How to Make a Leather Tote

Crafting your own leather tote bag is both a rewarding and creative experience. Not only do you get to design a bag that perfectly fits your needs and style, but you also get the satisfaction of carrying a handmade accessory wherever you go. With a bit of patience, the right materials, and careful guidance, even beginners can achieve professional results.

A leather tote is a timeless piece—practical for everyday use and stylish for any occasion. In this step-by-step guide on how to make a leather tote, you’ll discover everything you need to know, from gathering materials to finishing techniques. Follow along, and you’ll be ready to showcase your very own handmade leather tote in no time.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before you begin, gathering all necessary tools and materials will set you up for a smooth crafting process. Investing in quality items ensures your leather tote will be durable and visually appealing. Here’s what you will need:

• Full-grain or top-grain leather (around 3–4oz weight is ideal for totes)
• Leather cutting mat
• Rotary cutter or sharp utility knife
• Metal ruler or measuring tape
• Leather edge beveler
• Stitching groover and pricking irons
• Waxed thread and leather needles
• Rivets and a rivet setter
• Edge burnishing tool
• Mallet
• Leather punch
• Contact cement or leather glue
• Clips or masking tape
• Pencil or fabric chalk
• Optional: leather dye, conditioner, and lining fabric

With these tools assembled, you’ll be ready to move step by step through the project, confident that you can handle each part of the process without unnecessary interruptions.

8 Simple Step-By-Step Guidelines on How to Make a Leather Tote

Step 1: Choose and Prepare Your Leather

The first step to successfully making a leather tote is selecting the right type of leather. Choose a piece that suits the desired texture and firmness, often opting for full-grain or top-grain leather, which offers durability and a classic look. Place your leather on a flat surface and inspect it for blemishes, marking any sections you need to avoid when cutting.

Once you’ve chosen your leather, let it rest flat so it loses any creases from storage. Gently brush away dust or debris and, if necessary, treat it with a leather conditioner. This will keep the material flexible and looking its best, ensuring clean cuts and a smoother crafting experience.

Step 2: Measure and Cut the Leather Pieces

Accurate measurements are essential for a well-proportioned tote. Using a metal ruler or measuring tape, mark out the main body, straps, and any additional pockets you wish to include. A standard tote often measures about 15″ x 13″ for the main panel, but you can customize as desired. Mark your outlines using a light pencil or chalk so lines can be removed or hidden during assembly.

Use a rotary cutter or utility knife to make clean, straight cuts along your markings. Take your time on this step; uneven edges are much more noticeable once the bag is assembled. Double-check that opposing panels are symmetrical and that straps match in width and length. Completing this step precisely sets a strong foundation for the rest of your tote.

Step 3: Punch Holes for Stitching

After cutting your leather pieces, you’ll need to punch stitching holes in preparation for assembly. Use a stitching groover to mark evenly spaced stitching lines, usually about 1/8″ from the edges. Next, place your pricking irons along the grooved line and tap them gently with a mallet to create uniform holes.

Be consistent and patient; tidy holes make sewing much easier and more aesthetically pleasing. If adding straps or pockets, align those to the body panel and punch corresponding holes so the joints are sturdy and the final bag looks professional. Take a moment to ensure all components are properly aligned before moving forward.

Step 4: Attach and Sew Pockets

If your design includes exterior or interior pockets, this is the time to fasten them. Apply a small amount of contact cement or leather glue to attach the pocket panels to the tote’s main body. Use clips or masking tape to hold them in place as the adhesive sets.

Once secured, stitch the pockets into position using strong waxed thread and leather needles. Saddle stitching, a method that uses two needles and produces a durable result, is recommended. Sew slowly and carefully, making sure your stitches are straight and evenly spaced for a neat and attractive appearance.

Step 5: Assemble the Tote Body

With pockets in place, it’s time to join the main panels of your tote. Apply contact cement or leather glue along the side and bottom edges where the panels will meet. Affix the front and back pieces together (wrong sides facing in), ensuring careful alignment so corners and edges match up.

After the glue has set, stitch the panels together using your pre-punched holes and the saddle stitch technique. Begin at one bottom corner and work your way around to the other, pulling the stitches tight for a strong seam. This stage gives your tote its basic shape and structure.

Step 6: Prepare and Attach the Straps

Straps should be sturdy yet comfortable to hold. Cut two strips of leather to your desired length and width—typically around 24–26″ long and 1–1.5″ wide. If you want a reinforced handle, fold and glue each strap in half lengthwise before sewing the edges together.

