Firming up the Bottom of a Tote Bag

[Snip Snip]

I have made a few of those cute tote bags with charm packs, that Jenny shows, and was wondering what I can use to make a stabilizing panel to put in the bottom. For a couple of them, I have used a fabric-covered cardboard panel, but it has its limits, of course. Is there anything else you can think of that would be firm, not creasable (unlike cardboard) not real heavy, and rather stiff, but with some flexibility? Foam board will snap if you try to bend it. I guess I could try to cut a panel out of something like wall paneling? Or ???

[Kim T]

I have seen the plastic embroidery canvas that people use with yarn (either doubled or tripled in layers). It kind of reminds me of aida cloth in plastic. Not sure if I am describing this product correctly.

[GrammaBabs]

Kim is right.... Walmart has it...or the other "hobby" stores...good idea about layering it... for extra strength..

[Sandy Navas]

I used that plastic stuff in a tote several years ago and then washed it and wound up with a whole lot of little pieces of plastic (I'd sewn it in place). If you use something like that I'd suggest you make a separate pocket and just lay in the bottom of the bag so it could be removed later. Some of the quilting template plastic may be a better solution (JoAnns carries it). Or have plexiglas cut to size.

BUT, if you use the headliner fabric or Soft and Stable (there are others) the bottom should be firm enough.

[Cathy F]

For the few purses I've made I use foamcore cut to size, then made a sleeve for it out of the matching fabric. You can then remove it if you need to clean it but it gives you a good sturdy bottom.

[LynneLeavell]

I have also used old cutting mats. Just cut them the size needed and cover and put in the bottom.

[sidesaddles]

I cut old cutting mats and covered with a sleeve so I could wash it if needed.

[songbird857]

I have this from Nancy's Notions - I have not used it yet though... comes in black or white.
Black Shape 'n Create Stabilizer - Purses & Totes - Supplies - Nancy's Notions

[Jean Sewing Machine]

How about Peltex? It is fabric, you can sew it into the bottom of your purse and is stiff but flexible. It comes in black and white.

[MRoy]

When I made bags, I used particle board cut to size and put in a "sleeve" that was removed for laundering.