Tote & Purse Patterns

If you are a sewist, an artist, a parent or caregiver, teacher, student, or tutor, 4-H leader, youth director, camp counselor–or just a busy human being–there is a good chance that you haul around a lot of stuff. No doubt, some of that stuff goes into a tote bag. The beauty of sewing your own bag rather than buying a bag is that you can customize it! You can have a personalized bag that's the perfect size and shape for your stuff, pockets where you want them, and fabric that you choose.

Missouri Star offers a wide assortment of tote bag patterns. Maybe you need a tote bag pattern for a BIG tote because you have a lot of stuff to haul. You might like the Everything & More Bag by Missouri Star demonstrated below. If you need a medium size tote, check out the Easy Quilted Zipper Tote by Missouri Star and watch Misty’s tutorial for this bag. Many schools and public venues are requiring guests to use clear totes when they attend events. Missouri Star has created a pattern for a Clear Vinyl Tote Bag that Misty demonstrates in this video. All of these are tote bag patterns with pockets.

Maybe you would like to make your own purse. Well, lucky you! We have many fabulous purse patterns for sale! Do you want a handbag? A shoulder bag? A crossbody bag? What style do you like–bucket, hobo, satchel, wristlet? We have purse patterns for beginners and pros. And we offer purse patterns designed for the popular new cork fabric. We sell purse kits that contain the hardware needed for certain bags. For other bags, these are sold as sets–the purse kits and patterns together. You may want to try a wallet pattern; we offer several options for those, too.

We think it’s important for you to choose a pattern that is close to your ideal bag and then change it to suit your needs. Does the pattern call for one pocket, but you want two? Add another! Are there no pockets? Add some! Do you want the bag an inch larger or smaller or taller? Adjust the pattern! Of course, changes you make will involve some planning and math; make sure you have enough fabric if you start adding size and pockets to your bag.

The bag you carry should fulfill a useful function. But there is no reason why it can’t also be a statement of fashion or personal expression. Make your bag your own, and OWN your bag! Missouri Star can help with patterns and fabrics that suit your style.