Shopping Bag Pattern

2 - 13 x 14 inch rectangles (front and back)
1 - 40 x 9 inch rectangle (side & bottom)
2 - 42 x 3 inch straps (folded over and hemmed to create a 1.5 in strap)
1 - 13 x 9 inch rectangle bottom insert
1 - 12.5 x 8.5 inch cardboard stabilizer for bottom

This is the order I sew the bags in, but figure out what works best for you. It took me a couple of bags to get a pattern going as I made these up loosely based on the bags you can buy at the stores.

-Place the bottom 13x9 insert in the center of the 40x9 rectangle and pin in place.
-Next space the 42x1.5 inch straps 6 inches apart on the bottom insert, tack in place and sew all three layers together. Repeat for second strap on alternate side.
-With the straps on the outside and the bottom insert on the inside of the bag, fit the two 13x14 panels in by aligning the 13 inch bottom with the insert and then working out to each side pinning in the side panel as you go.
-Sew each full side together with one long stitch reinforcing corners with a corner stitch.
-Turn bag right side out and stitch straps to the outside of the bag for stability.
-Place cardboard rectangle in bottom of bag between base layer and bottom insert to keep it in place.
- Fold and go...Enjoy!
Front of bags, the left has the side panels pulled out so you can see them.
The inside of the bag to help you get a better idea of how to put it together. The previous post also has a picture of the bag open on the manikin as well so you can see how the long panel wraps around the front and back panel. Let me know if you have any questions. (Sorry I don't usually make my patterns with directions, as I am usually the only one using them :-)
Oh one additional note you may notice my bags have stitching in the side panel, this is to create a permanent crease here because I am anal retentive, it is not necessary and I made Mindy's bags without. If you want it sew in an upside down Y in each side.