As a DIY enthusiast with years of upcycling projects, I've perfected this simple transformation: turn bath towels into a versatile beach towel with an integrated pillow. The standout feature? Sturdy buttons that let you fold it into a handy bag for easy transport.
This clever beach bag includes built-in pockets for sunscreen, books, and essentials—perfect for beach days.
Best of all, this project is beginner-friendly, requiring only basic sewing skills and common materials.
- 2 terry towels (new or old, it doesn't matter)
- A spare pillow
1. Lay one towel flat in front of the pillow.
2. Trim the towel edges to fit just slightly wider than the pillow (adjust width later if needed).
3. Wrap the second towel around the pillow, leaving a strip protruding at the bottom. Save the cut pieces for handles.
4. Remove the pillow and sew the first side closed.
5. Sew the second towel along the pillow's bottom edge.
6. For the borders, sew six fabric pieces into a strip matching the towel's length.
7. Fold the strip in half lengthwise.
8. Cut it lengthwise into two equal strips.
9. Fold each strip in half and iron flat.
10. Iron a 1 cm hem on each side of the strips along their full length.
11. Sew the strips onto each side of the towel.
12. Roll the pillow and towel to position the bag's pockets and handles.
13. Pin and sew pockets on each side.
14. For handles, use the saved towel scraps. I cut mine 78 cm long and 15 cm wide—adjust to your preference.
15. Sew the handles securely.
16. Attach the buttons.
17. Sew the buttonholes to complete.
Your multifunctional beach bag—that unfolds into a towel with cushion—is complete! Simple, practical, and sure to turn heads at the beach.
