Material
Fabric
A worn pillowcase, canvas offcut, or pair of jeans can become something worth carrying.
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Choose fabric for the job: tightly woven cotton is approachable for hand sewing; denim or canvas can make a durable pocket but may need a heavier needle. Check worn areas before trusting them with a load. Wash and dry reused fabric first.
Keep useful hems, seams, and pockets when cutting up clothing. A small patch can reinforce a handle attachment, become a pocket, or cover a damaged area. Absorbent cotton can also carry water as a wick; test the actual cloth rather than assuming every fabric will do it.