No-Sew T-Shirt Tote Bag

Turn old T-shirts into reusable tote bags with this easy no-sew tutorial! A fun, eco-friendly upcycle project perfect for all ages!

finished T Shirt Tote with pool supplies

Next time you’re thinking of tossing some old T-shirts, turn them into cute, reusable tote bags instead!

This no-sew T-shirt tote bag is one of the easiest (and most satisfying) DIY projects you can make. It’s quick, kid-friendly, and totally functional—perfect for grocery trips, beach days, or storing toys and craft supplies.

Plus, since it’s made from soft knit fabric, your new tote is durable and washable. Win-win!

What You’ll Need

An old knit T-shirt
Scissors
Pencil for marking

How to Make a No-Sew Tote Bag

Step 1: Prep your shirt
Lay your T-shirt flat on a smooth surface and smooth out any wrinkles. Decide how deep you want your tote bag to be, then mark that spot with a pencil. Add 2-3 extra inches below that mark—this will become your fringe for tying the bottom closed.

Step 2: Cut the bottom
Cut straight across the shirt at your mark. This will determine how tall your tote bag will be.

cutting the neck and sleeves of a t shirt to make a tote

Step 3: Trim the top
Cut out the sleeves and neckline to create the bag’s opening and handles. Try to leave about 3 inches of fabric at the shoulders—this keeps your straps strong and sturdy.

cutting fringe on the bottom of a t shirt

Step 4: Create the fringe
Line up the front and back of the T-shirt and cut vertical strips about ¾ to 1 inch wide and 2 inches long along the bottom edge. Cut through both layers at once so your ties match up evenly. Snip the side seams so the fringe pieces are separate.

Step 5: Tie it up
Turn the shirt inside out. Tie each front and back fringe pair together with a double knot to close the bottom. To reinforce and close any small gaps, tie adjacent fringe pairs together as well. (If you’re not worried about tiny holes, you can skip this step.)

tied fringe on a t shirt to seal it up and make a bag

Step 6: Flip and admire
Turn your bag right side out—and that’s it! You’ve got yourself a sturdy, reusable tote made from something you already owned!

finished t shirt tote with sunscreen and a towel sticking out

Tips for Success

Thicker, high-quality T-shirts make sturdier bags.
Crop tops or kids’ shirts make adorable mini totes.
You can customize your bag with fabric paint, iron-on patches, or tie-dye before cutting!