A canvas car storage bag is a perfect solution for organizing your car and making road trips more enjoyable. Whether you’re a frequent traveler, a parent with kids, or someone who simply wants to declutter your vehicle, this practical storage solution can help keep everything in place. In this tutorial, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to create your own canvas car storage bag, so you can maximize space and add a bit of style to your car.
Making a canvas car storage bag is a rewarding project that’s both functional and fun. You’ll be able to create a durable and spacious bag that can hold everything from your emergency car kit to snacks, water bottles, and even toys. Not only will this help keep your car neat, but it also ensures you can easily access everything you need while on the road. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced seamstress, this project will provide you with the opportunity to learn new sewing techniques while creating a practical and customized bag for your car.
In this pattern, we’ll show you how to select the right materials, cut your fabric, sew the pieces together, and finish the bag with sturdy handles. Let’s dive into the details of making your canvas car storage bag!

1. Materials Needed for the Canvas Car Storage Bag
Before starting your canvas car storage bag, it’s important to gather all the materials needed for the project. Having the right tools and fabric will ensure your bag is both functional and durable for long-term use.
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Here’s a list of what you’ll need to create your canvas car storage bag:
- Canvas Fabric: Choose a sturdy canvas fabric in your preferred color or pattern. A 10 oz. weight canvas is ideal for this project, as it’s thick enough to provide durability while still being easy to sew.
- Coordinating Fabric: You’ll need a lighter fabric for the lining (like cotton) and smaller pieces for any inner pockets.
- Thread: A strong, matching or contrasting thread, depending on your preference. Polyester thread is a good option for durability.
- Sewing Machine: You’ll need a machine that can handle thicker fabrics like canvas. Ensure that your machine is equipped with a denim or heavy-duty needle.
- Scissors: A sharp pair of fabric scissors to cut your materials.
- Measuring Tape: For precise measurements when cutting your fabric pieces.
- Pins or Clips: To hold your fabric pieces together while sewing.
- Iron: For pressing seams to ensure crisp, neat edges.
- Handles: You can either use pre-made handles or create your own from matching fabric or webbing.
- Interfacing (Optional): If you want to add extra structure to your bag, consider using fusible interfacing for added sturdiness.
Once you have everything ready, you’re good to go!
2. Cutting Your Fabric Pieces
The first step to making your canvas car storage bag is cutting your fabric pieces to the right sizes. Accurate cutting is essential for ensuring your bag turns out the correct dimensions.
Step 1: Cut the Main Body Pieces
- Cut two large rectangles from your canvas fabric for the front and back panels. The size of these panels will depend on how large you want your bag. A typical size for the main body is about 18” x 12” for each piece.
Step 2: Cut the Side and Bottom Panels
- Cut two long rectangular pieces for the side panels. These should be the same height as your front and back panels (12” high) and about 6” wide each.
- Cut one bottom piece to match the length of the front and back panels. For example, if the front and back are 18” wide, your bottom piece should also be 18” x 6”.
Step 3: Cut the Lining
- Cut identical pieces for the lining using a cotton or lighter fabric. These will be used to line the inside of the bag.
- Cut the same dimensions for the front, back, side, and bottom pieces, as well as any additional pieces for interior pockets.
Step 4: Cut the Handles (if making them yourself)
- If you’re making fabric handles, cut two strips of fabric. Each strip should be about 24” x 4”. You can choose to use pre-made webbing for sturdier handles or use fabric straps if you prefer a fabric look.
With all your pieces cut and ready, you’re set to start assembling the bag.
3. Sewing the Canvas Car Storage Bag
Now comes the fun part: sewing your canvas car storage bag together. Follow these steps carefully to create a strong, durable bag.
Step 1: Sew the Main Body Panels
- Take the front and back pieces of your canvas fabric and place them right sides together.
- Pin or clip the edges and sew along both sides, using a 1/2” seam allowance. Repeat this step for the other side panel as well.
Step 2: Attach the Side and Bottom Panels
- Now, take the side pieces and attach them to the front and back panels. Again, pin the fabric in place and sew along the sides.
- Attach the bottom panel to the sides, pinning it in place and sewing along the edges. This will form the base of your bag.
Step 3: Sew the Lining
- Repeat the same process for the lining pieces. Start by attaching the front and back lining panels, then sew on the side and bottom lining pieces.
- Leave about a 3-inch gap along the bottom seam of the lining. This will allow you to turn the bag inside out later.
Step 4: Attach the Lining to the Main Bag
- Place the lining inside the canvas shell, with the right sides together.
- Align the seams and pin or clip the top edges of the bag and lining.
- Sew around the top edge, leaving a small opening for turning the bag.
Step 5: Attach the Handles
- If you’re making fabric handles, fold each strip in half lengthwise and sew along the edge. Turn the handles inside out and press them flat.
- Attach the handles to the top of the bag by pinning them in place and sewing securely. If you’re using pre-made webbing handles, simply sew them onto the top edge of the bag.
4. Final Steps and Finishing Touches
Now that the main body of your canvas car storage bag is assembled, it’s time for the finishing touches.
Step 1: Turn the Bag Right Side Out
- Carefully turn the bag right side out through the opening in the lining. Push out the corners to make them neat and crisp.
- Press the bag with an iron to remove any creases and to ensure the seams are flat.
Step 2: Close the Lining Opening
- Fold the raw edges of the lining’s opening inward and press them flat.
- Sew the opening closed with a small, neat stitch.
Step 3: Optional Pockets
If you want to add additional pockets to the inside of your canvas car storage bag, now is the time. You can easily create a simple pocket by folding a piece of fabric, sewing the sides, and attaching it to the lining of the bag.
Step 4: Add a Decorative Touch
Feel free to add any decorative touches to your bag, such as fabric appliqué, embroidery, or even fabric paint. These personalized details will make your canvas car storage bag truly unique.
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FAQ
1. What type of canvas should I use for this project? A medium-weight canvas, around 10 oz., is ideal for a sturdy yet manageable bag. You can choose cotton canvas for a softer feel or polyester canvas for more durability.
2. How can I reinforce the handles to ensure they are strong? If you’re concerned about the handles, you can reinforce them by sewing extra stitches along the edges or adding a layer of interfacing inside the fabric straps.
3. Can I add a zipper to the bag? Yes, you can modify the pattern to include a zipper for a more secure closure. Just replace the top seam with a zipper installation.
4. How do I wash my canvas car storage bag? Canvas is generally washable, but be sure to wash the bag on a gentle cycle with cold water to preserve its shape. Air dry to avoid shrinking.
5. Can I make a smaller version of this bag? Yes! You can easily adjust the dimensions of the fabric pieces to create a smaller bag, perfect for organizing smaller items like toys or personal accessories.
6. Can I use this bag for other purposes? Absolutely! This versatile bag can be used for a variety of purposes beyond your car, including as a shopping bag, beach bag, or even a storage tote for home use.
Conclusion
Making a canvas car storage bag is a fun and practical project that adds both function and style to your vehicle. By following this pattern, you’ve created a durable, customizable storage solution that will help keep your car organized and your items easily accessible. Whether you’re packing for a road trip, storing emergency supplies, or just need a place to keep your essentials, this canvas bag is perfect for the job.
We hope you enjoyed this project! Don’t forget to share your thoughts or any tips for customizing the pattern in the comments below. We’d love to see how your canvas car storage bag turns out! Happy sewing!