Upcycling T-Shirts Into Bags

I have been trying out new craft stuff this year. While sorting out my clothes I came across t-shirts that I really liked but that didn’t fit me anymore. I didn’t want to get rid of them so I decided to make them into shopper bags.

The method I used is a bit of cheat I suppose. I cut the shirts to size, sew up the bottom and sides then stitch the whole thing across the top to a canvas shopping bag. This means the existing bag does still does all the work and the t-shirts essentially provide decoration.

I was inspired by my mum who had used this method a few years ago using a damaged Jerry Garcia shirt. In that case I used used sharpies and IPA to “tie dye” the handles. I don’t really recommend this however, as the colour has faded and now looks kind of grubby.

Anyway, now instead of three tight fitting but lovely t-shirts I have three very handy and fine looking shopping bags.

I feel need to add an extra note about the Bob Dylan t-shirt. It was a gift from my best friend and was originally white. I decided to tie-dye with fantastic results, so I’m extra glad to get more use out it after yet another transformation.

And not forgetting the OG Jerry Garcia one that mum made.