christmas challenge – wk 5 – tote from an ikea rug

An Ikea rug tote? That’s right. It’s so quick and easy, you can even fit it in to a crazy, chaotic Christmas schedule! Life has thrown me a few curve balls recently, so I’m just not going that “extra mile” with my decorating and preparations. Nonetheless, I’ve still managed to make a few handmade gifts for some of my special friends. And these roomy totes – made from $3.99 Ikea rugs – are my favorites. They ares not only super easy to make, but they are durable and funky and beautiful. Can you tell I love them? 

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supplies needed:

• Signe rug from Ikea (22″ x 33″, price $3.99)
• 3/4″ wide leather strap, 50″ length
• waxed cotton jewelry cording
• needle with large eye
• rotary cutter for leather 
• leather punch

step 1 – sewing

Fold the rug in half, then stitch the two side seams (twice). 

 Next, with the bag inside out, open the seam and at each bottom corner, about 3″ down from the tip, make a horizontal stitch (as shown below.) Stitch over the seam a second time for reinforcement. Do this for each of the two corners.

When you turn the bag right side out, you will see that a “bottom” has formed. 

step 2 – handles

The leather straps I purchased from Amazon measure 3/4″ wide and 50″ long. By cutting the strap in half with a rotary cutter (for leather), you will have two straps, each measuring 25″. This is perfect for one bag. 

Next, using a leather punch, make two or three holes in both ends of each strap, about 1/2″ apart.

Using waxed cotton cording (used for jewelry making), stitch the handles onto the bag. You could also use embroidery thread, but I find the waxed cording to be very strong. I spaced the handles about 8″ apart.

step 3 – embellishments

You’ve actually finished the bag now, but embellishments always add a whimsical touch. An added tassel lends a sweet Boho flavor. I decided to embroider monograms on my bags.

My head is spinning with lots of variations on this Ikea rug tote, but for now, I’m just glad I have a few gifts marked off my list. Hope you enjoyed the tutorial, and I hope you don’t let the stress of the season steal your joy. I promise I won’t.  Happy crafting!