How to Make a Bag out of an Old Long Sleeved Shirt

Cut your shirt., Turn the shirt inside-out and make sure the lower hem is at the top., Sew the bottom cut together., Press all seams. , Cut the sleeves for straps., Cut the sleeve open., Cut your sleeve in half lengthwise., Sew hems on both straps...

10 Steps 1 min read Medium

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Step 1: Cut your shirt.

    Make sure all buttons/zippers/designs etc. are above your cut.

    Cut it at the length you want it to be.

    If you want to carry books and heavy items, use a heavier and larger shirt.

    If it's just for clothes or beach items, any shirt would work.

    Cut a straight line across.

    Using a pencil or chalk and a ruler to get a straight line.

    Don't throw away the sleeves though.
  2. Step 2: Turn the shirt inside-out and make sure the lower hem is at the top.

    This will be the top of the bag.

    Notice how it is already sewn for you. , Use a double stitch for support. ,, Do not cut the sleeves shorter than they already are.

    Cut a straight line where the curve for your armpit stops.

    Make sure the bottom it all straight.

    One sleeve is good for both straps. , This will result in one piece of flat fabric. , This divides it into two straps.

    Make sure both are equal in length and width. , Press the sleeves flat.

    This step is optional. , Make sure your bag is still inside out while you are sewing. ,
  3. Step 3: Sew the bottom cut together.

  4. Step 4: Press all seams.

  5. Step 5: Cut the sleeves for straps.

  6. Step 6: Cut the sleeve open.

  7. Step 7: Cut your sleeve in half lengthwise.

  8. Step 8: Sew hems on both straps for a clean finish.

  9. Step 9: Sew your straps on your bag.

  10. Step 10: Turn the bag right side out and use.

Detailed Guide

Make sure all buttons/zippers/designs etc. are above your cut.

Cut it at the length you want it to be.

If you want to carry books and heavy items, use a heavier and larger shirt.

If it's just for clothes or beach items, any shirt would work.

Cut a straight line across.

Using a pencil or chalk and a ruler to get a straight line.

Don't throw away the sleeves though.

This will be the top of the bag.

Notice how it is already sewn for you. , Use a double stitch for support. ,, Do not cut the sleeves shorter than they already are.

Cut a straight line where the curve for your armpit stops.

Make sure the bottom it all straight.

One sleeve is good for both straps. , This will result in one piece of flat fabric. , This divides it into two straps.

Make sure both are equal in length and width. , Press the sleeves flat.

This step is optional. , Make sure your bag is still inside out while you are sewing. ,

About the Author

K

Kayla Hughes

A passionate writer with expertise in lifestyle topics. Loves sharing practical knowledge.

106 articles
View all articles

Rate This Guide

--
Loading...
5
0
4
0
3
0
2
0
1
0

How helpful was this guide? Click to rate: