T shirt to Tote Bag by Allison Mitola
Craft curator Allison Mitola
This no-sew DIY project makes a new use out of an old t-shirt - it can be one you never find yourself wearing, or consider getting one at a thrift store. Read ahead to learn how to make a cute bag that no one else will have! This is an easy and relaxing craft that is perfect to do outside or while watching a movie.
You will need:
An old t-shirt
Scissors
Step 1:
After selecting what shirt you are using, choose which side you want facing the outside. I chose a shirt with a design that I did not want visible, so I flipped mine inside out.
Step 2:
Cut off the sleeves of the shirt following the seam, making sure to remove the entire sleeve and seam. This will create the outside of your straps.
Step 3:
Cut the shape for the inside of your first strap by first cutting parallel to the outside of the strap. I chose to make my straps about an inch and a half wide. Once you reach where the bottom of the armpit hole was, end your strap by turning 90 degrees and cutting across the top of the bag.
Step 4:
To ensure that the straps are even, flip the shape you just cut out over on the other side. When cutting the second strap, trace around the shape of the first.
Step 5:
Finish cutting the shape for the straps and top of the bag.
Step 6:
Flip the shirt/bag inside out. Cut off the seam at the bottom of the shirt. Then, cut the entire bottom of the shirt/bag into thin strips (about ½ inch wide and 1.5 inch long). Cut the front and back at the same time so there are the same number of strips on each side.
Step 7:
Using the strips that were just cut, secure the bottom of the bag by tying. Tie a knot between each pair of strips on the front and back side, then double knot them to secure. The tails of the knots should be facing outward. Make sure these knots are tight, or else the bottom of the bag will have gaps in it.
Step 8:
Flip the bag inside out so your desired side is facing out and the knots are concealed on the inside. Your new tote is ready to use!
