Tote bag: fabric requirements (chart)
Tote bag, default dimensions and options: 1.4 m (1 5/8 yd) of fabric 140 cm (55 in) wide. The tables give every size at 110, 140 and 150 cm (45, 55 and 60 in) widths; add extra for a nap, stripes or a print you want to match.
Fabric needed by size
| Main fabric | 110 cm wide (45 in) | 140 cm wide (55 in) | 150 cm wide (60 in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| default dimensions and options | 1.4 m (1 5/8 yd) | 1.4 m (1 5/8 yd) | 0.9 m (1 yd) |
Other fabrics in the project
- Lining (140 cm wide): 1.1 m (1 1/4 yd)
How these numbers are worked out
Sewly drafts the pattern at each standard size with its drafting engine, seam allowances included (1.5 cm / 5/8 in on woven fabric and 1 cm / 3/8 in on knits by default). It then lays the pieces on fabric folded selvedge to selvedge at each width, adds 8 % plus 10 cm for squaring the ends and shrinkage, and rounds up to the next 10 cm. Large plain rectangles such as waistbands are counted. The same inputs give the same figure every time: nothing here is an AI estimate. Pieces are placed as rectangles around their outlines, so the figures are cautious: an experienced cutter can sometimes nest tighter.
Frequently asked questions
How much fabric do I need for this pattern (Tote bag)?
Tote bag, default dimensions and options: 1.4 m (1 5/8 yd) of fabric 140 cm (55 in) wide.
What if my fabric is narrower or wider than 140 cm?
Tote bag, default dimensions and options: 1.4 m (1 5/8 yd) at 110 cm wide, 1.4 m (1 5/8 yd) at 140 cm and 0.9 m (1 yd) at 150 cm. Narrower fabric usually needs more length because fewer pieces fit side by side.
Do I need extra fabric for a print, a nap or stripes?
Yes. The pieces then have to face one way or line up at the seams, which wastes fabric; many sewists add roughly a tenth to a fifth of the length. Buy the extra before you cut. More on nap in the glossary.
Do these figures match the pattern's own cutting layout?
Yes. The sewing guide Sewly makes for your pattern uses the same cutting layout, with your exact measurements and options.
Keep going
Tote bag sewing pattern
Fabric yardage calculator (your own measurements)
How much fabric do I need? Reading fabric quantities
Sew a lined tote bag with boxed corners
Sew a lined tote with boxed corners: how the corner squares set the depth, fabric and interfacing amounts, handle lengths and a clean turn-through finish.