How to Make Green Bags
Green, reusable bags are the latest trend in eco-friendly shopping. Depending on your personal shopping habits, a single green bag could help you save more than 350 paper or plastic bags from ending up in landfills in just one year. Make a statement and save some money by turning ordinary, disposable plastic bags into durable, expandable and fashion-forward green bags. Basic knitting or crocheting knowledge is required.
Things You'll Need
- Plastic bags
- Large knitting or crocheting needles
- Fishing Line
- Sewing needle (optional)
Instructions
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1
Collect and save several thin plastic bags from grocery and retail stores. Try not to rip, tear or stretch your bags. If desired, you can collect from stores that feature bags in specific colors or patterns.
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2
Cut your plastic bags into several long strips, about 2 inches wide and as long as possible. Thinner plastic bags should be cut into wider strips, about 3-4 inches across.
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3
Tie the ends of your plastic bag strips together, using double knots for strength. If you prefer, you can melt the ends together using a clothes iron. Place the ends of two plastic strips, slightly overlapping, between two sheets of wax paper. Iron for a couple seconds until bonded.
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4
Knit or crochet the plastic strips --- using over-sized needles --- into two, 24 inch by 24 inch squares. Place these squares together and sew together three of the four edges using a doubled piece of plastic string.
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5
Knit or crochet a second piece, 3 inches by 26 inches, using the remaining plastic strips. Tie both ends of the strip to the left and right corners of your green bag, on the open side to form a handle. Use heavy-duty fishing line, and tie several times to ensure the handle is strong enough.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not machine wash. Wash your green bag by dunking it in a sink of soapy water, rinsing and setting out to dry. Cleanse while washing dishes to save water.
For an even stronger handle, sew a strip of cloth onto your green bag using fishing line.
Your green bag will not be able to handle small items, such as coins, because they are likely to slip through the openings.
