In the wake of the recent environmental crisis, buying sustainable products has become more and more important. The fashion industry produces a staggering 90 tonnes of textile waste every year. That number is set to increase by around 60% in the following years.
This textile waste usually ends up in landfills, where it contributes to pollution and habitat destruction for endangered animals. Not only that, but these landfills are a major source of the world’s methane emissions, contributing to air pollution as well.
Old tote bags make up a large part of the clothing waste that ends up polluting the environment. So, to help combat the waste, manufacturers have started recycling them into new accessories. Because of the rising interest in sustainable fashion, these tote bags have become a smash hit with the public.
People use them as eco-friendly accessories or to carry around their groceries. Some brands have even employed custom printed bags to raise brand awareness during sale seasons. While it’s common to buy ready-made bags, it’s also possible to custom design bags for different purposes. Using different materials and a whole slew of creative designs, individuals and brands alike can create the perfect tote to suit their style and protect the environment!
Make Some Creative Tote Bags With Recyclable Materials
A good tote bag can be an invaluable fashion accessory. It can not only complete an outfit but accurately reflect an individual’s unique style. Therefore, it’s imperative for buyers to find the perfect tote design to suit their tastes.
However, sometimes, stores don’t have that perfect tote to match the buyer’s vision. In that case, the better option would be to custom design the tote using different recycled materials. That shoppers can get their dream tote bag, get in touch with their creativity, and save the environment.
While the sky’s the limit when it comes to tote designs, there are a few basic styles that newbies can rely on!
1. Standard Rectangular Tote With Straps
When most people think of totes, the first that comes to mind is that classic, rectangular bag with straps such as the Savoy Organic Natural Cotton Shopper. This is the most basic tote design and is known for its appealing look and practicality. Rectangular totes are easy to make, requiring minimal to no sewing skills. Plus, the shape is compatible with a wide range of materials, from old jeans fabric to cotton or jute. Therefore, even amateurs can use them as practice to develop their sowing skills.
The average person can make the standard tote bag in around 15 steps or less. All they need to do is cut several rectangular shapes out of their chosen fabric, making sure they’re of the same size. They should also set aside some of the fabric to make the straps. Afterwards, they can use a sewing machine to stitch the rectangles together, making sure to mitre the corners.
Once the body and straps have been stitched together, they can use more threads to sew a beautiful decoration on the front. Rhinestones or even printed images are also an option, depending on the material and intended purpose of the bag.
2. Structured Tote
A structured tote is a step above the basic rectangular tote. These totes have a much sturdier shape and can normally hold more weight. Plus, they usually come with an inside pouch and a plethora of inner pockets for storing various essentials. All this is to say that they’re slightly trickier to make than the standard rectangular tote.
They also require more material to make the front and back, as well as the bottom, sides, and handles. However, the good news is that these bags are just as versatile as the standard rectangle. They’re compatible with a wide range of materials and are easy to customise with unique stitching patterns.
3. Quilted Totes
When it comes to eye-catching designs, nothing beats the quilted tote bag. Manufacturers make these accessories by stitching and stuffing the cloth so that it forms diagonal patterns. As a result, these bags have a stunning look that can complement any killer outfit.
But beyond aesthetics, the diagonal patterns are also functional. Most quilted totes are just as sturdy as structured bags. However, despite having more substance, the stitching makes them incredibly lightweight and easy to close. Thus, they don’t even need a zipper at the front.
This tote design is ideal for a wide range of occasions, especially for corporate trade shows. The distinct stitching makes these bags the perfect tool for broadcasting a company logo. Sadly, that recognisable design is also what makes these totes much harder to make. So while amateurs can take their shot at making it, it’s better to leave this design to those with sewing experience.
4. Recycled Wrapper Totes
Since plastic wrappers are such a huge pollutant, environmentalists have been pushing to find new ways to dispose of them. Clever fashionistas have come up with a solution by repurposing old wrappers into handbag materials!
This stunning tote design is the definition of sweet creativity. Depending on the shape and style of the wrappers, they can create a bag with a beautiful multicoloured front and a stunning pattern. But fair warning — these bags are a labour of love. They require a lot of work cleaning the wrappers, piecing them together into workable pieces, and then stitching them into a bag.
But, the colourful result is definitely worth the effort!
5. Small Shopping Totes
Everything is cuter in miniature — and totes are no exception. A small handbag with a custom print on the front is a real show stopper. It can complete a casual outfit and broadcast a brand logo like nobody’s business.
Also, it’s very simple to make. It requires fewer materials than a bulky rectangular tote and less time to stitch. It’s also standard to decorate the front with hassles, fringes, and embroidery for an extra flare!
6. Denim Tote
As a material, denim is famously durable. However, even the most high-quality jeans break down after years of wear and tear. But that doesn’t mean they should end up in the trash.
Old denim makes an excellent material for tote bags. The material is sleek, aesthetically appealing, and works great for casual bags. Plus, the embellished pockets make for a nice design detail that can make the front pop.
Plus, since denim is very resistant to tears, all denim bags like the Harlow Denim Shoppers are likely to last the wearer years to come. It’s recycling at its finest, with just a dash of style!
7. Water-Resistant Totes
All Brits know just how finicky the weather can get in the UK. Therefore it’s imperative to have accessories that are resistant to the elements. Fortunately, it’s possible to use water-resistant materials to create a beautiful custom tote.
Vinyl, rubber, and plastic are great options for fashioning handbags. Though they require a bit more skill to stitch, they make for incredibly resistant handbags that are very easy to clean. On the plus side, they’re highly customisable.
All three materials have a sleek shiny surface that’s compatible with most printing techniques. Consequently, companies can use them to display their brand to countless fashionistas eager to show off their unique style to the world.
Related content:
Get Your Brand Noticed With Full Colour Printed Tote Bags
Final Thoughts
Buying a tote is nice and easy — but custom-making one is even better! Custom-made totes are the ultimate way to express creativity and individual style. While it takes a bit more effort and skill to craft an accessory, the payoff is more than worth it.
Plus, it allows the makers to recycle old materials and reduce the amount of waste they produce. It’s the perfect solution to the pollution that fast fashion causes while also providing a useful product that can last for years to come!
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Check out our full collection of personalised bags which includes foldable shoppers, drawstring bags, backpacks, and sports bags. You may also view our list of promotional best-sellers if you haven’t yet. If you require further information or have any specific questions, don’t hesitate to give a member of our experienced team a call on 0800 0148 970 or simply email us today.
