Learn how to sew your own beach bags and tote bags with these fun and practical sewing projects. Whether you’re heading to the beach, running errands, or just need a go-to bag for everyday use, a handmade tote is one of those projects you’ll use again and again.

I always find that once I make one bag, I start thinking about the next one—maybe a bigger one, one with more pockets, or one that uses up a stack of fabric I’ve been holding onto. Bags are a great way to play with different fabrics, try new techniques, and actually finish something you’ll use.

11 Beach Tote Bag Tutorials

In this collection, you’ll find a mix of beach bags and tote tutorials—some are quick and simple, while others include extra features like pockets, zippers, or sturdy straps. They’re perfect for using your stash and making something that fits exactly what you need.

Take a look through these ideas and find a bag that’s just right for your next sewing project.

Extra Large Screen Bag

The style of this beach tote bag pattern is over the shoulder with screen fabric on both sides of the bag in the middle. The bottom of the bag is where I used my UFO Quilt block.

Beach Bag DIY with a Towel

Beach bag by Sew Chatty– uses a towel! This would be great for holding all those sandy things.

Tie Dyed Beach Bag

 Beach Tote by The Sewing Loft. Have some extra fun with this project – dying your fabric prior to sewing it.

Summertime Beach Bag

Summer Time Beach Tote by Crazy Little Projects

Mesh Beach Bag Tutorial

 Mesh Beach Bag by Obsessive crafting disorder

Giant Beach Bag

You will be able to fit your picnic, blanket, towels, sand toys and more into this bad boy for a day at the beach. For a little extra personality and usage, I added pockets on each side. Giant Beach Bag Tutorial by Muse of the Morning

Charm Pack Beach Bag

This bag has side pockets – and uses 5 inch fabric squares. Either use a charm pack you bought, or make your collection from your stash. Charm Pack Beach Bag by My Patchwork

Many Pockets Bag

There is plenty of pockets for all the things that you need at the beach. Pocket Beach tote by Fish Sticks Design

The Fabric Used to Make the DIY Beach Bag

The bag features one small interior pocket for your phone or sunglasses. I did not include any other pockets. It has been my experience that large pockets are just places to lose things. This is a great project for showing off a beautiful collection of fabrics.

Beach Tote with Rope Straps

The bag is a simple tote bag, with one full-width pocket that is divided into 3 sections. If you want more pockets, just repeat the pocket directions for the other side of the bag! The fun rope handles are simply threaded through grommets and knotted. I’ve included detailed directions for attaching the grommets, and a simple alternative (button holes) if you prefer.

DIY Beach Tote Tutorial

Sunscreen. Hat. Towel. Sunglasses. Water. And don’t forget your new favorite book. Make a splash at the beach or pool with a colorful, roomy canvas bag – just the thing you need to carry all your necessities in – for a fun day in the sun!

Sew Easy Big Tote Bag – free sewing tutorial

Sew a big quilted tote bag with beautiful details that is super easy to sew. This DIY bag pattern has an attached lining and simple French seams so there are no raw edges on the inside.

There is a pretty good variety up there to choose from- canvas, mesh …most of them large enough for a few towels or two. I am thinking we are ready to head out in style! A great way to keep it cheap and quick- use vintage fabric that you have picked up while thrifting. Especially for the lining.

You want to use fabric that can be wash, or at least wiped down after a few uses. If you are anything like me your suntan lotion will leak all over, so being able to wash is really a must. The tutorials are easy patterns for beginners too- nothing too difficult that you can’t tackle.

I also find that the sand will beat up anything- so use fabric that can handle the wear and tear of heaving chemicals or gritty sand.

More Bag Tutorials and Patterns

Summer bags to sew and haul your stuff in

Summer project for kids to make

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