I was looking for advice/critique of my first tote bag. I got some leather from a retired cobbler. The leather is quite soft but it was the right color so I though I'd experiment with it anyway. I based the design on a bag my gf wanted.
It was so fun to make and I learned so much in the process. I hand stitched everything and those long stitch lines on the sides took over an hour each. I found it very uncomfortable hand stitching the sides since there is no convenient way to hold the bag in place. I ended up placing 2 desk lamps inside the bag to help hold it in place.
I really like the idea of using a single piece of leather for the body of the bag and the idea of folding the bottom portion around the side to add structure so the bag can stand up. The leather is quite soft and almost immediately the bag kinda flops over. I think i'll make the next one with stiffer leather.
I also wanted to open up a discussion about tote bag straps. I spend a lot of time thinking of the best/most efficient/elegant way to do the straps. Since the leather is soft and a bit stretchy I thought I'd glue 2 pieces together and have a single stitch line running the length of the strap. But glueing, stitching and cutting such a strap was tough to get perfect.
Thank you!
Is there a technique or special stitching pony that is used for hand stitching large awkward items like tote bags?
I simply had the bag sitting up on a desk and i had to lean over the bag for hours. It was very hard to see the holes inside the bag due to the restricted space inside the bag.
Thanks
Nice bag!
I would personally keep the stiched straps, they bring something quite nice to the bag. Instead, I would only single stitch the sides. I mean, it is a saddle stitch, aint nothing going to destroy that.
Thank you!
I recently got some used sinabroks french irons but I thought I wanted a straighter stitch line to minimize it's appearance. So i used some diamond chisels and didn't "cast" the stitch. "cast"ing a stitch makes the angled appearance greater on the final stitch, right? Also hand stitching inside the bag is so awkward I thought not casting would make my life easier. This is my first big projects and I learned that it's not good for me to rush. If you look closely you can see where stitches aren't perfect probably due to me rushing. I learned so much!
It looks very nice! I like the clean look it has. Sewing the straps on the inside gives the tote a modern look. I like your design for the bottom! It allows for a more formed look and it probaly makes the tote stay in place when it's off the shoulders.
Nice work, well done!
For this kind of unlined tote bag, I think the softness is ideal. It would still be nice with firmer leather. But totes like this are usually designed to be fancy shopping bags that can be folded or rolled up if needed. So I like the leather choice.
As for the straps, a machine stitch would really come in handy here, but I dare say a good quality glue may be all you need for a casual tote.
Hello yiggort,
This project showcase your excellent hand stitching skill! It is very appealing; simple and beautiful! Thanks!