Mark the placement of your straps on the tote body and punch holes through both the handles and tote panel where they will attach. Use rivets and a setter to secure the handles; this not only ensures strength but also gives a professional look. Check that both straps are securely attached and even before proceeding.

Step 7: Burnish Edges and Add Finishing Touches

Smooth, polished edges are a hallmark of a well-made leather bag. Use an edge beveler to round off sharp corners and then run an edge burnisher along all exposed sides, using water or a special burnishing gum for best results. This process helps prevent fraying and makes the tote comfortable to hold.

Now is also the time to dye your leather if desired. If using dye, apply it evenly and let it cure properly before progressing. Once all edges are burnished and any dye or finish is dry, your tote will have a refined and elegant appearance, ready for use.

Step 8: Inspect and Condition Your Tote

Give your completed tote a thorough inspection, checking all seams, edges, and hardware for security and neatness. Make any necessary touch-ups on stitching or edges to ensure a finished look. Test each component gently to confirm the bag’s durability.

Finally, finish your tote by conditioning the leather. Apply a small amount of leather conditioner with a clean, soft cloth, working it into all surfaces. This protects the leather and gives your bag an attractive sheen. Your handmade leather tote is now ready to accompany you wherever life takes you.

Following these steps on how to make a leather tote can also be applied to create other leather accessories such as wallets, belts, and even shoes. The skills and techniques learned from making a leather tote can be used to explore and experiment with different designs and styles, allowing you to create unique and personalized pieces.

Additional Tips

• Always work on a clean, steady surface to avoid damaging the leather or losing small tools.
• If you’re new to leatherwork, practice your stitching and cutting techniques on scrap pieces before starting your actual tote.
• Take your time at every stage—precision ensures a professional-looking result and avoids unnecessary waste.
• Consider adding a fabric lining for extra style and function; this can be sewn in before the final assembly of the tote.
• Keep your leather well-conditioned with periodic applications of conditioner, especially if you use the bag regularly.
• Don’t be afraid to personalize your tote—stamping, embossing, or dyeing adds a unique touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How Do I Choose the Best Leather for Tote Bags?

Selecting the right leather is essential for creating a durable and attractive tote bag. Full-grain or top-grain leather is often preferred because it ages beautifully and withstands daily use. Check for a piece that is free from unwanted blemishes and is the appropriate thickness (around 3–4oz is ideal for tote bags). The right leather will make cutting, stitching, and finishing easier and result in a higher-quality finished product.

When choosing leather, also consider color and finish. Some leathers come pre-dyed, while others you can dye yourself for a custom look. Invest in leather from reputable suppliers to ensure consistency and a good working experience. Test the leather’s flexibility and strength by gently bending a small section before purchasing.

Q2: What If I Don’t Have Specialized Leatherworking Tools?

While having dedicated leatherworking tools helps achieve a polished result, it’s possible to substitute in some regular household items for your first project. For instance, a sharp craft knife can work in place of a rotary cutter, and a sturdy thumbtack or pin can sometimes create holes if you don’t have a leather punch.

However, investing in a few key tools like needles, strong thread, and a ruler can make a big difference, both in ease and quality of work. As you gain experience and confidence, you might gradually add specialized tools to expand your skills. Start simple, and upgrade as your interest in leather crafting grows.

Q3: How Can I Ensure My Stitches Are Even and Strong?

Even strong stitches are crucial for both appearance and durability. Using a stitching groover and pricking irons helps you create consistent lines and perfectly spaced holes, setting you up for reliable saddle stitching. If you don’t have these tools, carefully marking your stitches and measuring spacing with a ruler can work for beginners.

Make sure to pull your thread tightly but not so tightly that it puckers the leather. Take your time, especially if you’re new to hand-stitching, and inspect your progress as you go. Well-executed stitches hold the bag together and demonstrate both skill and attention to detail.

Conclusion

Creating your own leather tote is an incredibly fulfilling project that blends craftsmanship and creativity. With careful selection of materials, patience through each step, and a diligent approach, you end up with a custom piece that reflects your personal flair. Whether you keep it for yourself or give it as a thoughtful gift, a handmade leather tote is sure to become a treasured accessory.

Remember that imperfections are often what make a handmade item special—each mark and stitch adding character and telling a story. Don’t be discouraged by challenges along the way; as your skills grow with each project, so does your confidence and satisfaction. Thanks for reading this article on how to make a leather tote.