3 Best Tips to Remove Vinyl from a Tote bag

So you’ve got a tote bag with vinyl lettering that you want to change, or maybe you’re just wondering how to easily remove print from tote bags. 

I’ve got you covered! In this blog post, I’ll share three simple methods to remove heat transfer vinyl from tote bags. 

And don’t worry, even if it seems like the design is permanent, there’s still hope – these methods are easy and effective.

I get commissions for purchases made through some of the links in this post. There is no extra cost to you. See my full disclosure here.

Avoid Mistakes with HTV

Before we dive in, let’s talk about how to avoid making mistakes with heat transfer vinyl (HTV) in the first place. By using the right tools, you can prevent issues down the line.

Removing Heat Transfer Vinyl: 3 Easy Methods

There’s more than one way to remove heat transfer vinyl, but I’ll focus on the easiest and most straightforward methods. Sometimes a good product alternative is necessary, especially if you’re short on time. However, if you prefer to avoid chemicals, I have options for you as well. Let’s dive in!

1. Gently scrape the vinyl

You can try gently scraping the vinyl off your tote bag using:

• An exacto knife
• A razor
• A pair of craft scissors

2. Use a vinyl remover

Vinyl remover is a chemical solvent that removes vinyl from textiles and fabrics. Most vinyl remover products come in liquid or gel form.

Some of the best decal removers include:

• AlbaChem VLR Heat Transfer Vinyl Letter Remover – No. 1020
• Goo Gone

Goo Gone even comes in a spray bottle, which might make it easier to use.

3. Follow these steps to remove vinyl from your tote bag

Pro Tip: Make sure you are in a well-ventilated space and wear gloves and safety glasses to protect your hands and eyes.

1. Before starting, always test a small area of the totebag. You don’t want to damage your tote bag.
2. Turn your tote bag inside out so that the vinyl is on the opposite side.
3. Pour the vinyl letter remover solvent directly onto the fabric or pour the solvent onto a dry cloth and dab the cloth on the fabric. It may smell like rubbing alcohol, but it dries fast, and the smell goes away quickly.
4. Turn your tote bag back to the right side and start peeling off the vinyl where you applied the solvent. It should peel away very easily.
5. Repeat if necessary. If you still have some residue, pour a little more solvent onto a cloth and rub it out.
6. Let it dry, then wash the tote bag by itself using the recommended care instructions on the tag.

To see it in action, check out this TikTok video on revamping a kid’s tote bag.

@alittlecreativity

Revamping this bag! I screwed up on the lettering and my daughter has been using it. I decided to give it some TLC. #a_little_creativity #wordpartybag

♬ I’ll Be There for You (TV Version with Dialogue) – The Rembrandts

Conclusion

There you have it! Three simple methods to remove vinyl from your tote bag. 

Whether you want to change the design or simply remove the print, these tips will get the job done. If you’re working on t-shirt projects, check out my post on the must have supplies to make a t-shirt. 

If you liked this tip, save it to your craft tips board on Pinterest for later.

Do you have any other tips to remove vinyl? Let me know in the comments!