Alexandra Smith from Lola Nova has created an effortlessly stylish and practical accessory with her Origami Market Bag, and she’s generously shared a tutorial for making it! This bag is the perfect blend of simplicity and functionality, making it a fantastic project for anyone looking to create something chic yet durable.
The bag is made from a long rectangle of fabric that’s folded on the diagonal and stitched into a boxy, slouchy tote. The origami-inspired folding technique gives the bag a unique, geometric shape that stands out, while the soft drape and boxy corners provide a casual, laid-back feel—ideal for a market stroll, a day at the beach, or carrying your essentials around town.
One of the standout features of this design is the boxed corners, which help give the bag its spacious, roomy interior, perfect for holding groceries, books, or whatever you need. The contrast handle adds a nice touch of visual interest, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the bag, while ensuring it’s comfortable and easy to carry. The combination of a simple, yet effective design and functional features makes this tote a perfect DIY project for both beginners and seasoned sewists.
What makes this bag even more appealing is how easy it is to customize. You can play around with fabric choices, from bold, colorful prints to muted, neutral tones, depending on your style preferences. It’s a great way to add your personal touch to your everyday carryall. Plus, since it’s made from a single rectangle of fabric, it’s an efficient use of materials, making it a great option for scrap fabrics you might have lying around.
Alexandra’s tutorial is a guest post on Whip Up, where she walks you through the steps in clear, easy-to-follow instructions. Whether you’re looking to create a handmade gift for a friend or simply want to treat yourself to a new bag, the Origami Market Bag is a great choice. The combination of simplicity, functionality, and style ensures this project will be a hit, and you’ll have a trendy new tote to show off at the end.. Go there for the how-to.
[photo from Lola Nova on Whip Up]
