Here's a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you sew a DIY tote bag from old jeans, including instructions, tips, and a simple sewing pattern. This is perfect for beginners and intermediate sewists looking for a fun, sustainable, and practical sewing project.

🧵 How to Sew a DIY Tote Bag from Old Jeans | Full Sewing Tutorial + Pattern

♻️ Introduction: Why Make a Tote Bag from Old Jeans?

Upcycling old jeans into a stylish, durable tote bag is one of the best ways to give your worn-out denim a second life. Denim is strong, easy to work with, and its natural worn textures give your tote bag a unique, vintage look. In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to cut, sew, and finish a professional-looking tote bag using minimal materials and tools.

✂️ Materials You’ll Need:

Material	Quantity	Notes
Old pair of jeans	1 pair	Make sure the fabric is not too thin or torn
Lining fabric (optional)	0.5 yard	Cotton or canvas works well
Thread	Matching or contrasting	Heavy-duty thread for denim is best
Sewing machine	1	A jeans needle (#90/14 or #100/16) is recommended
Fabric scissors	1 pair	Sharp scissors are essential
Pins or clips	As needed	Denim is thick, so clips may be easier
Measuring tape or ruler	1	For accurate measurements
Iron	1	For pressing seams
Chalk or fabric marker	1	For marking fabric

🧵 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Jeans

Wash and dry the old jeans to make them clean and soft.
Lay the jeans flat and cut along the inner leg seams (inseams) and up the crotch to open them up fully.
Use the largest flat parts (usually the thighs and back of legs) for the main body of the bag.

Tip: Avoid seams or holes in the main body area for a neater look.

Step 2: Cut the Pattern Pieces

✂️ Bag Body (Cut 2 from denim):

Size: 16 inches wide x 14 inches tall
(Adjust size as desired)

✂️ Bottom Gusset (Optional – for boxed bottom):

Size: 4 inches tall x 16 inches wide
(You can also create boxed corners instead of sewing a gusset)

✂️ Straps (Cut 2 from denim or lining):

Size: 24–26 inches long x 2.5 inches wide
(Adjust for desired handle length)

✂️ Lining (Cut 2 of same size as bag body):

Optional but gives a clean finish

Step 3: Assemble the Bag Body

Place the two denim body pieces right sides together.
Sew around the sides and bottom edge using a ½-inch seam allowance.
If not using a gusset, box the corners by doing the following:
- Pinch the bottom corners to form a triangle.
- Measure 2 inches from the point and sew straight across.
- Cut off the excess fabric and finish the raw edges with a zigzag stitch or serger.

Tip: Press all seams open or to one side with an iron for a flat finish.

Step 4: Prepare and Attach the Gusset (Optional)

If using a separate bottom gusset:

With right sides together, pin and sew the gusset piece to the bottom edge of the front and back panels.
Then, sew up the sides of the gusset to connect it to the sides of the bag body.
Finish the raw edges to prevent fraying.

Step 5: Make and Attach the Handles

Fold each strap piece in half lengthwise, right sides together.
Sew along the long edge with a ¼-inch seam allowance.
Turn the strap right side out and press.
Topstitch along both sides for a clean, professional look.
Pin the straps to the top edge of the bag, placing each strap end about 3.5 inches from the side seams.
Baste the straps in place with a straight stitch.

Optional: Use reinforced X-stitches or bar tacks at the handle bases for extra durability.

Step 6: Add Lining (Optional but Recommended)

Sew the two lining pieces together, right sides facing, along the sides and bottom — just like you did with the outer bag.
Leave a 4-inch gap at the bottom seam of the lining (this will be used to turn the bag right-side out later).
With the outer bag right side out and the lining inside out, insert the outer bag into the lining — right sides facing.
Align the top edges and pin in place, making sure the straps are sandwiched between the layers.
Sew around the top edge of the bag with a ½-inch seam allowance.

Step 7: Turn and Finish

Pull the entire bag through the hole in the lining bottom to turn it right side out.
Push the lining inside the bag.
Press the top edge and topstitch around the top for a clean, durable finish.
Hand-stitch or machine-sew the opening in the lining closed.

👜 Optional Add-Ons

Pockets: Use the jeans’ back pockets or cut a square from leftover denim. Attach to the bag’s inside or outside before assembly.
Magnetic snaps or zipper: Add to the top for extra security.
Embroidery or patches: Decorate with hand stitching or iron-on patches.
Contrast lining: Use colorful or patterned fabric for a pop inside.

🧼 Care Instructions

Machine wash cold, gentle cycle.
Hang to dry or tumble dry low.
Spot clean as needed for stains.

✅ Summary

Creating a tote bag from old jeans is a fun, beginner-friendly project that promotes sustainability and creativity. By following this tutorial, you’ve learned how to:

Cut and prepare denim
Sew a simple bag pattern
Add straps and optional lining
Customize with pockets and extras

With a little practice, you can experiment with different shapes, sizes, and styles. These bags also make excellent gifts or even products for selling at craft fairs or online.

📏 Free Basic Tote Bag Pattern (No-Print DIY)

You can draw your own pattern using these measurements:


Tote Bag Body:
  - Width: 16 inches
  - Height: 14 inches

Handles:
  - Length: 24–26 inches
  - Width: 2.5 inches

Gusset (optional):
  - Width: 16 inches
  - Height: 4 inches

Use chalk or fabric markers and a ruler to draw these directly onto your fabric.

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