DIY Reusable Shopping Bag: Easy Sewing Tutorial

Updated at: 11/05/2025

Tired of plastic bag clutter and wanting to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle? Then crafting your own reusable shopping bag is the perfect solution! This simple DIY project allows you to express your creativity while significantly reducing your environmental footprint. You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to transform inexpensive fabric into a stylish and sturdy bag, perfectly sized for your grocery runs or farmers market trips. Forget flimsy, disposable alternatives; create a durable, personalized bag that will last for years to come.

This tutorial will guide you through the process of making your own reusable shopping bag, step-by-step, using basic sewing skills and readily available materials. Whether you're a seasoned sewer or a complete beginner, you'll find this project both rewarding and accessible. Let's get started and ditch those plastic bags for good!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Fabric (at least 16 inches wide, 40 inches long)
  • Scissors
  • Ruler
  • Iron
  • Sewing machine
  • Thread
  • Buttons (optional)
  • Elastic (optional)
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use sharp sewing scissors and needles to avoid injury. Handle with care and keep away from children.
  • Ensure fabric edges are properly finished (serged, zig-zag stitched, or folded and stitched) to prevent fraying and ensure bag longevity.
  • Choose strong, durable fabric suitable for carrying groceries. Avoid delicate or easily-torn materials.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Materials

    • Main body (16 inches x 40 inches), Pocket (6 inches x 12 inches x 2), Strap (5 inches x 26 inches)
    Prepare the fabric pieces: Main body (16 inches x 40 inches), Pocket (6 inches x 12 inches x 2), Strap (5 inches x 26 inches)
    Prepare Materials

  2. Hem Main Body

    • Fold and iron 1 inch hems on both short sides of the main fabric.
    Hem the main body fabric: Fold and iron 1 inch hems on both short sides of the main fabric.
    Hem Main Body

  3. Make the Straps

    • Fold the strap in half lengthwise, iron, and sew the edges together.

  4. Make the Pocket

    • Fold the pocket fabric in half, mark an inch from the side, and sew.
    Prepare the pocket: Fold the pocket fabric in half, mark an inch from the side, and sew.
    Make the Pocket

  5. Attach the Pocket

    • Place the pocket on the main body, aligning the top edges. Sew.
    Attach the pocket to the main body: Place the pocket on the main body, aligning the top edges. Sew.
    Attach the Pocket

  6. Sew Bag Body

    • Sew the top and bottom lines of the bag body.
    • Sew the side seams of the bag, leaving the top open for turning right side out.
    Sew the side seams of the bag, leaving the top open for turning right side out.
    Sew Bag Body

  7. Attach the Straps

    • Fold the straps in half, mark the center, and attach to the top of the bag, leaving a 2-3 inch gap for turning.
    Attach the handles: Fold the straps in half, mark the center, and attach to the top of the bag, leaving a 2-3 inch gap for turning.
    Attach the Straps

  8. Turn and Finish

    • Turn the bag right side out and press the seams.
    • Fold and stitch the bottom of the bag for a clean finish.
    Fold and stitch the bottom of the bag for a clean finish.
    Turn and Finish

Read more: Sew a Lined Expandable Storage Bag: Easy Tutorial

Tips

  • Use any fabric of your choice.
  • Ensure all fabric pieces are aligned correctly before sewing.
  • Pressing seams after sewing creates a neat and professional finish.
  • Use a quarter inch seam allowance for all seams.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Seam Allowance

Reason: Inconsistent seam allowance throughout the bag leads to a sloppy and unprofessional-looking finish.
Solution: Use a seam guide or marking tool to ensure a consistent seam allowance of 1/2 inch or your chosen measurement.

2. Ignoring Pre-Washing Fabric

Reason: Fabric shrinkage after washing can dramatically alter the size and shape of your finished bag.
Solution: Pre-wash and dry your fabric before cutting and sewing to prevent shrinkage issues.

FAQs

What materials do I need to make a reusable shopping bag?
You'll need fabric (cotton is a good choice), sewing thread, scissors, pins, a sewing machine (or needle and thread for hand-sewing), and measuring tape. Optional additions include ribbon or bias tape for handles and iron-on interfacing for added strength.
How long does it take to make a reusable shopping bag?
The time it takes depends on your sewing skill and the complexity of the design. A simple bag can be made in under an hour, while more elaborate designs might take a couple of hours.
Can I use different types of fabric?
Yes! Many fabrics work well, including cotton, canvas, linen, and even sturdy quilting cotton. Avoid extremely stretchy fabrics, as they might not hold their shape well.