diff --git a/src/components/DesignCanvas.tsx b/src/components/DesignCanvas.tsx
index 7b32844..1c8eb7a 100644
--- a/src/components/DesignCanvas.tsx
+++ b/src/components/DesignCanvas.tsx
@@ -962,6 +962,9 @@ export default function DesignCanvas({ product, isAdminEditing = false }: { prod
           setDesignApprovalId(design.id);
           setApprovalStatus('PENDING');
           setSubmissionMessage(`✓ Design submitted for approval! You'll receive an email when it's ready to add to your bag.`);
+          // Clear design elements so user can start fresh
+          setElementsFront([]);
+          setElementsBack([]);
           // Save to localStorage so status persists on page reload
           if (typeof window !== 'undefined') {
             localStorage.setItem(`designApproval_${product.id}`, JSON.stringify({