Easy Reversible Trick-or-Treat Bag
In this tutorial, we’re making a reversible Trick or Treat bag that’s simple, beginner-friendly, and totally customizable! You’ll learn how to sew a fabric bag using just three fabrics, one for the exterior, one for the lining, and one for the handles — with no interfacing, no batting, and no stress.
Want to make it sturdier? I’ll show you how to quilt your outer layer for structure, and share pro tips for adding pockets, resizing, and even using up panels or orphan blocks to create something unique. Whether you’re brand new to sewing or a seasoned quilter looking for a quick win, this project is fast, fun, and perfect for Halloween (or anytime you need a cute tote!).
Materials Needed:
1/2 yard of exterior fabric
1/2 yard of interior fabric
1/8 yard of fabric for handles (approximately 4-5 inches wide)
Fabric scissors, ruler, and clips
Sewing machine
Step 1: Cutting the Fabric
Exterior Fabric: Cut a 17" x 17" square of fabric for the exterior. If you’re using directional fabric (like prints), make sure the design is placed the way you want it.
Interior Fabric: Cut another 17" x 17" square for the interior.
Handles: Cut a 4-inch wide strip of fabric from salvage to salvage (approximately 1/8 of a yard). You’ll need two strips, each about 20" in length.
Step 2: Cutting the Handle Fabric
Cut the fabric to 4 inches wide. If you're using fabric that has a pattern, make sure the print is centered. This step is easy if you ask your fabric store for “an eighth of a yard.”
Step 3: Preparing the Handle
Fold each handle strip in half, and press it flat.
Open the strip and fold each raw edge in toward the center fold. Press those folds, then fold the fabric in half again, encasing the raw edges inside. Now, you have your handle straps ready!
Step 4: Creating the Bag Panels
Take both your exterior and interior fabric pieces and make sure they’re folded in half so that the folded edges face you.
For a centered pattern (like a cameo), arrange the fabric so that the printed design is positioned where you want it to appear on the bag.
Cut the fabric to size, ensuring the panel measurements are 17" by 17". This is the size for both the exterior and interior fabric.
Step 5: Piecing the Exterior
For a special design, like featuring a specific print in the center, you can sew a border around the fabric to make it larger than needed, then trim it down to size.
This is an optional step to make the bag more personal and custom.
Step 6: Sewing the Panels Together
Sew together the exterior and interior fabric panels, ensuring that the raw edges are lined up.
Afterward, press the seams away from the center panel for a cleaner look.
Step 7: Boxing the Corners
To give the bag some depth, box the corners. Measure 2 inches from the bottom corner on both exterior and interior fabrics. Draw a line and cut along the line.
Repeat this for all four corners. This will create the bottom of the bag and allow it to stand up.
Step 8: Assembling the Bag
Take the two sewn panels (one exterior and one interior) and put them right sides together.
Align the seams and clip them in place.
Sew along the sides, across the bottom, and leave the top open.
Repeat the same steps for the interior fabric, ensuring you do not leave an opening for turning.
Step 9: Inserting the Handles
Now it's time to insert the handle straps. For each side of the bag, fold the strap in half and pin it at the center point of the bag.
Make sure the strap is oriented correctly, and the raw edges align with the edge of the fabric. Pin and sew them in place.
Step 10: Turning the Bag
After sewing the sides and bottom, turn the bag right-side-out using the top opening.
Once it’s turned, you should see a fully assembled bag with handles attached. Press the seams for a neat finish.
Step 11: Finishing Touches
Close the top opening by either folding the seam in or sewing it shut.
For a decorative touch and added durability, sew a topstitch around the top edge of the bag.
Step 12: Final Assembly
Insert the interior lining into the bag, ensuring all seams are lined up. Press the bag for a crisp finish.
You can now start using your bag for trick-or-treating or customize it further with a pocket or additional embellishments.
Pro Tips for Customization:
Adding Structure: To make the bag sturdier, quilt it with fusible fleece or foam.
Scrap Fabric: Use leftover or orphan blocks to piece together the exterior.
Handle Length: Feel free to adjust the length of your handles based on your preference.
Resize the Bag: Want a larger or smaller bag? Adjust your measurements accordingly.
Enjoy your DIY reversible Trick or Treat bag!
Happy sewing!
Becca