"The Charlie" Leather Tote - PDF Download Template & PDF Full Colour Brochure £9.99

Charlie Leather Tote – PDF Handbag Template

The Charlie Leather Tote is a smart and structured everyday bag with clean lines, refined detailing, and a timeless silhouette. With its tall, narrow shape and solid base, this tote is both practical and chic—perfect for work, daily errands, or weekend outings.

This is a deeply satisfying bag to sew, especially for beginners ready to explore leather craft. The Charlie features a full zip closure for security, a beautifully framed internal zip pocket, and a key fob leather strap to help you stay organised. Decorative rivets and professionally finished edges give it a sleek, high-end look from top to bottom.

Designed specifically for sewing on a domestic machine, this downloadable PDF template is ideal for anyone looking to build their leatherworking skills with a project that’s stylish, functional, and rewarding to make.

Skill Level:

Beginner

Finished Dimensions:

34cm (L) x 38cm (H) x 7cm (W)
Handle Drop: 20cm

What’s Included:

• PDF pattern files to print at home (A4 and US Letter formats)

• A5 full-colour brochure with step-by-step written and photographic instructions

We recommend backing your paper pattern onto card. 

Suggested Materials:

• 8–10 square ft of lightweight leather (maximum 1mm thickness)

• 1 metre of heavyweight iron-on stabiliser

• 0.5 metre of medium to heavyweight lining

• 2 x leather straps for handles (2.5cm wide, approx. 55cm long)

• 1 x closed-end zip (30cm) for the top of the bag

• 1 x zip (20cm) for the internal pocket

• Small D-ring or trigger hook for key fob strap

• Rivets for decorative detail

• Polyester or bonded nylon thread

Suggested Tools:

All RJ Leather Studio patterns are thoughtfully designed to be achievable using a domestic sewing machine. You will need:

• Teflon foot, roller foot, or walking foot

• Zipper foot

• Leather point needles size 110/18

• Scissors or rotary cutter

• Copydex glue or similar leather adhesive

• Hole punch & rubber mallet

• Rivet setting tool

• Awl or gel pen to score stitch lines

• Burnishing gum (e.g. tragacanth)

• Metal or plastic ruler, cutting mat

• Iron (for stabiliser)

Copyright & Licensing Info:

You're welcome to sell the bags you create from this pattern at markets, in shops, or via your online store. Please credit us when you do:
“Handbag made by [your name], created from an RJ Leather Studio Pattern.”

Mass or factory production, pattern sharing, and use in teaching or workshops is strictly prohibited.