A sturdy beach bag can carry you through the seasons, and even from vacation to vocation. Fortunately custom-made totes are also one of the easiest sewing projects to tackle. Not all bags are alike, however, and you'll want to make one that lasts in both looks and function. Here's how:

• The Bottom Line: Nothing is worse than a floppy little carryall with handles that snap at the first sign of strain. One of the keys to making a to great tote is to reinforce it properly with stiff interfacing and well-anchored handles. It's important to add boning to make the bag stand up by itself. And of course, you can never go wrong with a good primer on interfacing or stabilzer. For a firm bottom for your bag, you can make or purchase reinforcers.
• Pretty & Practical: Choosing the right fabric is key when creating your own beach bag. Whether you go with a tough duck material or a durable polished cotton, you will want to consider the fabric type carefully. The sturdier the textile, the longer it will last.
• Learn Tote-making Basics: It's a good idea to watch a few videos before you sit down at your machine. Or you could also join an online communiity that's passionate about making totes where you can share ideas and get information.
• Favorite Patterns: If you want to save money, there are plenty of free beach tote patterns floating about online. You'll want one that's fairly simple and doesn't require printing out or enlarging patterns. I prefer some of the indie designs out there like this stylish, reversible (could-be-a-purse-too) pattern from Veska or this adorable Multi-Taskter Tote pattern from Anna Maria Horner where you can even buy the fabric. Butterick has a version that is technically for storage but could be an awesome tote with a little improvisation on the handles. Laura Ashley for McCall's offers a colorful option that is beyond cute.

For more DIY Design columns, click here. Next week, make your own lingerie.