The Katies are wrapping up the summer with some fun bag DIYs.
First, Katy’s kicking it all off with a reversible shirt tote bag.
For this project, you’ll need:
- A sewing machine
- An iron/ironing board
- Tote bag for reference
- Roller cutter or scissors
- Two shirts or one shirt and extra fabric
- Pins
Step one: Turn on your iron and set it to the correct setting for your shirt’s fabric. Iron your shirts, or any fabric you plan on using.
Step two: Cut the torso of the shirt to the size of tote you want. You can use a tote bag you already have to create the size of your bag. Once you do that, flip your fabric inside out.
Step three: Grab your pins and your tote bag. Lay your tote bag on top of your fabric and pin your fabric around the sides your tote bag. This will help when you’re creating the shape of your bag, and where you need to sew.
Step four: Once you’re done pinning, sew alongside your pins. You should have a tube shape when you’re done.
Step five: Take your pins and pin the bottom of your shirt, which will be your bag’s bottom. Sew the bottom of your bag.
Step six: Cut the extra, with a 1/4 seam allowance.
Step seven: Cut a small square on the bottom of your bag on each side. This will create a flat bottom for your bag.
Step eight: Match the bottom and the sides together and pin them. Sew along that line to create a triangle to finish up your bottom.
Step nine: Repeat steps three through eight for the lining of your bag.
Step ten: Now let’s start on your straps. Use any extra fabric from your shirt or other fabric and cut a 6 inch strip.
Step eleven: Fold that strip in half and iron it to make a crease. Then, fold the two sides to the crease and iron. Fold your sides in one more time and iron. This will make a sturdy strap with now raw edge.
Step twelve: Pin the strap of your fabric together and sew along both sides of the strap for a neat look.
Step thirteen: Now, attach your strap to the inner lining of your bag. Fold the lining down, and pin the straps to your desired length and location. Make sure they’re even on both sides. Sew together.
Step fourteen: Once that’s done, slip your liner inside your shirt, match the seams together, and pin. Then, sew together the two fabrics, and you’re done!
