Transform an Old Shirt into a Stylish Messenger Bag with These Simple Steps – How to Make a Messenger Bag Out of a Shirt

Do you have a favorite shirt that’s seen better days, but you can’t bear to part with it? Instead of letting it languish in the back of your closet, transform it into a stylish and practical messenger bag! This DIY project is a fantastic way to give your old clothes a new life, reduce textile waste, and express your unique style.

Gathering Your Supplies

Before you embark on your upcycling journey, ensure you have all the necessary materials. Here’s a list to get you started:

• A large, sturdy shirt: A button-down shirt with a crisp fabric like cotton or linen will work best. Avoid using shirts with delicate fabrics like silk or lace.
• Scissors: Sharp scissors are essential for precise cutting.
• Sewing machine: A sewing machine will make the process much faster and easier. However, you can also sew by hand if you prefer.
• Sewing thread: Choose a color that complements your shirt.
• Measuring tape: This will help you determine the dimensions of your bag.
• Safety pins: These are helpful for temporarily holding the fabric together while sewing.
• Fabric glue (optional): This can be used to secure seams and prevent fraying.
• A sturdy strap: You can use an old belt, a length of fabric, or purchase a pre-made strap.
• Optional embellishments: You can add buttons, zippers, or other embellishments to personalize your bag.

Preparing the Shirt

Now that you have your supplies, it’s time to prepare your shirt for transformation.

1. Lay the shirt flat: Spread the shirt out on a clean, flat surface.
2. Mark the cutting lines: Use a pen or tailor’s chalk to mark the areas you’ll be cutting. You’ll need to cut out the front and back panels of the bag, as well as the flap.
3. Cut the fabric: Carefully cut along the marked lines using your scissors.

Creating the Bag Panels

The next step is to create the front and back panels of your bag.

1. Cut the front panel: Take the front part of the shirt and cut a rectangle that’s approximately 12 inches wide and 14 inches tall. This will be the front panel of your bag.
2. Cut the back panel: Repeat the process for the back part of the shirt, creating a rectangle of the same size. This will be the back panel of your bag.

Sewing the Panels Together

Now it’s time to sew the front and back panels together.

1. Pin the panels: Lay the front and back panels right sides together. Use safety pins to hold them in place.
2. Sew the sides: Sew along the sides of the panels, leaving a gap at the top for the strap.
3. Turn the bag right side out: Carefully turn the bag inside out so that the seams are on the inside.

Adding the Flap

The flap is an essential part of the messenger bag, keeping your belongings safe and secure.

1. Cut the flap: Cut a rectangle from the remaining fabric of the shirt. The size of the flap will depend on your preference, but a good starting point is 10 inches wide and 6 inches tall.
2. Fold and sew the flap: Fold the top edge of the flap down about 1 inch and sew it in place. This will create a clean edge for the flap.
3. Attach the flap: Pin the flap to the top of the bag, aligning the raw edges. Sew the flap in place.

Attaching the Strap

The strap is what makes your messenger bag functional and comfortable to carry.

1. Choose your strap: Use an old belt, a length of fabric, or purchase a pre-made strap.
2. Attach the strap: Sew or glue the strap to the sides of the bag, making sure it’s securely attached.

Finishing Touches

Now you can add some finishing touches to personalize your bag.

1. Add embellishments: You can add buttons, zippers, or other embellishments to your bag.
2. Reinforce the seams: Use fabric glue or a zigzag stitch to reinforce the seams and prevent fraying.

Embracing Your Upcycled Creation

Congratulations! You’ve successfully transformed an old shirt into a stylish and practical messenger bag. Now you can carry your belongings with pride, knowing you’ve created something unique and sustainable.

The Final Word: A Sustainable Style Statement

Upcycling your old clothes is a fantastic way to reduce waste, save money, and express your creativity. By turning a discarded shirt into a messenger bag, you’re not only giving it a new lease on life but also making a statement about your commitment to sustainable fashion.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What types of shirts are best for making a messenger bag?

Shirts with sturdy fabrics like cotton, linen, or denim are ideal for making a messenger bag. Avoid using shirts with delicate fabrics like silk or lace.

2. Can I use a sewing machine or do I have to sew by hand?

While a sewing machine makes the process faster and easier, you can also sew by hand if you prefer.

3. How can I make my bag more unique?

You can add embellishments like buttons, zippers, or patches to personalize your bag. You can also experiment with different strap styles and colors.

4. Can I use a different type of strap?

Yes, you can use any type of strap that you prefer. You can use an old belt, a length of fabric, or purchase a pre-made strap.

5. How do I care for my upcycled messenger bag?

To care for your upcycled messenger bag, hand wash it in cold water and air dry it. Avoid using a washing machine or dryer, as this can damage the fabric.