Cut two rectangles from your canvas fabric, each measuring 15 inches wide by 16 inches tall. These will be the front and back of your tote bag. Then cut two strips measuring 3 inches wide by 22 inches long for the handles.
Fold down the top edge of each rectangle by half an inch, press with an iron, then fold down another half inch and press again. Pin in place and sew along the bottom edge of the fold to create a clean finished top edge.
For each handle strip, fold both long edges toward the center so they meet in the middle, press, then fold in half lengthwise. Pin and sew along both long edges to secure. Repeat for the second handle.
Place the handles on the right side of one fabric piece, positioning each handle 3 inches from the side edges. The raw ends should align with the top hemmed edge. Pin and sew in place with a square and X stitch pattern for strength. Repeat on the other fabric piece.
Place both fabric pieces right sides together, aligning all edges. Pin along the sides and bottom. Sew with a half-inch seam allowance down one side, across the bottom, and up the other side, leaving the top open.
At each bottom corner, flatten the corner so the side seam aligns with the bottom seam, forming a triangle. Measure 2 inches from the point and draw a line perpendicular to the seam. Sew along this line and trim excess fabric, leaving a quarter-inch seam allowance.
Trim any loose threads and turn the bag right-side out through the top opening. Push out the corners gently and press the bag with an iron for a crisp finish. Your tote bag is ready to use!