Cargo non-embargo! – Men’s cargo shorts upcycled into a reversible bag

These were my hubby’s cargo shorts. Sure, they had some good laughs, a couple of capers, a story for the campfire. Overall, good times had.

Then one day, they had a falling out. Actually, my hubby’s backside fell out. Needless to say, they parted ways.

Like the dentist’s niece in Finding Nemo, I was like “GIMME! GIMME! GIMME!”

Then this materialized!

Upcycled camo cargo shorts into reversible bag

And here’s what the inside looks like. It’s from scrap fabric from a curtain.  Both fabrics are a thicker material so I opted for no interfacing.

I wanted to make a bag that was not the typical-run-of-the-mill tote. Don’t get me wrong, I love the tote as much as the next gal, however, I was looking for something more “handbag-y” or “purse-y” and less “tote-y”**. I found this amazing pattern on Pinterest  on http://verypurpleperson.com (a very lovely blog about sewing). Consequently, I was inspired.

Reversible bag

Using the pattern available on the site, I generally followed the same directions provided with a few modifications. The cargo shorts weren’t quite long enough to accommodate the straps of the bag. I cut separate pieces for the straps, sewed them on to the main body of the bag and top-stitched the seam.

Mind you, I had to cut one of the straps for each side of the bag on the bias which to some purist sewists is a no-no because you don’t want your straps to stretch and get distorted. But I say, down with antidisestablishmentarianism, and just do it! Besides, my lining fabric is pretty sturdy in that of itself, so I made a judgment call and went for it. I’ve been using the bag for a few days now and I haven’t had any issues with the straps becoming distorted or seams coming undone.

Because of the bulkiness of the pockets, it is important to leave a larger gap in one of the straps so that turning the right sides out doesn’t rip the seams in the process. The instructions suggest at least 20 cm for a gap. If you want to use cargo shorts like mine, I suggest 25-30 cm.

My bag has 7 pockets! Seriously, even the pockets have pockets. I didn’t sew a single one. It’s insane, I know.

4 pockets here!

3 pockets here!

As any true upcyclist would tell you, don’t forget to save the notions. I salvaged a good button and a zipper.

I’m feenin’ for another pair of cargo shorts to cut up! For the next bag, I think I’ll make the straps just a couple of inches longer as I would like it to hang a bit longer under my arm. Other than that, I love this design!

**If you’ve ever wondered what the difference between a handbag and a purse is as I have, there isn’t one, unless you’re hoity toity. And then the answer is “about a thousand dollars”. A tote is a really large pouch.