Printable Free Hobo Bag Pattern (for DIY Sewing)

Pattern

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This pattern includes two kid-friendly sizes, so you do not have to choose just one. The bag is quick and easy to make, which makes it perfect for sewing one of each.

Try both sizes to see which one you like best. You can switch up the look by making it more like a little clutch, an everyday carry bag, or a shoulder bag for hands-free adventures. See below for more details.

I recommend starting with the smaller size to get the hang of it. Once you see how simple it is, moving up to the larger size feels easy and fun.

Fabric

Using different materials will create entirely different ways to visualize your bag.

Consider a large print in a geometric or floral or a small print stripe or animal print.

Because we are approaching Valentine’s Day, today’s hobo look is “cute.” I chose a sweet fabric print that would be perfect for a young girl. 

But when you change up the fabric, watch it transform into a grown-up bag. It would work for a night out, a beach wedding, a ladies’ lunch, or really any special occasion.

For example, imagine velvet material, a satin, nubby polar fleece (think Lululemon), or using old jeans for a retro look.

How about a cool block print on heavier fabric like canvas (like Lotta Jansdotter) or a cute floral cotton print? There are so many options!

For more sweet gifts, make this Easter Bunny pattern, a pom pom bookmark craft, or a lavender heart eye pillow.

Strap Length

Choose your favorite length for the straps. If you make one with a short handle, you can tie in a knot that looks like a bow, and the purse becomes a small satchel. 

With a medium-length strap, your purse becomes more of a tote bag or market bag design.

Make the straps longer, and you have a shoulder, sling, or crossbody bag style.

Purse Depth

Increasing the depth of the body of the bag creates a big bag with extra space inside and completely alters the look. This gives a relaxed modern vibe but makes it functional even for a diaper bag!

Width of Purse

To create a more slouchy look, increase the width of the pattern. 

The center will slouch down to make a boho bag style.

Reversibility

As I mentioned, this purse is automatically reversible, meaning you can turn it inside out and enjoy two completely different looks.

Instructions

Let’s get started. I will walk you through this simple process of making a hobo bag.

Once you have purchased your materials, pre-wash your fabric. Use the drying technique you plan to use going forward. (air-dry or machine-dry.) You want the fabric to shrink before you cut it out. This will prevent unwanted shrinking in the future. 

Cutting the Fabric

1 Cut two identical pieces of the exterior fabric. Next, cut two pieces of bag lining fabric. (You will have four pieces total) 

If your pattern has a directional print, confirm it is facing correctly before cutting the fabric. 

Also, pay attention if there are pattern markings on the material you want to show up or center on the front or back, etc.

Sewing

Finally, it’s time to sew!

Seam Allowance

I have included a 1/4-inch seam allowance in the pattern. If you prefer a deeper seam allowance, add it to the perimeter of the pattern piece.

Body of Bag

Outer Fabric

2 With the right side together, sew the two panels of the Exterior Fabric (A) along the side seams and bottom with a straight line stitch. (Leave the top arc open.) 

Lining Fabric

Now, do the same with the Lining pieces. For these, leave a 4-inch opening in the center of the bottom seam. (You will use this slot later to turn the bag right side out.)

Bottom Corners

3 & 4 To form a slight bottom for the bag, flatten each corner and stitch it closed (on the wrong side) 1/2-1 inch from the outside edge. Backstitch at the beginning and end of your stitching to reinforce. See the picture for reference. 

Do this to all four corners: two corners in the Exterior Fabric (A) and 2 in the Lining Fabric (B).

I like to press all the seams at this point. First, press all seams open and then press the purse body. Clip/cut edges and curves so everything lays nicely. It is infinitely easier than waiting until the end. 

Put it Together

5 The next step is to combine the two parts. So, with the right sides together, nest the lining inside the exterior fabric piece. 

Straighten out all of the strap pieces and align the raw edges. Pin. 

6 With right sides still together, sew one continuous seam around the entire bag.

Start at the top edge of one strap. Stitch down the outside edge of the bag, around the bottom, and back up to the top edge of the opposite strap. Without stopping, continue sewing across the curved top edge of that strap, down the inside curve between the two straps, and back up to the top edge of the first strap. You should stitch around the entire perimeter of the bag, including the curved area between the straps, in one continuous seam.

7 Turn the bag right side out at the bottom opening. Pull out the straps and the corners using a turning tool or a chopstick as necessary. 

8 Press and top stitch along the edges to give the purse a neat and professional look.

Applique

This step is optional. However, if you want to add an applique shape to the purse, I have included many heart shape options on a pattern PDF. 

You will need a Fusible Web (affiliate link) to create an applique. Then, follow the instructions on the package to apply it.

You can iron the heart on before you sew the bag together or after it is complete.

I added a machine topstitch around the edge of the applique heart, so it looks like it is sewn on, but it is just ironed on. 😉

See this home decor applique pillow project for an example of easy applique steps.

Pocket

A pocket is also optional. I did not add a pocket in my examples, but if you want to, I have included a few shape options on the pattern pages. Cut 1 of these.

To add a patch pocket, press under all sides of your fabric pocket piece 1/4 inch. 

Pin in place on the front Exterior Fabric (A) purse panel before sewing the purse. 

Top stitch the lower three sides of the pocket. Backstitch at the beginning and end of your stitching to reinforce. 

Tying the Handle

Knot the top 2 straps as you desire. For example, if you cut the straps with a curved top, you can create a bow look by tying a simple big knot.

If you prefer a loose knot with hanging ties, cut the ends straight and leave 2-3 inches of a tail on both ties.

You can also connect the handle with this design for a completely different look.

You now have a finished bag. Congrats!

I can’t wait to hear how you design a beautiful bag using this sewing pattern. Please comment below how your hobo bag turns out. I’d love to hear from you. Be sure to subscribe or follow me on social media for more inspiration!

Happy Sewing!

xo,
Cindy