- Think about what you want from a travel tote, as one of the advantages of making your own travel tote at home is that it can be personalized to fit your needs and desires. Do you want a big travel tote? A small one? Do you need a zipper to keep all your things secure and in their place? Do you want an open bag so as to be able to quickly stow your purchases at the supermarket checkout line? Do you need more than one interior pocket? Do you need several outside pockets?
- Get a travel tote pattern. You can buy one from a local or online sewing store or craft store, or find one in a sewing magazine. You can also find a few travel tote patterns online for free. If you are an experienced sewer, it should not take you long at all to sew yourself a new travel tote, but if you aren't a confident sewer, then look for your local sewing group or sewing store. A number of sewing stores offer classes in how to make your own travel tote.
- No matter what type of a travel tote you have created, you can decorate and embellish it according to your heart's desires. Consider using decorative trim, buttons, iron-on patches, beading or needlework. You could even sew false pockets on the outside. The embellishments could be in the same colors as you used to make the tote or even a whole new color to serve as a contrast accent.
- You can make personalized homemade travel totes for your own use or as thoughtful gifts for family and friends. Consider monogramming your name or the recipient's name on the travel tote for the ultimate personalized touch. You can also make travel totes to sell at places like your local farmer's markets and craft fairs or through websites like Etsy and Ebay.
Needs and Desires
Pattern
Decoration and Embellishment
Personal and Commercial Use
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