DIY Utility Tote: How to Make a Sturdy Utility Tote

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Everyone needs a utility tote. These durable, large totes hold their shape and stay open, making it easy to load groceries, pack essentials, store toys and games, and more. Instead of buying a mass-produced tote, why not make your own? You can customize the fabric color, webbing handles and size, making a utility tote that fits your needs. Join us for this fun and easy bag tutorial. You’ll find the complete list of tools and materials below the video. Order your supplies and let’s make a utility tote!

Materials List:

  • DuraWax™ Heavy Waxed Canvas Cotton Duck 12 oz. Cloud Grey 57" Fabric #124340 — 3 yds.
  • Black Heavy Duty Polypropylene Webbing #PPHDBK — 10 ft.
  • Dacron® Supercruise 10.4 oz. White Sailcloth 54" #100209 — 1 yd.
  • Black Tex 90 Thread

Tools List:

  • Sailrite® Clear Acrylic Ruler 6" x 24" #102400
  • Chalk Pencil Cartridge Set #121669
  • Tape Measure 120" #102986
  • Scratch Awl Yellow #235411
  • Small Fabric/Leather Clips (50 pack) #123121
  • Multiuse Pins 1-1/2" (600 pack) #123195
  • Kai Professional Stainless Steel 9" Scissors #125662
  • Sailrite® Battery Operated Thread Burner #122432
  • Sailrite® Ultrafeed® LSZ Walking Foot Sewing Machine (110V) #311602

Fabric choice is a key factor in making a sturdy tote that holds its shape. We used DuraWax™ Heavy Waxed Canvas for the main fabric. To keep the sides of the tote stiff and to prevent them from collapsing inward, we sandwiched a layer of Dacron® sailcloth between the DuraWax layers for extra rigidity and stability. Lastly, we added webbing handles to the top and sides of the tote so you can carry it in two different ways.

This is an easy afternoon DIY. It’s a great beginner project that will boost your confidence and teach you some new sewing techniques. You’ll learn how to sew fabric panels together, how to sew webbing handles, how to topstitch and more.

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What will you store in your utility tote? 

You’ll find everything you need to make this tote — and more! — at Sailrite. We’re your one-stop shop for quality fabrics, foam, notions, tools and sewing machines. Whatever you make, we’ve got what you’re looking for. 

Did you enjoy this DIY tutorial? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below. And if you have ideas for other sewing projects, leave those suggestions below as well.

Looking for more project inspiration? Our DIY Projects section is overflowing with free sewing tutorials and resources. Whether you’re a bag maker, leatherworker, upholsterer, canvasworker or sailmaker, we have professional-quality project videos and tutorials. Our DIYs range from quick and easy beginner projects to full boat overhauls and RV makeovers.