So, it was time to for a new set. My requirements? I wanted to make something sturdy, inexpensive and a little fun. Grocery shopping doesn't have to be boring. BACON - I'd be a vegetarian if bacon grew on trees is one of the five sayings I painted on my bags.
Materials
- 2/3 yd burlap
- thread
- Simply Spray Soft Fabric Paint or Krylon indoor/outdoor spray paint
- stencil
- 1 yd - 1 inch wide nylon strapping
- lighter
Directions
Begin by washing and drying the burlap. If you have never worked with it before, check out my posts about How to Cut Burlap and Sewing Burlap for a few tips and tricks.
Fold the short ends over 3/4" (wrong sides together) press and pin. These will be the opening of the bag.
Use some sort of a zig zag stitch 3/8" from the edge of the fabric across the fold. My two favorite stitches for burlap are the arrowhead stitch and the elastic overlock stitch.
Remove the pins.
Now it's time to paint your design onto the burlap. Remember, you still have unfinished edges on your fabric, so handle it very carefully so it doesn't unravel.
I made my own stencils with funny food sayings using heavy textured cardstock on my Silhouette Cameo. You can also purchase pre-made stencils at your local craft and hobby store. They come in many different designs.
Make sure to work in a well ventilated area and protect your work surface while you paint.
Let the paint dry before you do any more sewing.
This next part is a little tricky, but don't worry, you can handle it. In one of the bottom corners of the bag, pin the side seam to the pressed fold on the bottom of the bag (right sides together) press and pin.
With your zig zag stitch, sew a line between the two pins. It should be perpendicular to the side seam.
Sew and trim the other bottom corner of the bag in the same way.
Turn your bag right side out.
It's time to cut the handles and use some fire. Yes, I said fire.
Cut two 15" long pieces of nylon strapping. The ends of the nylon straps will fray if you do not finish them before attaching them to your bag. You can use a serger or even a narrow zig zag stitch to do this, but there is an easier way.
Hold the strap a few inches from the end so you don't burn your fingers. Start your lighter.
Pin the handles to the top of the bag so that they are 1 1/2" from the top of the bag and 4 1/2" from the side seams.
Don't forget your new bag next time you head to the store.
As an added bonus, many retailers deduct $0.05 from your purchase for each bag you use. So, in addition to generating less waste with plastic shopping bags, using your own bags will also generate a little cash in your pocket.