ELOISE Bag – Beginner Sewing Pattern

Want to start sewing but not sure where to begin? The ELOISE Bag Sewing Pattern is the perfect first project. With clear, easy-to-follow instructions you'll sew a roomy, structured tote that's both practical and stylish — and feel properly proud knowing you made it yourself.

ELOISE isn't just an open tote. It closes with a magnetic fastener so your things stay put, and boxed corners give it a flat base and real depth, so it stands up rather than slumping. It's roomy enough for books, groceries, craft supplies or your daily essentials.

Quick Facts (At a Glance)

  • Finished Size: Approximately 35cm wide x 44cm top to bottom (including the handles)
  • Closure: Magnetic fastener
  • Skill Level: Perfect for Beginners
  • Format: Digital PDF Download

Materials Required

  • Outer Fabric: 1m medium weight cotton of your choice
  • Lining Fabric: 1m lining fabric of your choice
  • Fastening: One magnetic fastener
  • Interfacing: Optional — added to the main outer fabric if you'd like more structure
  • Essential Tools: Sewing machine, iron for pressing, clips and pins, and coordinating thread

What You Will Learn / Techniques

  • Cutting on the Fold: Place the template on the fold and draw round it — remembering the box corner cut-outs along the bottom edge.
  • Joining Outer and Lining: Sew around both curved edges with a ¼" seam, then snip the curves so the finished bag sits beautifully.
  • Turning Through the Handle: A neat trick — the whole bag turns right side out through the handle opening.
  • Fitting a Magnetic Fastener: Measure 3cm down from the top of the seam, mark through the backing plate, and cut through the lining only before pushing the legs through and folding them down.
  • Boxing the Corners: Open out the cut-outs, pinch so the seam lines up with the side crease, and sew across — giving the bag a flat, stable base.
  • Finishing: Turn through the gap left in the lining, close it, press, then top-stitch around each side of the handle.

Why You'll Love This Pattern

  • Beginner-friendly — no sewing experience needed
  • Closes securely with a magnetic fastener
  • Boxed corners give it a flat base and proper depth
  • A quick, satisfying project you can finish in a weekend
  • Roomy and reusable — a tote you'll genuinely use every day
  • A perfect gift idea for anyone learning to sew

Full-colour step-by-step photographs, our trademark 'Easy to Follow Instructions' and full-size reusable templates are included, plus a free video tutorial on our YouTube channel to follow along with.

Start your sewing journey today — and make your very first bag one to be proud of.

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