Old T-shirts sitting in the back of your closet don’t have to go to waste! Instead of tossing them out, why not upcycle them into reusable shopping bags? It’s a fun, eco-friendly way to reduce waste while giving your old clothes a second life. These DIY shopping bags are durable, easy to make, and require little to no sewing, making them perfect for everyone—from beginners to expert crafters.
Here are 10 creative ways to turn your old T-shirts into reusable shopping bags!
1. The No-Sew Fringe T-Shirt Bag
This no-sew option is quick, easy, and stylish thanks to its fun fringe design.
How to Make It:
- Cut Off the Sleeves and Neckline: Cut along the seams to create two handles and a wide opening at the top.
- Trim the Bottom: Cut small vertical slits along the bottom edge of the shirt (front and back) to create fringe strips.
- Tie Knots: Tie the front and back fringe strips together into tight knots to seal the bottom of the bag.
- Reinforce: Double-knot each strip for extra strength.
Best For: Grocery runs or carrying lightweight items.
2. Sewn T-Shirt Tote Bag
If you know your way around a sewing machine, this method creates a clean, professional-looking tote bag.
How to Make It:
- Cut Off the Sleeves and Neckline: Shape the opening to your desired size.
- Flip Inside Out: Turn the T-shirt inside out so you can sew along the bottom seam.
- Sew the Bottom Closed: Use a straight stitch to sew the bottom of the shirt closed.
- Reinforce the Handles: Sew along the sleeve edges to prevent fraying.
Best For: Sturdier uses like carrying books, produce, or heavy groceries.
3. Braided Handle Bag
Add a touch of flair with braided handles, perfect for a chic reusable bag.
How to Make It:
- Cut Off the Sleeves and Bottom Hem: Save the bottom hem for later.
- Create the Handles: Cut 3 long strips from the shirt’s leftover material. Braid these strips together.
- Attach the Handles: Cut small slits at the top corners of the bag and loop the braided handles through. Tie or sew the ends securely.
Best For: Carrying small items while looking stylish.
4. Drawstring T-Shirt Bag
A drawstring bag is great for compact storage and versatile use.
How to Make It:
- Cut Off the Sleeves and Neckline: Shape the top into a rectangle or oval.
- Create a Casing for the String: Fold the top edge of the shirt down by about an inch and sew or glue it to create a casing.
- Thread the String: Use a shoelace or ribbon as the drawstring. Thread it through the casing using a safety pin.
- Secure the Bottom: Sew or tie the bottom of the shirt closed.
Best For: Gym clothes, quick errands, or storing toys.
5. The Slouchy Shoulder Bag
Turn a loose-fitting T-shirt into a trendy, slouchy bag perfect for casual outings.
How to Make It:
- Cut Off the Sleeves and Neckline: Create a wide, deep opening for a relaxed look.
- Tie the Bottom: Gather the bottom hem of the shirt and tie it into a large knot to seal the base.
- Trim Excess Fabric: Adjust the knot and trim any leftover fabric.
Best For: Carrying beach towels, snacks, or lightweight items.
6. Reversible T-Shirt Bag
Want a two-in-one bag? This reversible design lets you switch up the look.
How to Make It:
- Cut the Sleeves and Neckline: Shape as desired for the handles and opening.
- Layer Two T-Shirts: Use two T-shirts of different colors or patterns. Place one inside the other, with the right sides facing out.
- Sew the Edges: Sew around the top and bottom edges, leaving the armholes open as handles.
- Flip the Bag: Turn it inside out to reveal the reversible design.
Best For: A versatile shopping bag with a stylish twist.
7. Mesh T-Shirt Bag
For a breathable option perfect for produce, try a mesh bag made from an old T-shirt.
How to Make It:
- Cut Off the Sleeves and Neckline: Shape the opening.
- Create the Mesh: Cut horizontal slits along the front and back of the shirt, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Tie the Bottom Closed: Knot or sew the bottom to finish the bag.
Best For: Fresh produce or farmer’s market hauls.
8. Upcycled Graphic Tote
Show off your favorite T-shirt graphics by turning them into a statement tote bag.
How to Make It:
- Cut Off the Sleeves and Neckline: Be careful to preserve the graphic design.
- Trim and Sew the Bottom: Sew the bottom edge closed, or tie it shut using the fringe method.
- Reinforce the Handles: Sew or hem the armholes to strengthen the handles.
Best For: A unique, personalized tote for everyday use.
9. Cinched Waist Bag
Repurpose a cinched-waist T-shirt into a stylish bag with built-in structure.
How to Make It:
- Cut Off the Sleeves and Neckline: Shape the opening.
- Secure the Bottom: Sew or knot the bottom edge.
- Cinch the Waist: Tighten the bag’s middle using the existing drawstring or elastic waistline.
Best For: Small errands or as a fun accessory.
10. Kid-Friendly T-Shirt Bag
Get the kids involved with a fun, no-sew bag project.
How to Make It:
- Let Kids Pick the T-Shirt: Use their favorite colors or designs.
- Cut Off the Sleeves and Neckline: Adjust the size of the opening to suit small hands.
- Use the Fringe Method: Let kids help tie the fringe strips at the bottom of the shirt.
- Decorate Together: Use fabric markers, patches, or stickers to personalize the bag.
Best For: Toy storage, library books, or small items.
FAQs
1. Do I need sewing skills to make a T-shirt bag?
Not at all! Many methods, like the fringe and knot technique, are completely no-sew.
2. How strong are T-shirt bags?
T-shirt bags are surprisingly durable, especially if made from thicker cotton or reinforced with sewing.
3. Can I use tank tops instead of T-shirts?
Yes! Tank tops are perfect for turning into bags since they already have a built-in handle shape.
4. What types of T-shirts work best?
Cotton T-shirts are ideal because they’re durable, stretchable, and easy to cut. Thicker fabrics create sturdier bags.
5. How can I clean a T-shirt bag?
Most T-shirt bags can be machine-washed. Use a gentle cycle to maintain the bag’s shape.
6. Can I add extra pockets to my bag?
Yes! Use leftover fabric from the sleeves to sew or glue small pockets onto the bag.
7. How long does it take to make a T-shirt bag?
Most methods take less than 30 minutes, with some no-sew options taking as little as 10 minutes.
8. Can kids make T-shirt bags?
Absolutely! No-sew options are simple and safe, making them great for kids’ craft projects.
9. How do I prevent my bag from fraying?
For no-sew bags, use pinking shears to cut the fabric. For sewn bags, hem the edges for a clean finish.
10. Are T-shirt bags good for the environment?
Yes! Upcycling old T-shirts into reusable bags reduces waste and eliminates the need for plastic shopping bags.
With these 10 creative ideas, you can upcycle your old T-shirts into functional, eco-friendly reusable shopping bags. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also help reduce waste and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle!