Make the Bag

USE HEAVY DUTY FABRIC (not lightweight). Cut 2 pieces of cloth 15" x 19" allowing 1/2" for seams on sides and bottom and 2 1/2" hem at the top. This will give the required finished size 14" x 16".

Place the two 15" x 19" pieces of cloth together, right sides together, and sew a 1/2" seam down one side across the bottom and up the other side, leaving the top open.

Turn the bag so the seam is inside the bag.

Turn under 1/2" of the top edge and stitch.

Turn under 2" at the top to form a hem and stitch.

Make the Handles

For handles cut 2 pieces 4" x 23".

Fold in half the length of one of the 4" x 23" pieces with right sides together. Stitch with a 1/2" seam allowance and turn the seam to the inside.

Repeat with the second piece of cloth.

Place one handle at the top of the bag, turning under 1/2" raw edge of the material and secure by stitching. Repeat with the other piece of cloth making the handle on the opposite side of the bag.

Optional Closure

Closures are optional and may be done with buttons, snaps or Velcro.

When using Velcro, stitch small pieces of Velcro near the top center inside of the bag, Velcro loops on one side, Velcro hooks on the other.