How to Crochet Granny Square Crochet Mini Tote Bag
In this upcycling tutorial, the creator demonstrates how to transform a thrifted crochet quilt into a stunning granny square tote bag. The process involves cutting panels and strips, sewing them together with a zigzag stitch for durability, and adding a lining for a polished finish. A clever trick using a stick makes turning the handles inside out easier. The creator emphasizes flexibility, encouraging viewers to eyeball measurements and adapt the design to their preference.
Completed in just two hours, the project is trendy, sustainable, and perfect as a thoughtful handmade gift. Stay inspired with this creative sewing journey!
Granny Square Tote Bag Tutorial
This tutorial demonstrates how to upcycle a thrifted crochet quilt into a trendy granny square tote bag. The creator walks viewers through each step of the sewing and assembly process, with a focus on creativity, sustainability, and simplicity. Below is a structured summary of the tutorial:
Introduction
- The creator introduces the project as part of her upcycling journey and low-waste lifestyle.
- She highlights the personal touch of handmade gifts, making this project perfect for the holiday season.
Cutting and Preparing Materials
Eyeballing Measurements
- Measurements aren’t exact but based on visual estimation, emphasizing flexibility in the project.
- The quilt’s squares serve as guides for cutting, ensuring consistent patterns.
Panels and Strips
- Materials are cut into four squares per panel for the bag’s front and back.
- Two long strips are also cut: one for the side panels and the other for the bag handles.
Creating the Lining
- The lining is prepared by cutting two panels and one strip based on the size of the crochet panels.
- The lining ensures the inside of the tote bag is neat and durable.
Sewing the Bag Panels
Attaching Panels to the Side Strip
- Sewing begins by attaching the front panel to the long side strip, pinching corners as needed.
- This process is repeated for the back panel to form the bag’s basic structure.
Using a Zigzag Stitch
- The zigzag stitch is used for the crochet quilt pieces to provide durability for stretchy, knitted materials.
- This stitch adds strength while maintaining flexibility in the fabric.
Creating and Preparing Handles
Sewing the Handles
- The long handle strip is folded in half and sewn using a zigzag stitch.
- The creator emphasizes the importance of ensuring neat, even finishes.
Turning Handles Right-Side-Out
- A simple trick involving a stick (e.g., a candlestick or bamboo stick) is demonstrated to turn the sewn handles inside-out.
- The process involves sewing one end closed, inserting the stick through the tube, and pushing the fabric out gently.
Final Handle Adjustments
- Handles are folded and trimmed evenly before being pinned to the tote bag’s front and back panels.
- Seam allowance is flexible and customizable according to preference.
Assembling the Tote Bag
Adding the Lining
- The tote bag is placed inside the lining, ensuring the wrong sides of both the bag and lining face outward.
- The lining is sewn to the bag, leaving an opening to pull the bag through and flip it right-side-out.
Finishing Touches
- A top stitch is used to close the opening and secure the bag structure.
Final Results and Conclusion
- The project is completed in approximately two hours, resulting in a trendy, sustainable granny square tote bag.
- The creator emphasizes creativity, encouraging viewers to adapt the process to their preferences.
