How To Turn Old T Shirts Into Reusable Shopping Bags In 5 Easy Steps

Every year, millions of plastic bags end up in landfills and oceans, contributing to environmental pollution. One simple way to reduce this impact is by reusing what’s already in your closet: old t-shirts. Instead of discarding worn or outdated shirts, transform them into sturdy, washable, and stylish reusable shopping bags. The best part? You don’t need any sewing skills or special tools. With just a pair of scissors and a few minutes of time, you can create an eco-conscious alternative that carries more than groceries—it carries a message of sustainability.

This guide walks through five practical steps to convert your unused cotton tees into functional tote bags. Whether you're crafting for yourself, making gifts, or teaching kids about upcycling, this project is accessible, cost-effective, and rewarding.

Why Upcycle T-Shirts Into Reusable Bags?

Cotton t-shirts are made from tightly woven fabric that naturally resists tearing under moderate weight. When repurposed into a bag, the material forms a flexible yet durable carrier capable of holding books, produce, toiletries, or daily essentials. Unlike synthetic alternatives, cotton breathes and can be washed easily, extending its usable life.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), textiles account for over 17 million tons of municipal solid waste annually in the U.S. alone, with less than 15% being recycled. By upcycling instead of discarding, individuals contribute directly to reducing textile waste while also cutting down on single-use plastics.

“Small acts of reuse, when multiplied across communities, lead to measurable environmental change.” — Dr. Lena Patel, Sustainable Materials Researcher at Green Futures Institute

Creating a reusable bag from an old t-shirt takes fewer than 20 minutes and requires zero investment beyond materials you likely already own. It's one of the most accessible entry points into sustainable living—especially for those new to DIY projects.

Step-by-Step Guide: Turn Old T-Shirts Into Reusable Shopping Bags

Step 1: Choose the Right T-Shirt

Select a cotton-based t-shirt that’s clean and free from major stains or holes. Medium to large sizes work best because they provide ample fabric for both the body and handles. Avoid stretchy blends with high spandex content, as these tend to lose shape quickly when loaded.

• Fabric: 100% cotton or cotton-polyester blend (minimum 60% cotton)
• Size: Large or XL for larger capacity; small/medium for produce or lightweight use
• Design: Graphic tees make great statement bags; plain ones allow for custom decoration later

Tip: Use dark-colored shirts for heavier items—they hide dirt better and show less wear over time.

Step 2: Cut Off the Sleeves

Lay the shirt flat on a table with the front facing up. Using sharp fabric scissors, cut along the seam lines where the sleeves meet the body. Follow the natural curve of the armhole to remove each sleeve cleanly. This opens up the side panels and creates space for wider straps later.

Be precise but not overly cautious—a slight jagged edge won’t affect functionality. Once both sleeves are removed, you’ll notice the shoulder seams remain intact, forming a strong upper structure that will support the bag’s load.

Step 3: Remove the Neckline and Create Handles

Now focus on the collar. Cut straight across the top of the shoulders, removing the entire neckline. Start from one shoulder seam, cut horizontally across the back, and finish at the opposite shoulder. Discard the collar piece.

You now have two open shoulder areas. From each of these, cut downward toward the hem to form two long strips—these will become your bag handles. Make sure both cuts are even and about 1–1.5 inches wide. Don’t cut all the way to the bottom; stop around 4–5 inches above the shirt’s hem to maintain structural integrity.

The resulting loops will stretch slightly when used, so avoid making them too narrow. Wider straps (up to 2 inches) offer more comfort when carrying heavy loads.

Step 4: Fringe the Bottom Edge for Knotting

Flip the shirt inside out. At the bottom hem, begin cutting vertical slits every half-inch along the entire width of the shirt. Each slit should be approximately 1.5 to 2 inches long, creating a fringe effect. Aim for 15–20 evenly spaced strips depending on the shirt size.

These fringes will be tied together to close the bottom of the bag. Precision isn't critical here—slight variations add character. However, ensure all cuts reach roughly the same depth to promote even knotting.

Tip: If the fabric curls when cut, gently stretch the edges outward before tying knots to keep the base flat.

Step 5: Tie the Knots and Finish the Bag

Take the first two adjacent strips from the left side and tie them together in a double knot. Repeat with the next pair, moving rightward across the hem. Continue until all strips are knotted, forming a secure base. For extra durability, consider tying each set twice or adding a drop of fabric glue after knotting (optional).

