Upcycled Chicken Feed Bag Shopping Tote: Easy DIY Tutorial

Updated at: 26/05/2025

Tired of overflowing landfills and the constant stream of plastic bags clogging our environment? There's a fantastic way to repurpose those sturdy chicken feed bags into something surprisingly useful and stylish: a reusable shopping tote! These bags, often overlooked for their potential, are incredibly durable and surprisingly water-resistant, making them perfect candidates for a quick and easy DIY project. Not only will you be contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle by reducing waste, but you'll also create a unique, personalized tote bag that stands out from the crowd. Forget those flimsy plastic carrier bags; you’ll be proud to showcase your eco-friendly creation at the farmers market or your local grocery store.

This simple upcycling project requires minimal supplies and only basic sewing skills, making it perfect for beginners. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a complete novice, you'll be amazed at how quickly you can transform a discarded chicken feed bag into a practical and attractive shopping tote. Ready to get started on your upcycled masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below and learn how to create your own unique and sustainable shopping bag.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Empty chicken feed bag
  • Scissors
  • Sewing machine
Safety Guidelines
  • Thoroughly clean the feed bag before use. Remove any residual feed or dust to prevent attracting pests or transferring contaminants to your groceries.
  • Inspect the bag for any holes or weak areas before cutting and sewing. Reinforce these areas with extra stitching or fabric patches for durability.
  • Avoid using feed bags that have contained treated or potentially toxic substances. Look for bags clearly labeled as containing only grains or feed suitable for animal consumption.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preparing the Bag

    • Determine the desired size of your tote and cut the feed bag accordingly. For a smaller bag, cut shorter.
    • Turn the bag inside out.
    Turn the bag inside out.Turn the bag inside out.
    Preparing the Bag

  2. Shaping the Bottom

    • Fold in the bottom corners to create a triangle shape, making the bag roomier.
    • Trim off the excess fabric from the bottom corners.
    Trim off the excess fabric from the bottom corners.Trim off the excess fabric from the bottom corners.
    Shaping the Bottom

  3. Creating the Top Seam

    • Fold down the top edges and sew them together to create a clean seam.
    Fold down the top edges and sew them together to create a clean seam.
    Creating the Top Seam

  4. Making the Handles

    • Cut the remaining feed bag material into long strips for the handles.
    • Fold the handle strips in half and sew them together to create sturdy handles.
    Fold the handle strips in half and sew them together to create sturdy handles.Fold the handle strips in half and sew them together to create sturdy handles.
    Making the Handles

  5. Attaching the Handles

    • Attach the handles to the bag by sewing them onto the middle of the top seam.
    Attach the handles to the bag by sewing them onto the middle of the top seam.
    Attaching the Handles

  6. Finishing Touches

    • Trim any loose threads.
    • Turn the bag right side out.
    Turn the bag right side out.Turn the bag right side out.
    Finishing Touches

Read more: DIY Plastic Gallon Candy Basket: Upcycled & Adorable!

Tips

  • Use a larger feed bag for a bigger tote. Adjust the cutting size to your preference.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Cutting the bag incorrectly

Reason: Improper measurements or cutting along uneven lines leads to a misshapen or unusable tote.
Solution: Carefully measure and mark your cutting lines using a ruler and marker before cutting.

2. Ignoring the feed bag's texture

Reason: Failing to reinforce seams or handle attachments on a coarse or fragile bag results in tearing or weak points.
Solution: Use strong stitching, double seams, and reinforcing fabric for handles and stress points.

3. Neglecting to clean the bag thoroughly

Reason: Residual feed dust or debris can stain clothing or create an unpleasant odor in the finished tote.
Solution: Wash the feed bag thoroughly before starting the project and allow it to dry completely.

FAQs

What type of chicken feed bag is best for this project?
Look for bags made of a durable, woven polypropylene. Avoid bags that are too thin, ripped, or heavily soiled. The heavier the bag, the more durable your tote will be.