Have a long sleeve shirt that’s been sitting at the back of your closet for ages? Maybe it doesn’t fit anymore or it’s just not your style, but you haven’t wanted to toss it out.

Why not give it a new lease on life? With a little creativity and a few basic materials, you can transform that shirt into a one-of-a-kind tote bag. Not only is this a fun DIY project, but it’s also a great way to upcycle, reducing waste and saving money.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started!

What You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather your materials. Most of these you probably already have at home!

• A long sleeve shirt (cotton, flannel, denim, or similar fabrics work best)
• A pair of sharp scissors
• Needle and thread (or a sewing machine if you have one)
• Pins or fabric clips
• Measuring tape or ruler
• Chalk or fabric marker (optional, but helpful for making straight lines)

For added personality, consider extras like lace trim, fabric paint, or embroidered patches to decorate your tote bag.

Choosing the Perfect Shirt

When picking a shirt to upcycle, look for these qualities:

Durable fabric: Tote bags carry weight, so thinner fabrics may not hold up. Cotton, linen, or flannel are great choices, while stretchy materials may lose shape.

Fun patterns or colors: Shirts with vibrant prints or unique textures make for eye-catching totes. Solid colors act as an awesome blank canvas for decorating later.

Size matters: Larger shirts give you more fabric to work with, which means larger totes!

Once you’ve picked your shirt, you’re ready to upcycle.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1. Cut the Shirt

Lay your shirt flat on a solid surface, smoothing out any wrinkles. Use your scissors to cut straight across the shirt, just below the sleeves. You’ll only need the bottom, so set the upper portion aside for another project.

Step 2. Mark and Trim the Bag Shape

Determine the desired height of your tote bag. For a standard size, leave about 15-18 inches of fabric in length. Use your chalk or fabric marker to draw a straight line, then cut off any excess fabric at the bottom if needed.

Step 3. Sew the Bottom Closed

Turn the shirt fabric inside out. Line up the raw edges at the bottom and pin them in place. Sew along the bottom with a sturdy stitch, leaving no gaps. Reinforce by sewing a second line about half an inch below the first.

No sewing machine? No problem! You can use fabric glue or hand-sew with a backstitch for extra strength.

Step 4. Create the Handles

Grab one or both sleeves from the section you set aside. Cut two equal strips from the fabric of the sleeves to make handles. Make sure they’re long enough to sling over your shoulder (about 20-24 inches).

Fold each strip in half lengthwise (right sides together), sew along the edge, then turn them right-side out to hide the seam. If you prefer a simpler alternative, you can simply use sturdy ribbon or pre-made straps.

Step 5. Attach the Handles

Turn your tote bag right-side out. Position each handle strap at the top edge of the bag, about 2-3 inches in from each side. Pin them securely in place. Sew a small square or X-stitch at the ends of each handle for reinforcement.

Step 6. Decorate and Customize

Now that your tote bag is functional, it’s time to get creative! Add a pop of personality with the following ideas:

• Paint fun patterns using fabric paint or stencils.
• Sew on buttons, pom-poms, or lace trim for a whimsical vibe.
• Use iron-on patches or embroidery to add a personal message or design.
• Leave it natural for a simple, classic look.

The great thing about DIY projects is that the choices are completely up to you.

Why Upcycle?

Upcycling isn’t just fun and creative; it’s good for the environment too. Every year, millions of textiles end up in landfills.

By repurposing something you already own, you’re reducing waste and minimizing your environmental footprint. Plus, you’re saving money.

A new tote bag can cost anywhere from $15 to $50 at a store, but making one yourself might only cost a couple of bucks.

Beyond the benefits to the Earth and your wallet, upcycling is also a way to express yourself. Each bag you make will be uniquely yours, carrying its own story and charm.

Give It a Try!

Next time you’re tidying up your closet, don’t toss out that long sleeve shirt! Turn it into something beautiful, practical, and sustainable.

Making your own tote bag is not only rewarding but also empowering. You’ll have a sturdy new bag to carry groceries, books, or even your next crafting project.

Happy crafting and upcycling! If you try this project, share your creations with your friends or inspire someone else to give it a shot. Every small step towards sustainability makes a big difference!