🧵 DIY Tote Bag from Old Jeans – Step-by-Step Tutorial

 Sure! Here's a detailed, step-by-step guide for a DIY Recycled Jeans Tote Bag tutorial that covers how to sew a tote bag from old jeans. This is perfect if you're interested in upcycling and want a functional, stylish handmade bag.

---

Ads

---

---

🧵 DIY Tote Bag from Old Jeans – Step-by-Step Tutorial

🧰 Materials Needed:

• 1 old pair of jeans (adult size preferred for enough fabric)

• Scissors or rotary cutter

• Sewing machine (or hand sewing needle and strong thread)

• Pins or clips

• Measuring tape or ruler

• Chalk or fabric marker

• Lining fabric (optional – cotton or canvas)

• Webbing, denim strips, or old belt for straps

• Iron (optional but helps with neatness)

• Zipper (optional, for closure or pocket)

• Seam ripper (optional)

---

✂️ Step 1: Preparing the Denim

1. Choose the jeans: Pick a pair that’s worn out, but still strong—especially around the legs.

2. Cut the jeans:

   • Lay them flat and cut across both legs just below the crotch (you’ll use the leg fabric).

   • Cut open the inner seams to get flat pieces of fabric.

3. Measure and mark:

• Decide the size of your tote. A common size is 16" wide x 14" tall.

• Use chalk or a ruler to mark two rectangles from the denim legs (front and back of the bag).

---

Ads

---

---

🪡 Step 2: Add a Lining (Optional but Recommended)

1. Cut lining pieces:

   • Use the denim rectangles as a template to cut the same size from your chosen lining fabric.

2. Optional pockets:

   • Reuse back pockets from the jeans and sew them inside or outside your tote for extra storage.

---

🧵 Step 3: Sewing the Bag Body

1. Sew the sides:

   • Place the two denim rectangles right sides together.

   • Sew along the sides and bottom using a ½" seam allowance.

2. Create boxed corners (for depth):

   • Pinch each bottom corner into a triangle (so the side seam and bottom seam align).

   • Measure about 2" from the tip and draw a horizontal line.

   • Sew across that line and trim off the triangle. Repeat on the other side.

Repeat this process with the lining fabric.

---

🪢 Step 4: Attach the Straps

1. Choose or make straps:

   • Use denim strips (about 2" wide x 24" long), old belts, or webbing.

   • Fold and sew denim strips lengthwise to make strong handles.

2. Pin handles:

   • Turn your outer bag right side out.

   • Pin each end of the handle about 3–4" from the side seams (on the inside or outside edge depending on the look you want).

   • Baste or sew handles to the bag (do not attach to lining yet).

---

🧷 Step 5: Assemble Outer Bag + Lining

1. Join the bag and lining:

   • Turn the outer bag right side out and the lining inside out.

   • Place the outer bag inside the lining (right sides facing each other). The handles should be sandwiched between the two layers.

2. Sew around the top edge:

   • Leave a 3–4" gap to turn the bag right side out.

   • Carefully sew all the way around the top, securing the straps in place.

3. Turn inside out:

• Pull the bag through the gap.

• Tuck in the raw edges of the gap and topstitch all around the edge for a clean finish.

---

🧵 Optional Step: Add Zipper or Closure

• Add a magnetic snap, zipper, or button if you want your tote to close.

• You can also sew a small zipper pouch or key ring loop inside.

---

🎉 Final Touches

• Press the bag with an iron for a crisp finish.

• Add embellishments like patches, embroidery, or buttons for a personalized touch.

---

📦 Tips:

• Use denim needle and strong thread to handle thick fabric.

• Thrift stores often have cheap jeans for upcycling.

• Mix different denim shades for a patchwork look.

• Reinforce handles with a square and X stitch pattern.

Watch video: