Turn a t-shirt into a homemade tote bag that you can gift to a friend or keep for yourself! Get creative, grab a old t-shirt or vest, some pens, a pair of scissors and anything else you want to use to decorate your bag!
World environment day
The first World Environment Day took place on June 5th in 1975. After this, it has taken place on the same day every year since. Governments, businesses and citizens discuss issues affecting the environment. The environment is in need of protection from damage done by burning fossil fuels, polluting the seas and other human actions. We can have an impact in many different ways including:
- recycling,
- saving water,
- repairing clothes rather than buying new
- flying less
- campaigning for system change
- eating less meat
- upcycling
- what other ways can you think of?
Plastic is extremely damaging to the environment with at least 8 million tons of it ending up in the ocean each year. The impact is detrimental to sea life, wildlife as well as contamination within water supplies.
What you will need:
- An old T-shirt or vest top
- Coloured pens (non-washable. Fabric pens if you have or permanent markers work too!)
- Scissors
Instructions
Firstly, it is easiest to start by putting your design on your t-shirt. Lay out the clothing flat on a hard surface. Now is the time to get your creative juices flowing and get your message on your fabric. You can make your design however colourful you like. You could decide to just draw pictures about why it’s important to protect our environment or write a message with words.
Once you have your design and message you are ready to start shaping your bag! Cut out the arms (if using a t-shirt) and cut round the neck line.
Cut the bottom of the shirt vertically (upward toward the neck of the shirt), creating small lines about 4cm up. This will be how we attach the bag together to hold all your goodies!
Next, grab the two strips that are in line with each other to make it as secure as possible. With your pair of strips together, knot them with a standard knot. It’s best to make 2 or 3 knots to make sure that it is tight and sturdy.
Now you’re done and you have turned an old t-shirt into a funky, environmentally friendly tote bag. You can now use on your next trip to the supermarket or gift to your friend and your message will be spread to those who see your bag.
Take it further
Find out more about World Environment Day and how else you can get involved and raise awareness about the importance of protecting our planet.
If you want to try other activities that are focused on learning more and raising awareness on the climate crisis check out our Climate and Ecological Emergency activities and resources page.
