I love being able to convert things I already have into things that I need, especially items that would normally be thrown away. Today’s project is to recycle animal feed bags into shopping totes. Not only is there satisfaction in being self-reliant but I know it is better for the environment as well. This is a technique that we learned in 4H with the kids. I love being able to go to the store and pull out my dog/cat/chicken/rabbit/alpaca shopping bags. I actually think these bags are so cute that we have even used them as gift bags.
Recycled Feed Bag
Recycle Animal Feed Bag Shopping Tote Supplies:
Animal feed bag
Sewing Machine
Quilting triangle
Scissors
Rotary tool
Permanent Marker
Measuring tape
Tape
Various sewing supplies
Process to Sew a Shopping Tote from a Recycled Feed Bag:
remove bottom closure
The first step in preparing your bag is to remove the stitching at the bottom.
wash bags
After the bag is open on both ends, wash the outside. Next, turn it inside out and wash the inside as well. We usually wash the bags off outside. Especially if the grain had any molasses in it, as it will require a hose to get it all the way clean.
trim ends
After your bag is cleaned, you will want to trim off each end so you have a nice straight edge with no stitching marks.
cut handles
Then, cut two 2.5 inch strips off the bag for your handles. Pay careful attention to the picture on your bag as this will determine if you cut the strips from the top or bottom of the bag. The top will only fold down one inch so the picture can be pretty close to the top.