DIY: How to Weave a Tote Bag From Yarn

In our world today tote bags are one of the most simple summer accessories and they serve many purposes. One of the advantages of having a toad bag is that they reduce the need for single-use bags.

Looking at the beautiful nature of tote bags, one would wonder how hard it could take to weave one. The truth is; from my own experience, I believe that no craft is easy. At the same time, all crafts are easy once you know the secrets and tricks behind them and you put your heart into them.

 

Without much ado, let’s dive into the step by step process of weaving a tote bag from yarn.

 

How to Weave a Tote Bag From Yarn Step By Step

Step 1: Decide on The Size of the Tote Bag

To begin with, you have to first decide the dimensions (how big or how small) you want for your tote bag. Assuming you want to weave the tote bag for someone (probably a customer), you have to ask for dimensions so that you can do it the way it is requested. However, if you are doing this for yourself then you have to give yourself a dimension, let’s say maybe 12 by 14 or 12 by 16. Whatever dimension you choose.

 

But then it doesn’t just end with picking a dimension to work with. As you’re choosing a dimension, you have to consider the materials (yarn) that you’re going to use. The reason is that the thickness of the yarn that you use can go a long way to impact the final outcome. In other words, thicker yarns will give you a tote bag with a larger size and more sturdy build. On the other hand, tinny yarns will give you a lightweight tote bag with a delicate build. 

 

Now that you understand what dimension is all about, you need to look for a frame for your weaving that will guide you and help you maintain the right shape and tension of the warp threads.

 

Step 2: Preparation of Warp Threads (Vertical Threads) 

The next thing to do is to carefully measure long yarns for warp threads. When measuring the long lengths of yarns, you have to be calculative of the width of your tote bag because the width of your tote bag will determine the number of wrap threads to be used. For you to have a tight and even weave, artisans mostly use 30-40 wrap threads per foot width. 

 

After that is done, pick up your frame and stretch your wrap threads over, securing one end of the wrap threads to the frame’s top and the other end to the frame’s bottom. As you do that, make sure that they are taut and spaced evenly. To avoid falling off, you can use clips, or small nails to securely hold the wrap threads. 

 

Assuming you’re not using a frame, you can improvise by making use of two solid surfaces (e.g. chairs and tables) to secure the threads. However, you should have it at the back of your mind that the process might be more challenging if you are not using a frame because it would be harder for you to maintain consistent tension. 

 

Step 3: Weaving the Weft Threads (Horizontal Threads)

What first comes to mind when you want to weave a tote bag is the idea that you want your bag to stand out and be visually appealing. As such you have to pick a yarn color in contrast to the warp. Ensure that the color you chose is visually appealing and will create an interesting pattern to make your work stand out.

 

Next, pick a side to begin with and weave the weft thread across the bag’s width over and under the warp threads. While you weave, let there be a small space or gap between each weft thread so that your weave will be open and flexible.

 

As you continue to weave, use a weaving comb or your fingers to tightly push the weft threads against the previous row in order to create a compact weave. This step is equally important because it will help you to maintain the tension and shape of the bag.  All you have to do is continue weaving in the same pattern with each row (alternating the over-under pattern). As long as you do this and do it well, you’re sure to end up with that classic basket-weave look that is common to handwoven tote bags. 

 

Step 4: Maintaining The Tension

You see, the issue of maintaining tession cannot be overstated when weaving tote bags and crossbody bags. If you want to achieve a uniform weave, you have to ensure that the warp threads are kept taut and the weft threads are evenly spaced while maintaining tension. As you weave, check periodically to make sure that the edges are straight and even. If you notice any abnormalities you can keep the edges aligned by adjusting the warp threads. This periodic check and adjustment will help you maintain the bag’s rectangular shape. 

 

Step 5: Shaping of The Bag

At this point, I want to assume that you have woven enough rows and attained your desired height. If so, all you need to do now is to shape your bag! You have to carefully fold the warp threads at the top and bottom edges in order to create a clean and finished look. Next on, you have to create neat edges by folding the warp threads over, and then secure the edges that you have folded using a tapestry needle and yarn. After successfully creating your desired shape, you can keep the shape in place by weaving the threads in and out to hold it. 

 

Assuming you did the entire process with a frame, you can now remove the completed weaving from the frame but make sure you’re careful enough so as not to spoil what you’ve done. After removing the weaving, you can now fold and secure the edges so that you can easily work on shaping it.

 

Step 6: Crafting Handles For Your Handwoven Bag

This step is the second to the last step on this list and it’s an optional step. You can decide to add handles to your bag or not add handles. If you decide to add handles, you have two choices to choose from. The first choice is to weave the handles into the bag and the second choice is to attach the handles separately. 

 

For the former, you can weave the handle into the bag using thicker yarn or cord and make the long enough on each side to make the handles. Carefully weave the handles into the bag in such a way that they will not come loose. For the latter, you may decide to make use of ready-made handles and simply attach them to the tip of your tote bag.

 

Step 7: Finishing Touches

Now that you have successfully completed the handwoven bag process, get hold of sharp scissors and carefully check for and trim frayed threads or any loose ends. However, you should be careful enough not to cut into woven fabric. After trimming, you can give your tote bag a light steaming to produce a more polished finish and keep the shape intact. After all said is done, you may choose to decorate your handwoven bag with decorations like pom-poms, tassels, or embroidered designs. This will add more aesthetics and uniqueness to your handwoven tote bag.

 

Conclusion

I believe that by now you have known how to weave a tote bag from yarn. To weave a tote bag from yarn is a straightforward process. All you need is to understand the basics and steps that are involved. Trust me, if you get the basics, you will discover that weaving a tote bag is an easy process.