Transforming a Cosmetic Bag into a Food Tote

Cosmetic bags make for cute purses, but with some simple tweaks they can also be repurposed into handy food carriers. Whether you want to pack snacks for a road trip or carry produce home from the farmer's market, converting an old makeup bag is a thrifty way to get the job done in style. We'll show you easy ways to modify your cosmetic case into a food-safe container.

Choose the Right Bag

You'll want to start with a cosmetic bag that's machine washable and made from non-porous materials. Canvas, polyester, vinyl, leather, or nylon work well since they're easily wiped down. Avoid bags with super absorbent fabrics like suede that could harbor bacteria.

Make sure to pick a bag large enough to fit your intended food items, with a sturdy bottom and zipper. Structured shapes with flat bottoms tend to hold up better than slouchy pouches.

Before re-purposing, give the empty bag a hot wash to sterilize it. This removes any makeup residue that could contaminate food.

Add Structure

To help your bag hold its shape when filled, consider adding some body to the interior. Here are two easy options:

Insulated Foam

Cut a piece of craft foam or insulated food packaging to fit snugly in the bottom of your bag. This will make a flat, solid surface for food to rest on.

Plastic Canvas

Plastic canvas is an open grid that adds structure when sewn into fabric. Cut it to size and blanket stitch it into the base of the bag. The grid allows any leaks or moisture to drain through.

Sew in Special Lining

If you'll be carrying wet or messy foods, it's smart to replace the interior lining with a wipeable, waterproof fabric. This way spills won't seep into the outer shell.

Vinyl, laminated cotton, outdoor fabric, and some placemat materials work great. Measure the inner dimensions and sew a custom slipcover that fits neatly inside.

Upgrade Closures

The slim zippers on most makeup bags aren't ideal for frequent opening and closing. Swap out the zipper for a larger one with grab tabs, or add easy-access outer pockets.

Sew on exterior mesh pouches perfect for stashing snacks or silverware. Or apply iron-on vinyl pockets for wet items like juice boxes.

Make It Insulated

To transform your basic bag into a mini cooler, just line it with insulating material. Protecting food from heat and cold extends freshness when out and about.

Cut insulating foam, batting, or metallic space blanket material to fit all sides of the bag. Secure the insulation tightly in place by gluing and/or stitching the edges.

Now your makeup-turned-market tote is ready for fresh produce, picnic provisions, or any other edibles! Cleanup is a cinch thanks to the wipeable interior.