Bag Calculator
Calculate fabric requirements for tote bags and storage bags
Desired Bag Size
Depth determines the base size of your bag
Box corners create a structured base for tote bags
Bag Dimensions
Fabric Needed
Note: Calculations include 1.3 cm seam allowance
Example Calculation
Tote Bag Example
Desired bag: 32 cm wide × 44 cm high × 18 cm deep
Box corners: Yes
Result: 102.5 cm × 55.5 cm fabric needed
Box corners: 9 cm squares
Formula Breakdown
Fabric Width = (2 × 32) + (2 × 18) + 1.3 = 101.3 cm
Fabric Height = 44 + (0.5 × 18) + 1.3 = 54.3 cm
Box Corner = 18 ÷ 2 = 9 cm
Seam allowance included in calculations
Types of Bags You Can Make
Market Tote
Perfect for grocery shopping
Work Tote
Carry laptops and documents
Storage Bag
Organize and store items
Craft Bag
Carry knitting or art supplies
Fabric Selection Tips
Cotton canvas: Durable for everyday use
Linen: Natural and breathable
Denim: Strong for heavy-duty bags
Pre-wash fabric to prevent shrinking
Consider interfacing for structure
Understanding Bag Calculations
Bag Measurement Formulas
Fabric Width = (2 × w) + (2 × d) + seam allowance
Fabric Height = h + (0.5 × d) + seam allowance
Box Corner = d ÷ 2
Variables:
- w = Width of the desired bag
- h = Height of the desired bag
- d = Depth of the desired bag
- Seam allowance = 0.5 inches (1.27 cm)
Why These Formulas Work
- •Width calculation: Accounts for front, back, and two side panels
- •Height calculation: Includes main height plus half the depth for the base
- •Box corners: Create a flat bottom by removing fabric squares
- •Seam allowance: Extra fabric for stitching without losing dimensions
Pro Tip: Always add extra fabric for pattern matching and cutting errors