A boxed tote has a flat base, so it stands up and holds more than a plain flat bag. It is a good early sewing project because the seams are straight.
Choose your fabric
Medium to heavy cotton, canvas or denim works well. Wash and press it first so it shrinks before you cut.
Cut the pieces
You need two main panels with a notch at each bottom corner, plus two straps. Our template adds seam allowance and extra at the top for the hem.
Sew the bag
Place the panels right sides together. Sew the sides and bottom, leaving the corner notches open. Press the seams open.
Box the corners
Pinch one notch so the side seam sits on top of the bottom seam. Sew straight across. Repeat on the other corner. The width of the notch sets the depth of the bag.
Add the straps
Press each strap into quarters and topstitch both long edges. Tuck the ends under the top hem, then stitch a small box on each strap end. This is where a bag fails first, so reinforce it well.
Print a template at your size in the tote bag maker. Our guide to printing PDF patterns explains how to keep the scale correct.