What is a Tote Bag?

Tote bags have become an essential accessory in today's fashion and practical world. With their versatility and eco-friendly nature, they've gained popularity among people of all ages for a variety of reasons. In this article, you will learn everything there is to know about what is a tote bag, alongside its uses, how to make one, and why they are so popular in today’s shopping industry. 

 

 

 

What is a Tote Bag?

A tote bag is more than just a bag; it's a statement of style combined with functionality. At its core, a tote bag is a spacious bag, typically unfastened at the top, with two parallel handles.

These bags can be crafted from various materials, including lightweight canvas, cotton, jute, or even luxurious leather. Their designs range from plain and simple to vibrant patterns, catering to a wide array of personal tastes.

 

Uses of Tote Bags

Tote bags are the epitome of versatility, and can be used for a variety of purposes, hence why they are so popular. Their spacious design makes them perfect for grocery shopping, replacing the environmentally harmful plastic bags.

Their stylish nature allows them to transition from a shopping accessory to a fashionable handbag for formal events too. Moreover, their durability makes them an excellent choice for carrying work essentials or even gym gear.

Simple yet effective features are at the forefront of tote bag designs. If any of these features sound good to you, and you want to make more than just a statement, then a tote bag will be a worthy addition to your style. 

 

Materials Used in Tote Bags

While many associate canvas with a type of material, you should understand that canvas refers to the fabric's weave. Cotton, derived from the cotton plant, and linen, from the flax plant, are popular materials for tote bags. Historically, hemp, from the cannabis plant, was also a favoured material.

Canvas, with its historical use in sails and tents, becomes a durable material for bags when treated with a waterproof coating. Its eco-friendly nature further adds to its appeal. 

In the 21st century, we are all looking to be a little more sustainable to manage climate change, global warming, and other factors that may contribute to harming the environment. Having a reusable tote bag in your arsenal will take you one step further in reducing your carbon footprint and reducing waste production. 

 

History of the Tote Bag

The term "tote" has its roots in African history and languages, but originally it was L.L.Bean's Ice Bag in 1944 that brought the tote bag into the limelight. However, it was American designer Bonnie Cashin who transformed the tote into a fashion statement.

Today, tote bags range from affordable canvas bags to high-end luxury items, like the Hermès Himalaya Birkin bag, which once sold for a staggering $500,000.

Lastly, there is also the Strand (global phenomenon New York bookstore) that created their own tote bag too, and displayed their contact details in bold red letters along the bag. Today, tote bags by these brands are amongst the best tote bags today. 

 

If you wish to know more about the history of the tote bag, check it out now. 

 

Canvas vs. Cotton Tote Bags

While both canvas and cotton tote bags are eco-friendly and stylish, they serve different purposes, and can give you a common misconception about what is a tote bag. 

Cotton bags are softer, machine-washable, and suitable for light carrying. Canvas bags, with their tighter weave, are sturdier, can be waterproofed, and are more suitable for carrying heavier items. This does not mean that one bag is necessarily better than the other. It entirely depends on the wearer and what you wish to use your tote bag for. 

Depending on the material, it is possible to hold more weight. Canvas tote bags are more likely to hold more weight since they are sturdier and are waterproof. Cotton tote bags are more of a fashion statement, so if you are simply looking for a bag to wear when out on the town, then this design will be better for your needs.

 

How to Make Your Own Tote Bag

For those that are passionate about tote bags, crafting your own tote bag can be a rewarding experience. With basic sewing tools and a metre of cloth, you can create a personalised tote bag. The process involves cutting the fabric, sewing the sides, creating the bag's base, attaching the handles, and finally, decorating it to reflect your style.

For more in-depth detail about how to make a tote bag, follow these steps:

 

1. Begin by cutting a fabric piece measuring 33'' x 31''. Fold this fabric in half, ensuring the new dimensions are approximately 16 ½'' x 15 ½''. The bottom should be where the fold is.
   
2. From the remaining fabric, cut two straps, each 16'' long. These will act as your bag's handles. If you prefer, you can use a different durable material for the handles. Ensure the straps are of a suitable length.
   
