What can you create with old bags?

If you do a quick reconnaissance, you'll surely discover some old, unusable bag in your closets or drawers. Why throw it away or leave it to rot? With just a little creative recycling, you can transform it into a new and useful object: a wallet, a pair of earrings, a belt, a couple of patches. Or even a plant pot holder or a plant pot cover. Don't underestimate a very simple solution: cut up the bag, hang it on the entryway wall, and use it as an organizer for keys, mail, and small everyday items.

Earrings

If you're a little handy or enjoy wearing unique accessories , you can salvage some intact parts from ruined bags and use them to create earrings, bracelets, and necklaces. To make the pendants in the photo, simply cut out some leaves, make a hole at the top, insert the earwire (the hook you'll need to wear them), and that's it.

Belts

You can recycle old bags by making a beautiful belt . It's easy: their straps are already pre-drilled, often with holes. Just go to a shoemaker and have the strap you like applied.

Patches

Colorful bags made from soft fabrics lend themselves perfectly to patches . Patches can be applied to clothing, old jeans , or applied to cushions or other furnishings. Experimentation is a must.

Wallet or pencil case

You can even make wallets or pencil cases from old bags . Simply cut out the pieces and assemble them to fit, and with a little sewing and a zipper, you'll have a new accessory. Unique and original because it's made by hand.

Drawer and cabinet containers

Without much effort, you can use the bag as a storage unit for closets or drawers . You can store anything in it, from accessories to underwear, keeping it dust-free (especially if the closet is open or you have a walk-in closet).

Plant pots and plant pot covers

Both faux leather and fabric bags lend themselves to practical and functional plant pot covers . These, too, require some cutting and sewing, but the result is truly refined.

Magazine racks and remote control holders

Again, old bags, perhaps reupholstered in a more suitable fabric and placed on the sides of a sofa or armchair, become roomy magazine racks . With smaller bags, you could also consider turning them into remote control holders.

Leash and collar for the dog

With a bag strap , if made of a sturdy material, you can make leashes for your four-legged friends. It's probably nothing more banal, but it's certainly useful. Think of how many shoulder straps you've thrown away over the years and how much money you could have saved. Practical and economical, it allows you to unleash your creativity. You can embellish it with various appliques.

Suitcase Tag

You can also use part of the bag (if it's thin) to create classic luggage tags , which are labels you can hang on the handle and write down your name, surname , and contact information in case your bag gets lost. Useful and original.

Read also:

• Bottle Cap Bags: 5 DIY Ideas
• DIY beach bags
• Summer Carry-Along Bags: 10 Ideas

Cover photo by Debora Cardenas on Unsplash