Preparation: Seam allowances for this project are 1/2 inches (1.25 cm) unless otherwise stated. If you are finishing the interior with bias tape, apply it to the seams as you are assembling the pieces. If you do not wish to bind your seams with bias tape, consider cutting out your pieces with pinking shears to prevent excessive fraying.

Measure and cut the following pieces from your fabric:

• 2 zipper panels 36 inches x 7 inches (90 cm x 18 cm),
• 1 bottom panel 13 inches x 38 inches (33 cm x 95 cm), two side panels 16 in x 21 in (40.5 cm x 55 cm).
• Use the edge of a dinner plate to mark a curved edge on the upper left and right corners of the side panels. Trim away corners.
• Cut one outer pocket panel (optional) 10 inches x 21 inches (25 cm x 55 cm).

If you are adding the outer pocket, apply bias tape to the top edge, then baste it into place along the sides and bottom edge of one of the side panels.

Begin by installing zipper centered along the 36-inches (90-cm) edge of the zipper panels. If installing a zipper is new to you, check out the this tutorial on how to install a conventional zipper.

Once your zipper is installed, press panel flat to smooth folded edge and create crisp edge along zipper opening. Place the zippered panel face down on the bottom panel (13 inches x 38 inches/33 cm x 95 cm) so that right sides are facing and shorter edges are matched. Pin along one of the shorter edges and stitch together.

Next, with right sides facing, center and pin the zippered panel along the top curved edge of the first of the side panels. Continue pinning the panel into place all along the outer edge of side panel until the short edges meet on the other side (see figure).

Stitch this seam and repeat process on the other side with second side panel. Once the sides are installed, pin remaining opening and stitch seam closed.

Turn bag right side out. Remove any basting stitches that may be showing at the seams. Center and attach leather-strap handles on either side of the bag (see figure).

This tote bag pattern is excerpted with permission from 30 Minute Sewing: What Can You Sew In Half an Hour or Less? by Heather M. Love and published by Barron's Educational Series.