Clara Tote PDF Sewing Pattern

Clara is a hand held tote bag with an optional crossbody strap, and is approximately 8” (20.3cm) tall by 12” (30.5cm) wide), with a gusset approximately 4” (10cm) deep. It has a slightly recessed zipper closure, and an internal slip pocket, and two external slip pockets on each side of the gusset. Clara requires one 14” zipper and one zipper pull for the main closure, two d-rings, and one triglide and two lobster clasps for the optional crossbody strap. Rivets can be used on this project if you wish.

Pattern pieces and measurements are included for the handles and optional crossbody strap, although 1” (2.5cm) wide webbing can be substituted for these pieces at your preference.

Clara can be made in a variety of exterior bases including woven cotton, canvas and vinyl depending on the capabilities of your machine. For the lining, I would recommend cotton woven, canvas or waterproof canvas. I recommend interfacing all fabric exterior pieces in full using a medium weight woven interfacing and using a fusible foam or fleece on exterior pieces for added structure and stability. Pattern pieces are included for the latter and are slightly smaller than the main exterior pieces to minimise bulk in your seams. 

We are thrilled to have partnered with Sew Country for the video tutorial for this pattern!

This can be found on their channel - https://www.youtube.com/@Sew_Country

Please note that the download contains a printable pattern and photo tutorial. It can be printed in both A4 and borderless US letter formats. Measurements are included for rectangular pieces.

Please note, this is a printable PDF Sewing Pattern Download. You are not purchasing a finished product.

Supplies List -

Fabric measurements are approximate and allow for a slight extra to ease cutting

45” wide by 20” tall (115cm wide by 50cm tall) of Exterior Fabric 

45” wide by 20” tall (115cm wide by 50cm tall) of Interior/Lining Fabric

Optional Woven Interfacing as per above (for fabric exterior pieces)

30” wide by 20” tall (76cm wide by 50cm tall) Fusible Foam/Fleece (optional)

One 14” (35.6cm) piece of size 5 zipper tape and pull

Two 1” (2.5cm) D rings

One 1” (2.5cm) triglide/strap slider (for optional crossbody strap)

Two 1” (2.5cm) lobster clasps (for optional crossbody strap)

Rivets at your preference

1” (2.5cm) wide webbing for strap, strap bar, or side tab substitution at your preference

For the strap: (please use your preferred length)

56”-60” (142-152cm) x 4” (10cm) exterior fabric OR 56”-60” (142-152cm) of 1” (2.5cm) webbing