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Recycle It - Part One "Plastic Bags"

© Angelica R. Van Norman

So much of the waste that comes from our homes, comes right from the kitchen. And even though you won't be crafting with food, let's not forget the environment, and remember to craft with the containers that hold and carry our food.

Recycle It

"Plastic Bags"

There are a variety of plastic bags that you may come across as you monitor your daily additions to the trash can. From the plastic bags at the grocery mart and those covering your dry cleaned clothing, to the plastic bags holding your loaf of bread. You will be amazed at the amount of plastic that holds or protects the products we bring into the kitchen. And so...even though we won't be crafting with food, let's give a "hoot" for the environment and craft with the "trash".

Bag Rugs

The most common method of creating bag rugs is through crochet. If you are new to crochet and would like to learn, visit www.learntocrochet.com or visit your local craft or hobby store and pick up a copy of "I Can't Believe I'm Crocheting" by Leisure Arts. Some bag rugs and other plastic bag projects such as placemats can be woven instead of crocheted.

Hints:

• Bag rugs require a large supply of clean dry bags. Keep a collection bin in your home and ask your friends and neighbors to do the same.
• Any type of plastic bag may be used. The bags that come from grocery or department stores are recommended.
• Lawn/leaf and trash bags tend to be "slippery". Use cornstarch or talc on your hands and hook to prevent sticking.
• Use the same thickness of bags throughout the project to prevent curling of your completed project.

Getting Started

1. Cutting Plastic Strips
   • Create one continuous strip of plastic from each bag. Place the plastic "tube" flat on an ironing board with the open ends at the top and bottom. Begin at the top end, and mark both sides in 1 1/2-inch increments (or as indicated in a pattern). Using sharp scissors, start cutting diagonally fro the bottom of the "tube" toward the first mark on the opposite side. Continue cutting tube into a long strip, using marks as guides.
2. Joining Plastic Strips
   • Cut a 1/2-inch slit, about 3/4-inch from the end of the strip you are working with and the new strip.
   • Pull free end of new strip through both slits from the bottom to the top.
   • Pull new strip lightly to form a small knot, and continue working.

Bag Rug

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