Sydney Tote Bag Guide
Welcome to the guide for your Sydney Tote Bag Kit. We're so excited to have you here!
This guide will take you through the process of making your bag from beginning to end - from getting familiar with your kits contents, learning saddle stitch and finally, assembling your bag.
No leatherworking experience needed. Every piece comes pre-cut and pre-punched, so all that's left is the satisfying part: stitching it together by hand. ๐

๐ Your Bag Kit Includes:
๐ค Pre-cut PU leather bag pieces
๐ค Pre-sewn shoulder strap piece
๐ค Reinforced base piece
๐ค Metal buckle
๐ค Metal bag feet
๐ค Bulldog clips x2
๐ค Waxed thread spool
๐ค Sewing needles x4
๐ค Tailors Awl
๐ค Mini Screwdriver
๐ค Craft Club nameplate
Watch the below video for a deep dive into your kit contents.
What's Inside Your Sydney Bag Kit
๐งต Getting Started
Now you know what's inside your kit - it's time to get started! In this section we'll be teaching you the foundational skills behind your handbag kit. We'll be going through how to thread your needles and how to saddle stitch confidently.
Threading Your Needle
How to Saddle Stitch

๐ชก Assembling Your Sydney Tote Bag
Now you've nailed the technique, its time for the best part - assembling your bag!
In the below videos we'll be taking you step-by-step through each element of your bag kit.
We'll begin with the easiest stitching, then level up your skills by stitching longer lengths and more layers when you reach your straps. Take it slow and steady, and make sure to watch the videos in full if you get stuck along the way.
Part 1 - Turned Edge
๐งฐ Quick Tips!
Before you continue sewing your bag, here's a few tips & tricks to help you along your way.
๐ Use your bulldog clips to keep your pieces lined up while you sew. It's normal to move these frequently as you stitch and move the placement of you leather pieces.
๐งต Pull each stitch snug, but not too tight, so your seams stay neat without puckering.
โณ Take your time! Most makers finish their bag in around 4 hours, so feel free to spread it over a few sessions. Remember crafting is all about enjoying the journey!
โก If taking it slow is not for you, remember you can try the speedy stitching method which is shown in the video tutorial below.
Tip: Speedy Stitching
Part 2 - Side Panels
Part 3 - Base Panel (Smaller Side)
Part 4 - Base Panel (Longer Side)
Part 5 - First Strap
Part 6 - Second Strap
โจ Finishing Touches
Your Sydney bag is almost complete! There's a few final touches you can add to give your bag that extra special finish.
Adding Reinforced Base
Adding Finishing Touches









