Introduction: Say goodbye to flimsy plastic bags and hello to stylish, reusable shopping bags that you can make yourself! These reversible bags are not only fashionable but also large and sturdy enough to hold two gallons of milk each. Plus, when they get dirty, simply toss them in the washing machine and dryer for easy cleaning.
Materials Needed:
- 1 1/2 yards of 44″ wide cotton fabric (main color)
- 1 1/2 yards of 44″ wide cotton fabric in a coordinating color/pattern (lining)
- Disappearing fabric marker
- Sewing supplies
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Fabric: Before you begin, wash and dry your fabric to pre-shrink it.
2. Cut Your Fabric:
- From each piece of fabric, cut four 20-inch squares and two 6 x 20-inch rectangles.
- Note: This is enough fabric to make two shopping bags.
3. Sewing the Bag:
- Place the 20-inch squares of bag fabric and lining fabric, right sides together, and pin.
- Stitch around three sides of each square with a half-inch seam allowance.
- Press the side seams open.
4. Creating the Bag Bottom:
- Fold the side seam to the bottom seam of the bag, right sides together, and align the seams.
- Use a ruler to measure 3 1/2 inches from the corner and draw a line with a disappearing fabric pen.
- Pin along the line and stitch. Trim off the corner.
- Repeat this process for all corners to create a rectangular bag bottom.
5. Making the Straps:
- Fold each 6 x 20-inch rectangle in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, and press.
- Fold the edges to the center line and press again.
- Fold the piece in half lengthwise and stitch along both long edges.
- Fold the top of each bag piece over by one inch and press.
6. Attaching the Straps:
- Mark six inches from the side seams on the outside of the bag with a disappearing fabric marker.
- Align the outer edge of the straps along the marks, with the ends going one inch into the bag. Pin in place.
- Place the second strap on the other side of the bag in the same manner.
7. Finishing the Bag:
- Insert the lining into the outer bag so that the wrong sides are together.
- Pin around the top of the bag.
- Stitch around the top of the bag twice, once 1/8 inch from the edge and once 1/2 inch from the edge.
8. Final Touches:
- Your reversible shopping bag is now complete! Keep them handy in your car for grocery trips or use them for any shopping needs.
Conclusion: By making your own reusable shopping bags, you’re not only reducing waste but also adding a touch of style to your outings. With these spacious and durable totes, you can say goodbye to single-use plastic bags for good!
Author’s Note: Get creative with your fabric choices to make bags that reflect your personal style. Experiment with different prints and colors to create a collection of unique and eco-friendly shopping companions.
