DIY Beach Tote from Garden Flags

Budget-Friendly Summer Project

I'm excited to share one of my favorite summer projects that's not only budget-friendly but also incredibly simple - perfect for crafters of all skill levels! We're transforming ordinary garden flags into a vibrant, eye-catching beach tote that's ideal for sunny days at the shore or casual shopping trips.

What I love about this project is that it requires absolutely NO sewing skills (we're using glue instead!) and creates a personalized bag that looks like you spent a fortune at a beach boutique. The thick material of garden flags makes them ideal for tote bags, and with just a few supplies, you can create something truly special in under an hour.

I created this while enjoying the gorgeous views from Coronado Island, and I'm thrilled to share this simple technique with you. This project is so simple a monkey could do it! Let's get started!

Materials Needed:

• 2 garden flags with the same design

• Plain canvas tote bag (Hobby Lobby, $4.99)

• Fabric Mod Podge

• Way Bestie fabric glue

• Hot glue gun and glue sticks

• Decorative ribbon

• Pom-pom trim or "dingle balls"

• Decorative key ring or charm (optional)

• Iron-on or adhesive stencil (optional)

• Fabric paint or paste for stencil (optional)

• Small iron

• Scissors

• Wax paper or parchment paper

Step 1: Prepare Your Garden Flags

Before cutting your flags, apply a generous amount of Fabric Mod Podge along all the edges where you'll be cutting. This prevents the fabric from fraying and makes for clean edges. Let it dry slightly (it doesn't need to be completely dry) before cutting.

Tip: If you're using a garden flag with a specific design or text, plan your cuts carefully to feature the most attractive part of the design.

Step 2: Cut Your Garden Flags

Measure and cut your garden flags to fit the front and back of your tote bag. Leave about 1.5 inches of extra material on all sides so you can fold it over the edges of the bag. This gives your project a clean, finished look.

Don't worry about being too precise - the decorative ribbon we'll add later will hide any minor imperfections!

Step 3: Create Finished Edges

Apply Fabric Mod Podge to the inside fold of each flag where it will fold over the edge of the bag. Fold the edges under to create a clean hem. Place wax paper over the folded edge and iron it down to secure the fold.

Let it cool completely before moving on to the next step. This gives you nice, crisp edges that won't fray over time.

Step 4: Attach Flags to Tote Bag

Position your prepared garden flag pieces on the front and back of your tote bag. For a secure hold, use hot glue along the seams and edges of the bag. The hot glue works particularly well for attaching the flags to the seams of the bag where other adhesives might not hold as strongly.

Pull the fabric tight as you go to avoid any wrinkles or bubbles.

Step 5: Add Decorative Ribbon

Cut decorative ribbon to fit along the top edge of your tote. I used black and white striped ribbon for a nice contrast against the colorful flag design. Apply Way Bestie fabric glue along the ribbon and press firmly onto the bag where the garden flag meets the tote.

Repeat this process along the bottom edge of the garden flag if desired. The ribbon adds a professional finishing touch while securing any loose edges.

Step 6: Secure Ribbon with Heat

For extra security, place wax paper over your ribbon and iron it down. The heat helps activate the glue and ensures proper adhesion. This step makes a huge difference in the durability of your project!

Allow it to cool completely before handling.

Step 7: Attach Decorative Trim

Add pom-pom trim or "dingle balls" along the top edge of the bag using Way Bestie fabric glue. This fun element adds texture and visual interest to your tote.

Press the trim firmly into place and allow adequate drying time.

Step 8: Add Embellishments

This is where you can really personalize your tote! Attach any additional embellishments like decorative key rings, charms, or tassels using hot glue or fabric glue.

I added a cute beach-themed key ring that not only looks adorable but can also be functional for the owner to attach their keys.

Step 9: Add a Stenciled Message (Optional)

For an extra special touch, position a stencil on the bottom of the bag and apply fabric paint or paste according to the stencil instructions. I used a mesh stencil with the phrase "I am very busy" for a fun, ironic beach bag message!

If your stencil doesn't adhere well to the canvas, use painter's tape to hold it in place.

Step 10: Final Touches

Let everything dry completely according to the glue manufacturer's instructions before using your new tote bag. Once dry, fluff any trim, straighten ribbons, and admire your beautiful creation!

The Finished Product

Your gorgeous new beach tote is ready to use! The best part? No one will ever guess it started as garden flags. The thick, durable material of the flags makes this bag perfect for carrying beach essentials, shopping treasures, or even craft supplies.

This project makes a wonderful gift for friends heading on vacation or a treat for yourself before your next beach trip. You could even create matching totes for a girls' getaway!

Variations and Ideas

• Holiday Themed: Use seasonal garden flags to create themed totes for different holidays. I'm planning a Fourth of July version next!

• Personalized: Add a monogram stencil to customize the bag for yourself or as a gift.

• Wedding Party Gifts: Create matching totes for bridesmaids filled with beach essentials for a destination wedding.

• Child-Sized: Use smaller flags and totes to create matching parent-child beach bags.

I hope you enjoyed this simple yet effective upcycling project! Let me know in the comments if you try it and what designs you choose for your tote bag. Happy crafting!