3. At the top of your folded fabric, fold down an inch on both sides. Secure these folds with pins. Sew along these edges, about 0.5 mm away, and remember to double stitch at the start and end for added strength. Once done, remove the pins.
   
4. With the top and bottom set, it's time to stitch the sides. Align the edges and pin them together. Sew about 1 mm from the edge to close the sides.
   
5. To give your bag a more spacious bottom, you'll create a gusset. Open the corners of the bag's bottom, using the 1 mm edge as a guide, and pin them. Sew roughly 3'' across these corners. This will create a more defined base for your bag.
   
6. For the handles, measure 4'' from the ends of each strap. This ensures each strap is 4'' away from the bag's edge. Align the strap ends with the 1'' folds you made earlier and pin them in place. Do this for both sides.
   
7. Sewing the handles requires precision. Sew around the strap's edges, creating a square pattern with the thread. Then, connect the square's corners with diagonal stitches, forming an "X" inside. This ensures the handles are sturdy. Repeat for all four strap ends.
   
8. Trim any excess threads and ensure all stitches are secure. Turn the bag inside out, and voilà, your basic tote bag is ready!
   
9. Now comes the fun part: personalising your tote. Given the fabric's nature, it easily accepts ink, making it perfect for designs. Use fabric markers or iron-on decals to decorate. Alternatively, if you started with a patterned fabric, you might skip this step.

 

With these steps, you'll have a unique tote bag tailored to your style and needs!

 

Canvas Material Weights

Canvas material for tote bags comes in various weights, with 6oz being popular for basic bags and 12oz for more durable ones. The weight determines the bag's sturdiness and its intended use.

 

GMS in Tote Bags

GMS, or grams per metre squared, is a measure of fabric weight. A higher GMS indicates a heavier fabric, which can influence the tote bag's durability and use.

 

Tote Bag Size Guide

Tote bags come in various sizes, from small, medium to large. The size you choose depends on your needs, whether it's for daily errands, work, or special occasions.

 

• Small: At about 12" wide, 13" high, and 4" deep, these compact bags offer the tote look in a more manageable size.
• Medium: Typically 16" wide, 15" high, and 5" deep, these totes strike a balance between size and style, suitable for various events.
• Large: Measuring roughly 22" wide, 15" high, and 8" deep, these spacious bags are perfect for those needing to carry a lot.

Caring for Your Tote Bag

Maintaining your tote bag can ensure a longer life for it, so that you get your value for money when learning about what is a tote bag. Depending on the material, tote bags can be machine washed, hand washed, or spot cleaned. Special care is needed for waxed canvas bags to preserve their protective coating.

 

Why You Need a Tote Bag

There are countless tips about what is a tote bag, as well as reasons on why to own one. Their eco-friendliness, versatility, fashion statement, and practicality make them an invaluable accessory.

 

Are Tote Bags Unisex?

While traditionally favoured by women, the modern tote bag has seen a surge in popularity among men. Their practicality and style make them a suitable choice for everyone.

 

Shape up your business (especially if you are selling tote bags) by investing in roll up banner printing!

 

Own a Tote Bag Now

Tote bags, with their blend of functionality and style, have cemented their place in modern culture. Whether you're looking for an eco-friendly shopping bag, a stylish accessory, or a durable work bag, tote bags have got you covered. Make sure to equip your own tote bag ready for the festive season. Speaking of which, if you are running your own Christmas stall this year, be sure to check out these Christmas stall ideas. 

 

FAQs

Are tote bags suitable for heavy items?

Depending on their material and construction, tote bags can carry moderate to heavy loads.

 

Can tote bags be used for travel?

Yes, tote bags can serve as carry-on luggage or day bags for sightseeing.

Sources

Malachosky, E., (2023) Why L.L. Bean Makes the Best Tote Bag, According to Experts. Gearpatrol. [online] Available at: https://www.gearpatrol.com/style/a36635194/ll-bean-boat-and-tote/ [accessed 29/08/23] 

Strand Books. (n.d.). Home. [online] Available at: https://www.strandbooks.com/ [accessed 29/08/23]

Walsh, T. A., (n.d.) History of Tote Bag. Hozen Collection. [online] Available at: https://hozencollection.com/blogs/hozen-blog/history-of-tote-bag [accessed 29/08/23]