Rainbow RikRak Tote Bag — Tabitha Sewer

I'm so excited to share my latest project with you: a medium-sized canvas tote bag adorned with vibrant multi-colored rik rak trim on the handles. This delightful addition not only makes the bag stand out but also showcases my absolute obsession with JOANN’s trim aisle!

Let me tell you, their trim aisle is a crafter's paradise! The variety and quality of trims available are incredible, and the rik rak trims, in particular, add such a fun and stylish detail to any project.

MATERIALS

1/2 yard Canvas Fabric

4 Colors of Jumbo RikRak (1 pk each)

Blue, Green, Orange, Pink

2.75 yards 1” Wide Cotton Wedding

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cutting the Fabric

Start by cutting your canvas fabric into two rectangles, each measuring 14” x 17” Cut 2” squares in the corners of your fabric. These will form the front and back of your tote bag. Cut cotton webbing in half. You should have two straps.

2. Sewing the Bag

Place the two fabric pieces right sides together. Pin along the sides and bottom edges, leaving the top edge open. Sew around the pinned edges with a 1/2 inch seam allowance. Pinch the side seam and bottom seam together and sew ½ inch seam allowance for each corner. After sewing, turn the bag right side out and press the seams.

3. Adding the Rikrak Trim

Now for the fun part – adding the rik rak trim! Pin the multi-colored rikrak trim along the edge of the entire length of each handle. Sew the trim in place with a straight stitch. Sew on both edges of the straps. The playful waves of the rik rak add such a fun touch and elevate the entire look of the bag.

4. Attaching the Handles

Pin the handles to the top edge of the bag, aligning the ends with the inside edges of the bag’s sides. Ensure the handles are evenly spaced and then sew them in place with a reinforced stitch for extra durability.

5. Finishing Touches

To give your tote bag a neat finish, fold the top edge of the bag over by 1/2 inch, then fold it over again by 1 inch. Press the fold and sew around the top edge of the bag to create a clean hem.

This canvas tote bag project is not only functional but also a fantastic way to express your creativity. The multi-colored rik rak trim from JOANN adds a vibrant and playful detail that truly makes the bag special. Every time I stroll through JOANN’s trim aisle, I’m inspired by the endless possibilities these trims offer.

I hope you enjoy making this tote bag as much as I did! Be sure to share your finished projects with me on social media and let me know how you’ve used JOANN’s fabulous trims in your own creations.

Happy sewing!