on a city street.

Iron-On Kids' Tote Bag

A cloth bag makes a natural canvas for young artists. This iron-on design will spur their self-expression.

Tote Bag with White Cherry Branch Silhouettes

White silhouettes give this tote bag a modern, screen-printed look.

Monochromatic Log-Cabin Leather Tote

A monochromatic log cabin design in soft cowhide gives the pattern a modern yet relaxed vibe.

To make the bag, stitch together an 8-by-5 1/2-inch rectangle and 3-inch-wide strips using a leather needle and heavy-duty thread. Be sure to increase the stitch length to avoid perforating the leather. Add a strap of natural canvas. If you like, you can sew a matching lining.

Personalized Tote Bag

What busy woman couldn't use a great bag? Just as personal as a gift of jewelry but a little less expected, a simple tote bearing a chic design is baggage any girl would want to carry around.

Tote Bags with Iron-On Silhouettes

Sleek silhouettes turn a modest bag into an artful accessory.