I love upcycling! It’s a creative way to breathe new life into household items that might otherwise be forgotten. For this project, I transformed an old tablecloth into a functional and fashionable tote bag, perfect for errands, shopping, or gifting.
Upcycling is an eco-friendly approach that reduces waste while creating something meaningful. For example, turning a tablecloth that once hosted countless meals into a trusty tote bag can bring sustainability and sentimental value to your sewing project.
Materials You’ll Need:
- One medium to large-sized tablecloth (cotton or linen works best)
- Matching Thread (or contrast up to you!)
- Fabric scissors or Rotary Cutter and Cutting mat
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Heat erasable pen (or marking tool of your choice)
- Pins or clips
- Sewing machine with a Blind Hem Foot
- Optional: Buttons or embellishments for decoration if your tablecloth doesn’t have a pattern.
Let’s Talk Tablecloth!
The tablecloth you choose is key to the success of this project. Look for durable fabrics like cotton or linen that can carry weight but are still flexible enough to sew easily.
If your tablecloth has stains or damage, cut around those areas. You’ll need enough fabric for the tote body and straps, so plan accordingly. If the tablecloth is small, combine it with fabric from your stash or opt for a smaller tote. Tablecloths with embroidery or unique designs make for beautiful feature panels. The options are endless!
Let’s dive in!
Cutting Instructions
TIP! Pre-wash and iron your tablecloth before starting to avoid shrinkage and ensure smooth cutting.
1. Measure your desired tote bag dimensions directly onto the fabric. You will need two rectangles for the front and back and two strips for the handles. To make things easier, fold your fabric so the bottom of the bag is on the fold, eliminating the need for a seam and making it stronger. Pin your fabric to stop it moving as you mark and cut.
2. Cut out your body piece/pieces. For a 1-inch strap, cut two strips 2 ½ inches wide and approximately 22–26 inches long, depending on your preferred strap length.
***(My bag measurement for a medium-sized tote is 16 ¾ inches wide by 16 ½ inches long.)
Sewing Instructions
1. Sew the Body
- Pin the body pieces with the wrong sides together. Sew along both sides with a ⅜-inch seam allowance. Press the seams flat, then trim the seam allowance to half its width.
- Turn the fabric so the right sides are together. Sew another seam along the sides with a ½-inch allowance to create French seams, which neatly encase the raw edges.
- Press the seams flat again, turn the bag right side out, and press to set the shape.
2. Create the Handles
- Take the two strips for the handles and press a ⅜-inch fold along both long edges.
- Fold the straps in half lengthwise so the folded edges meet and press.
- Stitch along both long edges close to the fold using the blind hem foot for precision.
3. Attach the Handles
1. Turn the bag inside out. Fold the top edge down ½ inch and press, then fold it down another 1 inch and press again.
2. Insert the raw ends of the straps into the folded hem, ensuring they’re evenly spaced. Pin them securely.
3. Sew along the folded hem using the blind hem foot.
4. Flip the straps upward and sew along the top edge of the bag to reinforce the attachment.
Finishing Touches:
Turn your bag right-side out and press. Voila, you have a new tote bag! To customize your creation, consider these ideas:
- Embellishments: Add embroidery, fabric paint, or decorative buttons for a unique touch.
- Reinforcement: For carrying heavier items, sew a lining or add interfacing for extra structure.
- Size Variations: Experiment with different dimensions to create grocery totes, gift bags, or smaller everyday bags.
If you have a large tablecloth like mine, you can make additional totes to gift or create matching mini bags for smaller items. This project is a wonderful way to reduce waste while crafting something practical and personal.
Transforming a tablecloth into a tote bag is a rewarding upcycling project that combines creativity, sustainability, and practicality. By reusing materials you already have, you create something unique and eco-conscious. So, grab that tablecloth that’s been sitting in a drawer and turn it into your next go-to tote bag!
Love this. I have tons of scraps and am going to try it tomorrow!
Love your site and your creativness.