How to Make Small Wreaths with Plastic Grocery Bags

Plastic grocery bags do not deteriorate in our landfills, so the more ways we can find to reuse them the better. The normal ways of reusing them such as suitcases,wet bathing suit bags, etc. are all good, but this is a very unique way to create small wreaths that will last forever. Use them as gift tags,package decorations,or ornaments.
The brown plastic ones look just like straw when they are braided.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• plastic grocery bags
• assorted beads,etc.
• craft paint

1. 
    
   Beginning Braided Strip

   Choose 3 bags and one to cut pieces from for ties. Grasp the bags upside down in the center of the bottom. Put the ends together and clamp it so they won't come loose while you're braiding.
   I use binder clips, but even a large paper clip will do.

2. 
    
   Finished Braid Strip

   Make a braid, leaving about 2-3 inches loose on each end.
   Use small pieces of the fourth bag to tie the ends with.

3. 
    
   Crossed over Ends

   After braiding put the two ends together crossing them over. Tie it firmly in the center. This will create the bow.

4. 
    
   Additional Unique Wreaths

   Use scissors to trim the excess ends evenly so it looks like a bow.
   Then add any decoration you desire.
   When the wreath is painted green, the pattern of the folded plastic makes it really look like greenery.

Tips & Warnings

• Any stray pieces of plastic should be snipped before painting.
• Use ribbon or an ornament hanger to attach them to packages or Christmas trees.

[shenandoah]

on 7/19/2009 Interesting! My sister in MN recently told me about a similar project, made with strips of different colored shopping bags. I'd much rather see them re-used this way than on the side of the road or in a landfill. Good job.

[waters]

on 7/19/2009 Great idea; how to make small wreaths with plastic grocery bags.

[thesearcher]

on 7/19/2009 Pretty good idea !! 5*