How to Make a Recycled Mylar Balloon Tote

Mylar balloons can provide a instant supply of cheer to any birthday party. But afterwards, they just as quickly deflate into a wrinkled heap, and find themselves thrown into the trash. With a little bit of craftiness, however, these countless balloons need not suffer such a short life span. In fact, deflated mylar balloons can be turned into ideal vessels for another cause for celebration: candy.

Things You'll Need

• Mylar balloon
• Scissors
• Cord
• Ribbon
• Sewing machine

Instructions

1. Cut off the bottom third of the balloon. If you find yourself with an oversized mylar balloon, - larger than your average tote bag - you will have to cut the balloon down to size accordingly. Cut carefully, so that you do not cause any unnecessary damage to the material in the process.

2. Lay out two lengths of ribbon or cord, just underneath the new seams, on both sides of the balloon. These ribbons shouldn't be more than about half an inch in width, but should still be strong enough to hold the weight of the balloon after it has been filled with candy. You may be able to fashion ribbons out of the leftover one-third of the balloon, which you cut off in Step 1.

3. Fold in the seams of the balloon, so that they fully overlap the ribbons laid out in Step 2. They should overlap the ribbons with at least an extra quarter-inch to spare. Leave an opening at either end to allow the cords to enter and exit, and tie off your cords to form handles.

4. Stitch the folded seams over your cords, with a sewing machine. Your stitching should secure your cords firmly into place, so that they don't tug the mylar unnecessarily. Only stitch a quarter-inch from the edge, however, so that the stitching doesn't tear through the material when the bag is finally put to use.

5. Use your tote with care. Although it comes loaded with its own brand of re-purposed charm, mylar is not sturdy enough to withstand extreme use or excessive weight. Mylar balloon totes are ideal, however, for one-time gift bags, and especially for holding candy.

Tips & Warnings

• To increase the life span or your tote, you may want to consider lining the inside of your bag with a more durable material, like a small section of felt.

• Discontinue use of your tote bag as soon as it shows sign of wear and tear. Mylar is flimsy enough that even a slightly torn bag can tear open all at once, spilling its contents.