Upcycling ideas. Repurpose curtains. Sew a bag tutorial.
In this easy upcycling tutorial, I’ll show you how I repurposed an old curtain into a super functional bag. A friend gave me their old curtains and I’d already upcycled the majority of them into gardening tool belts. The remaining curtains I upcycled into a bag.
Curtain fabric is perfect for this type of upcycling project because it’s quite rigid and sturdy.
First I cut five pieces – two identical pieces for the front and back, two identical pieces for the sides, and one for the bottom.
The dimensions are as follows:
- two 34cm x 34cm for the front and back panels
- two 34cm x 11cm panels for the sides
- one 32cm x 11cm panel for the bottom
I used a sewing machine for this project but you could probably use iron on hemming tape and hand stitching. You’ll see that I got lazy toward the end and used iron-on hemming tape.
Next, the bottom is attached.
Sewing tip : One tip I would suggest is not to sew the corners at the same time you’re sewing the bottom to the other pieces. Once done, then sew the bottom corners on the diagonal. This gives you a nice rounded finish on the corners.
To make the handles, I used some vinyl handles that I had cut off a backpack that I had repurposed a while ago. If you don’t have anything like that, you could sew handles in the same way you would a waistband for a skirt or pants. I then sewed the handles to the bottom of the bag and top, near the opening.
And finally, I used an old calico grocery bag for the inside lining. I had to take in the side seams slightly so it fit snuggly inside. This wasn’t hard and, best of all, I didn’t have a perfect job because no one would see the lining. I couldn’t be bothered sewing this so used iron-on hemming tape to secure it in place. Quick and easy.
I love this bag. It’s functional, hardy, and best of all, cost me nothing. When I’m thrift shopping, I always look out for curtain fabric because it’s so perfect for upcycling projects.
Thanks for stopping by.
See you next time,
BEX.
How to make a tote bag video tutorial.
The benefits of sewing, mending and making your own clothes.
In an era of environmental consciousness, learning to sew and make your own clothes is more relevant and beneficial than ever.
Sewing skills not only mean saving money (more important in times of high cost of living) but play a significant role in reducing your environmental footprint.
Below are how learning to sew and utilising your existing sewing skills can make a positive impact on your life and the planet.
Learning to sew can be cost effective
Learning to sew and mend your clothes can lead to substantial savings now and in the long term.
Instead of discarding garments due to minor damages you can easily repair them yourself. Upcycling clothes gives them a new life, keeping then in the circular economy rather than going to landfill.
Making your own clothes means you can create custom pieces tailored to your style and fit. Best of all, you’ll have the satisfaction of wearing something unique, knowing you made it yourself.
Sewing reduces your environmental impact
The fashion industry is one of the biggest contributors to greenhouse emissions and environmental polluters. By learning to sew, mend, and upcycle, you actively participate in reducing this impact through waste reduction, resource conservation, and by reducing your carbon footprint.
Evolve your personal style and expression
Homemade and upcycled clothes offer a unique opportunity for personal expression where you can tailor clothes to your preference, size and design.
Sewing means you can enjoy a more meaningful wardrobe that’s filled with items that you love and cherish.
Sewing enhances creativity
Sewing fosters creativity and skill development.
Upcycling encouraging you to think creatively about how to repurpose and rejuvenate old items. Sewing your own clothes allows you to experiment with different fabrics, patterns, and designs. There are no rules!
Making something with your own hands or bringing a beloved items back to life cultivates a sense resourcefulness.
Making ethical fashion choices
By making and mending your own clothes, you align with ethical fashion principles.
Fast fashion often involves exploitative labour practices and poor working conditions. By creating your own garments or repurposing second hand clothing, you know exactly where and how they were made, promoting fair labour practices and ethical production.
Sewing is less wasteful
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, millions of tons of textile waste are generated each year.
Repairing and upcycling clothes keeps them out of landfills and often being shipped overseas and burned.
By extending the life of your garments, you contribute to lowering the environmental impact of clothing waste across the world.