Crafts | Repurposed | Sew
Upcycled Skirt to Zipper Pouch
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Back when I was doing all the sweater upcycling, Sweater Sleeve Easter Cups and Repurposed Sweater Valentine’s Pillow, I saw this skirt at the thrift shop. I immediately fell in love with the pattern (maybe because it was January and yucky cold).
It was marked down for clearance. I used to feel badly buying clothing from the thrift store that someone could wear just to cut it up.
- 3 Reasons to Shop at Thrift Stores and Not Feel Guilty
- How to Go Thrift Store Shopping and Not Feel Guilty
I’m not sure why it was marked down, the fabric is gorgeous. It doesn’t show in the pictures, but it’s a very fine woven pattern so the fabric is very smooth and crisp.
I’m sure you’re starting to doubt me because I’ve been trying several sewing projects recently, but I’m REALLY not a seamstress. I had to take 15 minutes to figure out how to change to the zipper foot for this project (and the actual foot change takes about 4 seconds). So, if I tell you that I could tackle this project twice, then anyone can do it.
I found this great tutorial at Noodlehead for sewing an open wide zippered pouch. Her instructions are very clear and easy to follow really.
Skirt Upcycled to Pouch
It took me about 30 minutes to sew the first bag. But that was probably because it’s the first time I’ve ever sewn a zipper!
I’m thrilled with the way the first one turned out. My oldest teen daughter quickly claimed this one, so I’ll take that as proof of success.
I sat in the glow of the oldest teen daughter’s compliment for about 2 minutes until I realized I’d better make another one quick for my younger teen daughter!
20 minutes later, Whew, crisis averted! My youngest daughter also grabbed up her bag and ran with it.
And she didn’t even notice that somehow I sewed the tail of the zipper into the bag on the second one (can you tell on the back bag, top right side?) Still not sure how it happened, but the bag works and looks just fine.
So, not only did I learn how to sew a zipper into a pouch, but I earned a rating of two happy teen daughters with this one. That makes me a happy mama.
More easy sewing projects from thrifted clothing:
- DIY Rice Heat Packs from thrifted pants
- Easy t-shirt pillow from a thrifted t-shirt
- DIY Laundry Bag from pillow cases
I’m a mom of 3, a veteran and military spouse. I’ve moved into 20+ homes all around the world. My passion is helping busy people make the space and time for what’s really important to them.
Genius!! They turned out so cute and pretty!! I’ve been looking for a little makeup bag for my purse but I either don’t want to spend the outrageous amount they are asking for one or I don’t like the pattern. This is an awesome idea!! Thanks so much!!
Love it!
Honestly, you are the Queen of recycle! This bag is so cute! Here is my question – when do you find the time to do all of these wonderful crafts?
Thank you for linking up to the In and Out of the Kitchen party! I am always excited to see what you bring!
Cynthia
They turned out really cute!
Very cute idea! I love re-purposing things :)What a great fabric find! I need to make a couple of these for my diaper bag…
Heidi
So clever! And they look adorable! I popped over from Practically Functional–thanks for sharing!
~Abby =)
I have this same skirt at home and now will be sewing it into bags.
Thanks.
Super cute, I love that skirt/fabric!
I know, I almost regret cutting the skirt up. But it wasn’t my size (or at least I keep telling myself that)
Love your pouches. No more digging to the bottom for change or cards. No more disorganization.
Thanks, Wendy. There are so many organizing uses for pouches, aren’t there?
I love to recycle anything! These are some great ideas! Thanks!
I love to recycle (almost) anything, too, Shari. 🙂 Have fun sewing.
I’m just curious…..
Your post doesn’t have instructions, right? Or am I just missing them?
Do I go to the ‘open wide zippered pouch’ tutorial to find the instructions?
If so, then thank you for posting that link.
Yes, follow the link to the Noodlehead open wide zippered pouch tutorial.