DIY Zippered Beach Tote Bag | Free Pattern & Video Tutorial

Zippered Waterfront Beach Bag by YoanSewingStudio

Get the Zippered Waterfront Beach Bag Pattern here

Watch the video tutorial

Zippered Waterfront Beach Bag Project 
Planning a beach day, pool trip, picnic, or weekend getaway? Meet the Zippered Waterfront Beach Bag—a spacious, lightweight tote designed to carry everything you need while keeping your belongings safely tucked away with a full zipper closure.

If you enjoyed my Waterfront Beach Bag, you'll love this updated version. It has the same roomy design that's perfect for towels, sunscreen, snacks, extra clothes, and more, but now features a zippered top to keep everything secure whether you're heading to the beach, traveling, or simply running errands.

Finished Bag MeasurementsApproximately 15" W × 13½" H × 6½" D (38 × 34 × 16.5 cm)
Features

• Full zipper closure
• Front exterior slip pocket
• Two exterior side pockets
• Three interior mesh pockets
• Interior zipper pocket
• Comfortable shoulder straps
• Lightweight and easy to pack for travel

Whether you're packing for a family beach day or carrying supplies for a sewing retreat, this tote has plenty of room without feeling bulky.
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What You'll Need
Fabric
For the exterior, I recommend using waterproof home décor fabric, waterproof canvas, or cotton laminate. These fabrics help protect your belongings from moisture and are easy to wipe clean after a day outdoors.
For the lining, I used nylon ripstop fabric, but PUL fabric or other lightweight water-resistant fabrics work wonderfully as well.
If you prefer regular canvas or cotton fabric, you can always treat the finished bag with a fabric waterproofing spray for extra protection.

Straps
To keep this project simple and durable, I used 1½" wide webbing for the handles. Of course, you can make fabric handles if you prefer—just make sure they finish at approximately the same width.

Zipper
This version features a double pull zipper closure (size #5 or #4.5)
You'll also need a standard nylon coil zipper for the interior zipper pocket.

Why You'll Love the Zippered Version
One of the most requested features after releasing the original Waterfront Beach Bag was a zipper closure.
While the magnetic snap worked beautifully for quick access, a zipper offers several advantages:

• Keeps your belongings more secure
• Prevents items from falling out while traveling
• Helps keep sand, dirt, and curious little hands out
• Makes the bag a great everyday tote—not just for the beach

The zipper blends seamlessly into the design while keeping the roomy opening that makes packing and unpacking so easy.

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Watch the Video Tutorial
 Once you've downloaded the PDF pattern, be sure to watch the complete step-by-step video tutorial on my YouTube channel.
I'll walk you through every part of the construction, from preparing your fabrics and installing the zipper to assembling the bag and adding the finishing touches.
If you enjoy sewing practical bags that you'll actually use, don't forget to subscribe so you won't miss future tutorials.

Final Thoughts
I designed this tote to be functional, durable, and fun to sew. Whether you're headed to the beach, the pool, the farmer's market, or simply need a roomy everyday bag, I hope this project becomes one of your favorites.
If you make one, I'd love to see it! Be sure to tag @YoanSewingStudio on Instagram or Facebook so I can admire your beautiful creation.
Happy sewing!
— Yoan