By :
Autumn Lockwood
Because almost all stores use them, plastic grocery bags just seem to accumulate quickly around the home. If you have been recycling them or perhaps tossing them in the trash, think again. These essentially free bags may be used for a variety of interesting, fun and occasionally profitable craft projects. Most of the time the bags are colored white, but some stores carry plastic bags in different colors. So bring out all those excess bags that you're keeping and have a great time trying out these creative and interesting craft projects. Knitting and Crocheting with Plastic Grocery Bags The plastic these grocery bags are made of is lightweight, strong, and easy to wash, allowing it to be a fantastic material for tote bags. You begin by cutting each of your bags into one-inch wide strips, trying to make each strip as long as you are able to. An additional way to cut the bag is in a spiral manner, which creates one continuous, long strip. Then you roll all your plastic strips into balls. Now, with a crochet hook or large knitting needles, crochet or knit tote bags using the strips of plastic, using a yarn pattern for directions. Be aware that your project will possibly need fewer stitches than the pattern calls for, since you are using a large hook or large needles. Simply make some adjustments as you are knitting or crocheting so you end up having the best size and shape. You might even consider selling these bags at some craft shows for extra spending money. Take some photos of the bags and display in picture frames as a example of your unique plastic crafts. Plastic Bag Stuffing It is possible to use plastic grocery bags whenever you would like a replacement for fiberfill stuffing. For example, by stuffing a pillowcase with plastic grocery bags, you are able to create a comfortable bed pillow for your special cat or dog. Some nice features of these kinds of pillows is the plastic helps to retain body heat, and cats typically love the crinkly sound. You simply stuff a pillowcase with your plastic bags, then utilize a long stitch to sew the opening shut. When it is time for you to wash the pillow, simply open the stitching, remove and discard the plastic bags, wash and dry the pillowcase, and refill it. Snap a few photos of your beloved cat enjoying his or her pillow and display them in cute cat picture frames. Jump Rope Made From Plastic Bags Plastic grocery bags can also be utilized to make fun jump ropes for kids. Cut the handles off the bag. Then, cut the bag in a spiral fashion, leaving one long string of plastic. Make three of those strips and knot all of them together at one end. Then, secure the knotted end in a drawer so that you can keep your strands taut when you braid. Braid your strips together until you are roughly 4 inches away from the end. Cut yourself three additional strips of plastic and overlap them and twist them to connect to the first strips, then keep braiding. Keep braiding and adding until your rope is considered the right length for the child, then tie a knot in the end. If you want the ends of the rope to end up being more appealing, make use of a pair of scissors to slice a fringe from the loose, tasseled ends. Make certain you don't forget to take some great action pictures of your child playing with the jumping rope, since these photos can be tons of fun to display in your home in simple round picture frames. So, if you find yourself with a pile of plastic grocery bags and you're not quite sure how to handle them, keep in mind that they can be put to good use in craft projects as opposed to ending up inside the trash can.