T-shirt Totebag

Sometimes you have T-shirts that you don't like to wear anymore. I had a few where I didn't like the fit but I still loved the logo, so this project allows me to continue to show them off! I have done both the sew and no sew version of this project with many students at my after school Maker club. It is appropriate for ages 5-14.

For this project you will need:

No Sew Version:

• T-shirt
• Circular item (I used a plate).
• Chalk.
• Scissors

Sew Version

• T-shirt
• Circular item.
• Chalk.
• Scissors
• Thread
• Sewing Machine (The can be sewn by hand as well, but you must be careful of the strength of your seam. Bag seams take quite a bit of stress.)

Cut off your sleeves as close to the seam as you can.

Fit your circular object around the neck of the t-shirt. Draw around it with the chalk.

Cut around your chalk line. You can just wipe off the remnants of the line afterwards.

Turn your shirt inside out. Cut strips through both sides of the bottom of the t-shirt. Ensure that your strips are about 1 cm in width.

Starting at one side, take two groups of strips that are side by side (4 strips). Tie them in a tight knot, and then tie again.Continue this all the way across the bottom of the shirt.

Turn your new totebag right side out and fill it with your favourite things!

For the sewn version I cut off the hem. Turn inside out. Sew straight across the bottom. I do a double seam.

Turn your t-shirt right side out and enjoy!

I love these bags. I love that you can wash them. I love that I am upcycling and enjoying it! My students all love this project as well.