First of all, I have to admit that this is not my original idea. I’ve seen many versions of this on Pinterest.
But after going through the kids clothes and coming up with 2+ garbage bags full to pass along to a friend, it inspired me to keep a couple school shirts for this project.
This project couldn’t be an easier. I turned the shirt inside out then stitched the bottom closed. Next was the box pleat to create a flat bottom. Basically you sew perpendicular to the bottom seam at each corner. You end up with a triangle of fabric that is not usable bag space. Gosh, I think I’m making that more complicated than it really is!! Here’s a link that shows the process if I just confused you.
Anyway…then I turned the shirt back right side out and cut off the sleeves and made a scoop cut at the neckline. No pattern just start cutting. We all know what a plastic handle bag from the grocery or discount store looks like….that’s what you are going for in shape.
All in all, not too shabby for a few minutes work. It saved a couple of shirts from the rag pile since they’d likely never be worn again.
Little J claimed the lime green one as soon as she returned home. It was her shirt to begin with so now it will continue to serve her in a different capacity.
looks great, halle!! cute bags!!!
What a great project…bet you can’t stop once you get going!
I saw something similar making a bag out of an old sweater (it might have been felted..I forget now)
you make sewing sound easy ;)
oxo
Great idea, Halle! I sure have some t shirts laying around that won’t be worn again.
This is a really, really cute project. I would never have been able to cut so straight. Guess that’s why I tear everything, and this is definitely NOT a project you can tear. It was fun to watch and read how you made it, though.
BTW, that e-mail addy is for your eyes ONLY.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE this idea. These would make great grocery bags! Put a little cardboard in the bottom for extra strength and all good. Much better than spending money on those bags in the store they sell.
This is a great idea for some easy shopping bags! I tend to bring some along, but sometimes forget, … t’would be easy to have some of these in the car, just in case!