Inspiration is where you find it! Lisa inspired me big time!
When I saw her pieced tote bag of recycled plastic I had to try my hand at this alchemy. Lisa's pieced version is spectacular. Once I found this giant sunflower graphic, I was reluctant to slice it up. It took two hours to transform the 50 lb. seed bag into a usable tote. I added an outside pocket on the back side of the bag for grocery lists, etc.My trusty Singer Featherweight sewed through all the layers without too much difficulty. For hard use I would probably use sturdier handles like Lisa used, but I was anxious to finish it and take it to guild where I was doing a program on "repurposed " items from thrift stores. Most everything else I showed was quilt-related, but this tote was a big hit. Thanks, Lisa!
Here are a few "how to" ideas: Thanks for your positive responses. Yes, I have used it as a quilt tote. I easily put two large wallhangings in the bag without crushing them. No tutorial, but some basic instructions. To start, decide which part of the graphic you want to feature. Use your paper-dedicated rotary cutter to avoid dulling your best blade. Because I prefer bags that stand alone I started on the bottom of the bag. By tucking in the sides (like wrapping the end of a package), I made a flat bottom. I did have to sew these two spots by hand using heavy carpet thread. The rest was done by machine. I tucked the bag down to get the height I wanted, trimmed and sewed a double seam around the top. Handles: use your judgment. For light use, the trimmings from the bag worked on this tote. For heavier use, the purchased (or recycled) strapping like Lisa used makes sense. Please post any pictures of your bags. I'd enjoy seeing the chicken feed totes when completed.
