In an effort to be more “green” one thing that I started doing a while back was using my own reusable produce and shopping bags. I decided that since I got some positive feedback on them that I should post a tutorial. These are simple even for a beginner sewer and are easy on the pocket. I made a total of 10 in a couple hours and spent $1.50.
What you need:
Sewing machine
Thread
2 yards Tulle type material (Mine specifically is petticoat netting. I found it at JoAnn’s for $1.49/yard and had a 50% coupon.)
1/2″ Wide Ribbon
Safety pin
This is the petticoat netting. To cut, I left it folded in half as it was on the bolt. I then folded in half again lengthwise and cut in increments of 16″. You should end up with pieces measuring 16″x 26″ and double thickness.
You can see where the original fold is on the left side. I then pinned the right side to keep from moving and pinned 1/2″ on either side of the 13″ mid mark.
**All my stitching is zig zag set at widest width and short stitch**
Stitch along right open side, across bottom to first pin. Then pivot and sew following the pins.When you reach the end of the fabric back stitch and move presser foot to the next pin
Fold over 1/2″ and be sure to catch the folded edge while stitching all the way around.
Close up. This is going to provide a basic casing for our ribbon drawstring.
Sew around all edges starting BELOW ribbon casing you just created. Line up the needle so the right side of the zig zag barely gets the edges of the fabric. This will give a nicer finish.
DO NOT SEW THROUGH CASING!
Along a side seam of the casing, use a seam ripper to cut a few mesh squares. (You just need enough space to fit a safety pin.
Great trick to threading strings, ribbons and elastic through casing. Secure a safety pin in one end and use that to push it through the casing. It will save you SO much time!
Bring the ribbon back out the same hole you went into and tie into a very tight knot. Now you won’t loose the ribbon back into the casing and it gives you a super quick and easy drawstring bag for your fresh produce.
Please leave a comment if there’s a specific tutorial you’d like to see soon!
I’m a creative young mom, wife and entrepreneur loving life in rural Idaho and having a crazy time filling it with laughter and handmade treasures.
Visiting via The Southern Institute. This is a GREAT idea!! I have never considered making a produce bag before. I am adding it to my Pinterest in hopes of making one soon.
very cute! new linky follower! I have been looking for something.. i hate using plastic for produce but i hate all of my produce sitting on the cart! thanks, laura@imnotatrophywife.com
I’ll be able to do this soon… right now I save the produce bags and use them for soiled diapers.
Thanks for sharing this at The DIY Dreamer ~ From Dream To Reality!!!
Christine xoxo
This is such a great idea and very green. Thanks for sharing at Whimsy Wednesday with The NY Melrose Family.
What a great idea! I’m definitely pinning this for future reference. Your newest follower – megan
This is a great idea! I am going to try it as soon as I unpack my sewing machine.
Brilliant! I have a whole bolt of tulle left over from my daughters wedding. Thanks for sharing such a great idea. Cheers.
I saw another bag but it was made of muslin – I love the use of the tulle – now cashier can see what is in the bag – YAY