How to Make a Tote Bag from Old Jeans Quickly | Miarti🧵, by Miarti - Clever Sewing on YouTube. 2 min 54 s.
- Video length
- 2 min 54 s
- Time to do it
- 30 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Wash and dry the jeans, then cut them open along the inner leg seams so the fabric lies flat.
Cut two matching rectangles from the denim for the bag body. A common size is about 35 by 40 cm, but pick what suits you.
Cut two long strips from the leftover denim for the handles. Make each about 8 cm wide and 60 cm long.
Fold each handle strip in half lengthwise with the right sides facing in, and sew along the long open edge.
Turn the handles right side out and press them flat with an iron.
Place the two bag panels right sides together and sew down both sides and across the bottom with a straight stitch.
Turn the bag right side out and press the seams. Fold the top edge over twice and sew it down to make a clean hem.
Pin each handle to the top of the bag, about 8 cm in from the side seams, and sew a square with an X inside it to secure it.
Trim loose threads, turn the bag right side out and press it once more.
Tips and common mistakes
Use a denim needle in your sewing machine so it can handle the thick fabric without breaking.
Backstitch at the start and end of every seam so the bag and handles do not come apart.
Sew the handles on with a square and an X inside it, since a single line of stitching will pull loose over time.
Keep your fingers away from the needle and unplug the machine before changing the needle.
Questions
Can I make this without a sewing machine?
Yes, but it takes longer. Use a strong hand stitch like a backstitch and denim or heavy-duty thread, and sew the handles on very firmly.
What part of the jeans works best for the bag?
The back panels and the wide leg sections give the largest flat pieces. Avoid the waistband and thick side seams if you want easier sewing.
Do I need to line the bag?
No, denim is strong enough on its own. Add a cotton lining only if you want a cleaner inside finish or extra pockets.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
