How to Sew a Hobo Bag | A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you looking to add a stylish and functional bag to your collection? Look no further! In this guide, we will teach you how to sew a hobo bag from scratch. The hobo bag is a popular choice for its slouchy shape and ample space, making it perfect for everyday use. Whether you’re a beginner or have some sewing experience, this project is achievable and rewarding. So, let’s dive in and create your very own hobo bag!

Read More: How to Sew a Leather Bag 

Choosing the Right Materials and Supplies | How to Sew a Hobo Bag

Before we start sewing, it’s important to gather all the necessary materials and supplies. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 yard of fabric for the exterior of the bag
• 3/4 yard of fabric for the interior of the bag
• 1 yard of heavy stabilizer (Pellon 65 or 70)
• 1 sheet of plastic canvas (12×18 inches)
• Square or round rings for the straps
• 1 9″ zipper for the interior pocket
• 10×16 inch rectangle of fabric for the interior pocket

Ensure that the fabrics you choose are suitable for the project. Consider using a heavier fabric for the exterior and lining to provide durability and structure to the bag. Additionally, gather all the necessary sewing tools such as scissors, pins, thread, and a sewing machine.

Cutting and Preparing the Fabric

To start, download and print the hobo bag pattern. Tape the pattern pieces together and use it as a guide to cut out the fabric pieces. Pay attention to the instructions on the pattern, as some pieces may require additional length or width.

Once you have cut out the fabric pieces, it’s time to prepare them for sewing. Trim the interfacing to 1/4″ and attach it to the corresponding pieces of the bag’s exterior. Baste the interfacing to the fabric using a long stitch length.

Sewing the Exterior of the Bag

Now it’s time to sew the exterior pieces of the bag together. Begin by sewing the two bottom/side pieces together, leaving a 1/2″ seam allowance. Clip the bottom/side piece at the notches to allow for easier sewing. Press the seam open.

Next, attach the bottom/side piece to the front and back pieces of the bag. Pin the pieces together, ensuring that the center seam of the bottom/side piece aligns with the center notch on the front piece. Sew the pieces together, stopping 1/2″ from the top of the front/back pieces.

Repeat the process for the other side of the bag. Notch the seam allowance on the front/back pieces to reduce bulk. Trim the interfacing down close to the stitching line.

Related; How to Clean and Maintain Your Hobo Bag

Adding Stabilizer for Structure

To give the bag structure and stability, we will add a piece of plastic canvas to the bottom of the bag. Cut a 1.75×18 inch piece of plastic canvas and enclose it between two layers of fabric scrap. Sew around the edges to secure the plastic canvas in place.

Position the plastic canvas piece in the center of the bottom/side piece and sew it to the seam allowance. Trim the seam allowances to 1/4″ for a clean finish. This step may require extra attention and precision to ensure the plastic canvas stays centered.

Alternatively, you can sew fabric strips to the seam allowances and slip the plastic canvas between them. This method may be easier for some sewers.

Creating the Interior Pocket

An interior pocket is a great addition to any hobo bag for organizing smaller items. To create the pocket, mark a rectangle measuring 8.25×0.5 inches on the wrong side of the pocket fabric. Fold the fabric in half, matching the top and side edges, and stitch around three edges to finish the pocket.

Mark the center of the pocket and the lining fabric. Align the top of the pocket with the marked line on the lining fabric and pin them together. Sew along the marked rectangle, creating a slit for the pocket. Cut diagonally into the corners, being careful not to cut too close to the stitching. Push the pocket fabric through the slit and press it flat.

Fold the lining fabric back and sew the triangle-shaped section down to the pocket fabric. This will help secure the pocket in place. Finally, sew the sides and bottom of the pocket to the lining fabric to complete the pocket.

Assembling the Lining

Now it’s time to assemble the lining of the bag. Sew the front and back pieces together, leaving a 1/2″ seam allowance. Clip the corners and notch the seam allowance to reduce bulk. Press the seam open.

Attach the bottom/side piece to the front and back pieces of the lining, following the same procedure as for the exterior of the bag. Trim the interfacing close to the stitching line.

Attaching the Straps

The straps are an essential part of the hobo bag, providing comfort and functionality. Cut four strap pieces, two measuring 2″ longer and two measuring 16″ longer than your desired strap length. Sew the shorter strap pieces together and the longer strap pieces together, leaving one short end open. Turn the straps right side out and topstitch to finish.

Pin the straps to the bag, ensuring they are centered and aligned with the top edge. Baste the straps in place, leaving about 1 1/2″ from the top of the bag.

Sewing the Bag Together

Now it’s time to sew the bag together. Place the exterior of the bag inside the lining, right sides together. Align the top edges and pin them in place. Sew around the top edge, leaving a small opening for turning the bag right side out.

Turn the bag right side out through the opening and press the top edge. Sew the opening closed with a topstitch or slip stitch.

Adding a Closure

To keep your belongings secure, you can add a closure to the hobo bag. There are two popular options: D rings or a loop and toggle closure.

For D rings, sew a fabric strip to the top edge of the bag and attach the rings to the strip. Thread the straps through the rings and adjust them to your desired length.

For a loop and toggle closure, sew a button and a loop of elastic cord to the top “lid” of the bag. Attach another button to the opposite side of the bag opening. To close the bag, thread the elastic loop through the button on the lid and secure it with the toggle button.

Choose the closure style that suits your preferences and sew it securely to the bag.

Finishing Touches

To complete your hobo bag, trim any loose threads and give it a final press. Take a moment to admire your handiwork and enjoy your new stylish and functional bag!

Conclusion

Congratulations on completing your very own hobo bag! By following this step-by-step guide, you have learned how to sew a stylish and practical bag that will be a valuable addition to your collection. Remember to experiment with different fabrics and personal touches to make your hobo bag truly unique. Happy sewing!