Pattern Description:
This free embroidered tote bag pattern features the charming Reading Ghost design – a playful, hand-stitched motif perfect for Halloween or everyday use.
Combining creativity and sustainability, this project turns a simple tote into a unique, reusable accessory.
With easy-to-follow steps and cozy seasonal flair, it’s ideal for crafters who love adding a personal, whimsical touch to their handmade creations.
Materials Needed & Measurements:
Tools
- Embroidery hoop
- Fabric shears and small embroidery scissors
- Embroidery needles
- Friction pen or tracing tool for pattern transfer
- Sewing machine (optional)
Materials
- Fabric or a ready-made tote bag (medium-weight natural fibers such as cotton canvas recommended)
- Embroidery floss – two strands of DMC embroidery floss in the following shades:
- Very Dark Pewter Gray
- Mild Antique Violet
- Light Mahogany
- Straw
- Water-soluble stabilizer (optional for pattern transfer)
- Sewing threads (optional, if assembling the bag yourself)
Instructions for Making the Embroidered Tote Bag Pattern:
Step 1: Preparation and Material Gathering
Begin by downloading the Free Reading Ghost PDF pattern. Gather all the listed tools and materials before you start.
- Choosing Your Tote Base: Decide whether you’ll embroider on a ready-made blank shopper or sew your own tote from scratch. Ready-made shoppers are inexpensive, sturdy, and easy to find in craft stores or online.
If you’re sewing your bag, you can customize its dimensions, strap length, and interior pockets.
- Fabric Choice: Opt for a medium-weight cotton canvas or any natural fiber fabric that’s easy to stitch through yet durable enough for everyday use.
- If Sewing from Scratch: Cut your fabric pieces according to your desired bag size and mark the center of the front panel where the embroidery will go. This helps align your design before you begin stitching.
Step 2: Transferring the Pattern
Once your fabric is ready, transfer the Reading Ghost pattern onto it. You can use several methods:
- Lightbox Method: Trace the pattern directly through the fabric.
- Transfer Paper: Place the transfer sheet between your fabric and the printed pattern, then trace the lines.
- Water-Soluble Stabilizer: Print or trace the design onto the stabilizer, stitch through it, and rinse away after finishing.
Place the fabric in an embroidery hoop, ensuring it’s stretched taut but not distorted. If the entire design doesn’t fit in one hoop section, embroider in parts by repositioning the hoop as needed.
Tip: Avoid using knots since the inside of the tote will remain visible. Use the folded thread method to start your stitches cleanly and secure thread ends neatly.
Step 3: Embroidering the Design
- Outlines (Split Backstitch): Start by outlining all main design elements- the ghost, books, bats, and stars- using a Split Backstitch with two strands of dark grey floss. This gives your design clean, defined edges.
- Eyes (Satin Stitch): Fill in the ghost’s eyes using a Satin Stitch with two strands of the same dark grey floss. Begin at the center of each eye and fill evenly with tight, parallel stitches to achieve a smooth, solid look.
- Books (Long and Short Stitch): Use the Long and Short Stitch to fill the colored sections of the books. Mark your stitch direction before you begin for a tidy finish.
Work in small sections, layering rows until the shape is filled. For narrow areas, use horizontal stitches to maintain consistency.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
When the embroidery is complete, remove the fabric from the hoop and gently erase or wash away any visible tracing marks. If you used a water-soluble stabilizer, rinse it off carefully and let the fabric dry flat.
Once dry, lightly press the embroidered area from the back side using a warm iron and a pressing cloth to protect your stitches.
Bag Assembly:
If you’ve sewn your tote from scratch, follow your chosen sewing tutorial to assemble the pieces and attach the handles. For those using a pre-made tote, your project is now ready to use.
Final Thoughts
This embroidered tote bag is the perfect blend of creativity and sustainability. The whimsical Reading Ghost design adds a lighthearted Halloween charm, while the durable tote ensures long-lasting use.
Whether you carry books, groceries, or crafting supplies, this handmade bag will make every outing a little more festive and uniquely yours.
