Tote bags were initially mainly used by brands to advertise themselves and promote sustainability (as an alternative to plastic bags). Nowadays, however, tote bags can be seen everywhere, out on the street, in a range of different styles, and can be adapted to any situation. This book gives you an easy pattern for making a basic tote bag, as well as, above all, twenty ideas for personalizing it to your taste and requirements. If you do not fancy the sewing part, it is very easy to buy your own plain tote bags. Then all you have to do is add your own personal touch! You can use different techniques to make the bag (or bags!) that suit your fancy: embroidery, painting, dyeing, transfers, boutis (French quilting), stamping, etc. And although each project has been assigned a particular level of difficulty, all are well within reach of even the most absolute beginner.

Sonia Lucano writes widely on crafts and interior design. She is the author of numerous books on the subject, including Interior Inspiration Scandinavia, also published by Thames & Hudson.