Make the Charlie Reusable Grocery Bag (19727 Views)

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  11

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  Step 1 of 11

  Assemble pattern.

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  Step 2 of 11

  Separate pattern pieces. Cut bag pattern down "CUT ON FOLD" line. Lay on (folded, when needed) fabric, pin, and cut.

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  Step 3 of 11

  You should have two bag pieces which have been cut on the fold, and one smaller piece for the bag's pouch.

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  Step 4 of 11

  Overlock all edges. Do not trim any off of the straight edges. On the handles' curved edges, trim off the 5/8'' seam allowance.

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  Step 5 of 11

  Sew the pouch. Fold at notches; the shortest flap goes in the center, the longest on the top. Stitch the sides.

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  Step 6 of 11

  Sew the tops of the handles together. These are flat felled seams. See our French and Flat-Felled Seams How To for further instructions.

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  Step 7 of 11

  Sew side seams, wrong side together. On one seam, place the pouch according to the notches. The pouch's opening should face toward bag's center, away from the seam allowance.

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  Step 8 of 11

  Fold outer bottom corners in at notches, then sew bag bottom.

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  Step 9 of 11

  Turn bag right side out and admire your pretty handiwork.

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  Step 10 of 11

  Now, fold bag into its pouch, throw it in your purse, and say goodbye to all those pesky plastic bags.

• Step 11 of 11

  Advanced method:

  For advanced sewers and a sturdier, prettier bag, you can make this bag with a facing and french seams all around. Just use the main pattern piece for the facing pieces, cutting a couple of inches down the side seam. Skip the overlocking.