DIY Beach Towel Totes

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By Rachel Derry
Staff Writer LIFamilies

Now that summer’s here, counting down the days until your next beach day? How about a fun, DIY project to keep you occupied during the wait? If you're a fellow beach bum, you know the benefits of finding that perfect beach tote; there’s plenty of room for everything you'll need to carry; it stands up to the sun, ocean spray and passing summer shower; and, of course, it doesn't cost you an arm and a leg. This summer, why not retire your favorite old beach towels and turn them into totes for your family to continue enjoying this season and for summers to come.

Start by choosing your favorite big beach or bath towel that has seen better days (or a favorite, new CHEAP towel that you found while at your favorite big name store). This material will be perfect for a beach and summer tote that is water resilient and dyes back to exactly how it started!

You'll want to start by folding a little more than 1/3 of your beach towel over itself. Then you will topstitch along the two edges; leaving the top third free, as a protective flap (messenger bag style).

Next, tuck the flap into the bag. Cut two 12 inch by 1 inch lengths of sturdy nylon or canvas material, whatever you find in your local craft or material store, to act as your handles. Fold your first handle in half, lengthwise, and sew each end to the top edge of the outside of your tote bag. Make sure to reinforce the ends by sewing a square with an X of stitches. Follow the same steps for the opposite side, being careful not to put any of your stitches through the top flap.

You now have a fresh and sturdy beach tote; flaunting your own personality and style; acting as a pillow if stuffed with your clothes, and protecting your items against the sun and weather with its thick, terry cloth cover flap.

Long Island Fashion Articles > DIY Beach Towel Totes