Make your own heart shape tote bag with this free pattern and tutorial
- meggou279
- Jan 26
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 1
Making your own tote bag is a rewarding project that combines creativity with practicality. A heart shaped tote bag adds a charming twist to the classic design, making it perfect for all skill levels. This tutorial will guide you step-by-step through creating a beautiful heart shaped tote bag using a simple pattern. This bag can be reversible!
Materials You Will Need
Before starting, gather the following materials to ensure a smooth sewing process:
Fabric: 1/2 yard of fabric of choice. I decided to cut up a quilt I found thrifting - adds extra sturdiness!
Lining fabric: 1/2 yard of cotton fabric
Thread: Matching color to your fabric.
Scissors or rotary cutter
Pins or clips
Heart shaped tote bag pattern: Download and print this free pattern!
Iron and ironing board
Understanding the Heart Shaped Tote Bag Pattern
The heart shaped tote bag pattern consists of two main pieces: the front and back panels, both cut in a heart shape. The handles are usually made from long strips of fabric that attach to the top curves of the heart. You will need to be able to sew curves and understand the assembly of a bag lining.
Cutting the Fabric
Prepare your fabric: Iron it to remove wrinkles.
Place the pattern: Pin the heart shaped pattern onto your fabrics, placing the middle of the heart of the folds. NOTE: to create two folds with half a yard, fold both selvages to the middle. This way it creates two folds for you to use and conserves fabric.
Cut carefully: Cut two pieces from the main fabric and two from the lining fabric if using.
Cut the handles: Cut two strips approximately 27 inches long and 4 inches wide for handles.
Sewing the Tote Bag
Step 1: Prepare the Handles
If your handle fabric is not too thick, assemble it as you would assemble bias tape. Fold each long end towards the middle and then fold in half. Sew down both sides making sure to sew the open side first.
If your fabric is too thick for the method above, then you can assemble the straps another way.
Fold each strap in half and sew along the long edge with a 1/2 inch seam allowance.
Turn the tube right side out and press flat.
Topstitch along both edges for a clean finish.
Step 2: Attach Handles to Front Panel
Lay one outside heart fabric piece right side up.
Position the handles on the top curves of the heart, in between the two markings on the pattern.
Pin the raw edges of the handles to the fabric, making sure the handles extend inward.
Baste or sew the handles in place.
Step 3: Sew outside to lining around the top curves
NOTE: If you want to add a pocket to the inside or outside piece, do that before you begin the next steps.
Place the outside and lining heart pieces right sides together.
Pin around the curved edges from notch to notch.
Sew around the edges with a 1/2 inch seam allowance, making sure to pivot in the center of the heart.
Clip the curves carefully to reduce bulk and clip close to the pivoted seam on the center of the heart.
Step 4: Sew two pieces together
Pin the two pieces right sides together, making sure the seams line up where you stopped sewing at the curves.
Leave an opening on the straight edge of the lining near the bottom. Do not leave the opening at the bottom point, as this will make it harder to close. Instead pivot at the bottom and then sew up about two inches.
Start sewing at one side of the opening. When you reach the notch you will only sew the lining pieces together and blend your stitch into your top curve seam you sewed in step 3. Back stitch and lift up the needle and presser foot and begin sewing again at the notch of the outside fabrics, making sure to connect your new stitch to the first curved edge stitch.
Continue sewing outside pieces, pivoting at point and then doing the same technique when you reach the next notch. This can be a confusing part, so I will add a video of it.
Trim seams and clip curves, flip bag right side out
Fold the raw edges of the lining opening inward and machine sew closed or hand sew closed.
Finishing Touches
Press the bag to smooth out seams.
You can top stitch around the top of the bag if you would like
Tips for Success
Use a fabric that holds shape well to maintain the heart form.
Take your time clipping curves to avoid puckering.
If you want a larger bag, increase the pattern size proportionally, or vice versa
For a sturdier bag, add interfacing between the fabric and lining.
Pattern Pieces - Print these and tape together. Cut out heart pattern and enjoy!
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