Once tied, flip the bag right-side out. Gently tug on the handles and base to test strength. Your reusable shopping bag is now ready for use.

To reinforce longevity, wash the finished bag before first use to pre-shrink the cotton and set the knots. Air dry or tumble dry on low heat.

Do’s and Don’ts When Making T-Shirt Totes

Do	Don’t
Use 100% cotton shirts for maximum durability	Use thin or heavily worn fabrics that may tear
Wash and dry the shirt before starting to prevent future shrinkage	Cut unevenly spaced fringes that could weaken the base
Double-knot the bottom strips for added security	Overload the bag beyond 15–20 pounds without reinforcement
Decorate with fabric paint or iron-on patches after completion	Use synthetic adhesives that may degrade fabric over time

Real-Life Example: A Community Upcycling Workshop

In Portland, Oregon, a local library hosted a weekend “Trash to Tote” event aimed at promoting sustainability among families. Volunteers brought in dozens of donated t-shirts, scissors, and gloves. Over two days, 47 participants—including children as young as eight—created personalized reusable bags using the no-sew method described above.

One attendee, Maria Thompson, shared how she turned her son’s outgrown band tees into grocery bags. “I was about to donate them,” she said, “but now I use one every time I go to the farmers market. People always ask where I got them—they’re conversation starters.”

The library reported a noticeable increase in patron interest in recycling programs following the workshop. Staff noted that hands-on activities like this helped demystify eco-friendly habits and encouraged long-term behavior change.

Enhancing Your T-Shirt Bags: Tips & Customization Ideas

While the basic design works well, small modifications can improve function and aesthetics.

• Add a lining: Insert a lightweight fabric liner or repurpose a pillowcase to prevent small items from falling through knotted gaps.
• Reinforce handles: Braid multiple strips together or wrap duct tape (fabric-covered) around high-stress points for heavier-duty use.
• Personalize it: Use fabric markers, stencils, or embroidery thread to add names, slogans, or patterns.
• Create compartments: Sew or tie off sections inside to separate fruits from bread or cold items from dry goods.
• Compact storage: Roll the bag tightly and secure with a rubber band; store in a purse or car glove compartment.

Tip: Store your finished bags in a cool, dry place to prevent mildew, especially if made from 100% cotton.

Checklist: How to Make a No-Sew T-Shirt Tote

1. Choose a clean, medium-to-large cotton t-shirt
2. Lay shirt flat and cut off sleeves along armhole seams
3. Cut across the top of the shoulders to remove the neckline
4. Cut downward from shoulders to create two handle strips (stop 4–5 inches above hem)
5. Flip shirt inside out and cut fringe strips along the bottom hem (~1.5 inches long)
6. Tie adjacent fringe pairs into double knots across the base
7. Turn right-side out and test strength
8. Wash and dry before first use

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wash my t-shirt shopping bag?

Yes. Machine wash in cold water and air dry or tumble dry on low. Avoid high heat, which can weaken cotton fibers over time. Washing also helps tighten the knots at the base.

How much weight can a t-shirt bag hold?

A standard no-sew t-shirt tote can safely carry 15–20 pounds, depending on fabric thickness and knot strength. Heavier loads like canned goods or bottles should be distributed across multiple bags. For frequent heavy use, consider braiding the handles or reinforcing the bottom with stitching.

Do I need to sew the bag to make it last longer?

No—knots are surprisingly strong when properly tied. However, if you have access to a sewing machine, stitching the bottom closed instead of knotting adds durability and gives a cleaner look. You can also zig-zag stitch the handle edges to prevent stretching.

Conclusion: Start Small, Think Big

Transforming old t-shirts into reusable shopping bags is more than a craft—it’s a quiet act of resistance against throwaway culture. Each bag you make replaces dozens, if not hundreds, of plastic carriers over its lifetime. And because the process is simple, scalable, and satisfying, it invites others to join in.

Imagine clearing out your drawer of faded concert tees and turning them into something useful, beautiful, and meaningful. These bags aren’t just containers; they’re symbols of creativity, care, and conscious consumption.

💬 Ready to start upcycling? Grab three old t-shirts today and make your first batch. Share photos with friends or host a DIY session—small actions spark big movements.