How to Make a Simple Three Pocket Crossbody Bag
I needed a simple crossbody bag to take on vacation. I just wanted it to carry my phone, money and some credit cards so this simple three pocket crossbody bag was perfect. Honestly, it does not get any easier than this. This is a beginner sewing project that anyone with basic sewing skills can make. The best part of this sewing project is that it doesn’t take long to make. If you would like more handbag projects check out my handbag page here.
I used standard quilting cotton for this project but I addd some Pellon 808 for structure. This would be a perfect jeans upcycle project or you could use a canvas or home decorator weight fabric. I used what I had on hand. This post contains affiliate links that if you click on them and make a purchase I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
What you will Need: How to Make a Simple Three pocket Crossbody Bag
- I yd of outer and lining fabric
- 1/2 yd of Pellon 808 intefacing
- 2 1″ D rings
- 1 Kam Snap
- Sewing Machine
- Iron
Step 1: Cut your Fabrics
Cut one piece each of outer, lining and interfacing that measure 16 1/2″ x 18″. Cut two pieces of outer or lining fabric that measures 4″ x 2″ for the D-Ring tabs. From the outer or lining fabric cut a long piece that measures 4″ x the width of the fabric for the strap. You can make the strap longer if you like.
Step 2: Fuse the Interfacing
Using a hot iron and following the manufacturer’s instructions, fuse the interfacing to the wrong side of the outer fabric piece.
Step 3: Cut out the Corners
From one end of the outer and lining fabrics cut out the corners from each side that measure 4″ H x 5 1/2″W.
Step 4: Round the Corners
One you have cut out the corners there will be a tab left in the center. Round the corners of the tab piece. This will be the closure of the bag.
Step 5: Stitch the Outer and Lining Pieces Together
Place the outer and lining pieces right sides together. Using a 3/8″ seam allowance stitch the all the way around the two pieces leaving an opening on one side for turning. Clip the corners. Turn the piece right sides out and press.
Step 6: Topstitch
Topstitch all the way around the bag.
Step 7: Stitch Bag
Measure 2 1/2 From one side of the bag and draw a line. Fold the bag in half lengthwise lining sides together and stitch the bag together along the line you just drew. Open up the bag so that the large seam is in the center and the lining side is facing out.
Step 8: Topstitch Along the Sides
Fold the center seam into the middle of the bag and topstitch on each side . Fold the bag in half widthwise. Using wonder cups clip the two center layers together on each side.
Step 9: Create the Tabs and Strap
Create the tabs and the strap in the same way. To do this fold the pieces so that the long raw edges are folded to the center. Press. Fold in half again lengthwise to enclose the raw edges. Topstitch along the long edges to secure. Add the D-Rings to the tab pieces and fold the tab pieces in half widthwise to secure the D-Rings.
Step 10: Add the Tabs
Measure down about 1″ from the top of the bag. Insert the D-Ring tabs between the middle two layers and clip in place. Topstitch through the center layers only including the tab pieces.
Step 11: Add the Kam Snap
Measure down about 1″m from the bottom of the tab piece and place half of the Kamsnap in the center. Fold the tab over as if closing the bag and locate the spot for the other half of the snap. Insert the other half.
Step 12: Add the Strap
Insert the strap ends to the other side of the D-Ring. Double fold and stitch along the end to secure. You ave now finished your simple three pocket crossbody bag. Fill and enjoy.
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