Sew a Tote Bag with a Recessed Zipper

Zipper Sections

Sewn Zipper Section

Debbie Colgrove, Licensed to About.com

• Place the zipper right side down on a 24" edge of one of the 3" X 24" pieces, aligning the edge of the zipper with the edge of the fabric.
• Using a 1/4" seam allowance, sew the zipper tape to the fabric.
• Repeat using the other 3" X 24" piece on the opposite zipper tape.
• Place the right side of a lining piece on the zipper, sandwiching the zipper between the fabrics and sew the lining to the fabric with a 1/4" seam allowance.
• Repeat for the lining on the second side of the zipper.
• Sew a seam finish to the sewn edges.
• Press the zipper tape flat, pressing both layers of fabric away from the zipper.
• Top stitch the edge of the pressed edge to hold the fabric in place away from the zipper.
• Baste the edges of the fabric and lining together.

• Matterials & Cutting Directions
• Zipper Sections
• Sides and Bottom Section
• Attach the Sides and Bottom to the Sides
• Cut the Bag Top
• Prepare Bag Top
• Bag Lining
• Attach the Straps
• Reattach the Top Section
• Final Top Stitching