Japanese Knot Bag

A Japanese knot bag is a simple, stylish tote with two uneven handles that loop together to close. It’s fully reversible and beginner‑friendly, making it a great project even if you’re new to sewing.

Materials

• ½ yard each of cotton fabric for the outer layer and lining

• Matching thread

• Sewing machine

• Scissors or rotary cutter

• Pins or clips

• Fabric marker or chalk

• Optional: fusible interfacing for lightweight or slippery fabrics

Preparing the Pattern

• Download or draft a knot bag pattern. You can scale it to your preferred size! Use the 1cm block to confirm correct printing size if you want to use exact measurements.

• If using a PDF, print on 11"×17" paper to avoid taping pieces together. Make sure you have mirrored pieces for both the outer fabric and the lining.

• Mark the notches that indicate where the handles begin and where the bottom curves are (about 18 cm from the base).

Cutting Your Fabric

• Fold your fabric and cut two mirrored pieces for the outer bag and two for the lining.

• If you prefer a seamless bottom, fold the seam allowance under on the pattern piece at the base and use it as a cut‑on‑fold layout. This gives you a smooth base with no bottom seam.

Sewing the Bag

• Pin and sew the tops of the handles together, making sure the outer and lining pieces are mirrored correctly. Press the seam allowance flat.

• Pin or clip the outer pieces to the lining pieces right sides together at the inner curve. Pull the fabric through the opening and topstitch the lining to the seam allowance.

• Turn the bag inside out again and sew the outer fabric side seams from the 18 cm mark, across the bottom, and up the other side using a 1.5 cm seam allowance. Repeat for the lining.

• Turn the lining right side out and place it inside the outer bag, matching the seams by pulling the fabric through the handle openings.

• Pin or clip around the top edges and handle openings. Sew around the entire top with a 1.5 cm seam allowance.

Finishing Touches

• Fold the raw edges of the handles under about ¼" and press.

• Topstitch around the handles (about ⅛") to secure the lining and give the bag a clean, crisp finish.

• Press all seams so the bag lays nicely and the handles loop together smoothly.

Beginner Tips

• Stick to 100% cotton for your first bag. It’s easier to cut and sew, especially around curves.

• Add interfacing if your fabric is soft, thin, or slippery.

• Sew slowly around curves; using the handwheel gives you more control.

• Have fun with fabric combinations! the bag is basically reversible, so both sides matter.

Finished Bag

To close the bag, slip the longer handle through the shorter one. The result is a secure, compact tote that works beautifully as a purse, project bag, or everyday carry.