You know that feeling when you reach for a snack, and you're greeted by a crinkly plastic bag that just screams waste? Ugh, I can’t stand it! Lately, I’ve been dreaming about making my own DIY reusable snack bags. Isn’t it funny how something as simple as a snack bag can make you feel better about your choices? I can just picture myself whipping up these cute little pouches while listening to my favorite tunes, maybe even letting my kids decorate them with fabric markers. Who wouldn’t want to trade in those flimsy bags for something eco-friendly and fun? Plus, can you imagine the thrill of packing a sandwich or some trail mix in a bag that I made myself? It feels like a tiny revolution in my kitchen!
Items You’ll Need
- Fabric (Cotton or PUL)
- Sewing machine
- Thread (polyester or cotton)
- Scissors (fabric scissors recommended)
- Pins or clips (for holding fabric together while sewing)
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Snaps, Velcro or Zippers (for closing the bags)
- Iron (for pressing fabric)
- Cutting mat (optional for cutting fabric accurately)
- Rotary cutter (optional for cutting fabric)
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
First things first, I need to gather all my materials! I've got my fabric (I’m using PUL for the waterproof quality), sewing machine, thread, fabric scissors, and my trusty measuring tape. I also grabbed snaps and Velcro for closing the bags.
Step 2: Cut the Fabric
With my fabric scissors, I measure and cut my fabric into the desired size for the snack bags. I think I'm going to make them 8 inches wide and 6 inches tall. Two pieces for each bag—one for the outer layer and one for the lining. Time to cut!
Step 3: Pin or Clip the Fabric
Now that my pieces are cut, I lay them out and pin them together. It’s satisfying to see the fabric layers, and using clips instead of pins is super convenient. I’ve got the right sides together so that when I sew, the seams will be hidden inside.
Step 4: Sew the Sides
I set my sewing machine to a straight stitch and start sewing along the edges. I leave one side open since I’ll need to turn them inside out later. I can already imagine how cute these bags will look!
Step 5: Turn the Bag Inside Out
Once I’ve sewn the sides, it’s time to turn the bag inside out. This is the magic moment! I poke out the corners carefully so they look nice and sharp. Now it resembles a real bag!
Step 6: Add the Closure
Since I want it to be reusable and easy to open, I decide to add Velcro to the open side. I measure and cut the Velcro strips before sewing them on. I have to make sure they're aligned perfectly to ensure the bag closes well.
Step 7: Iron the Bag
Now, I give the bag a quick press with the iron. It looks so crisp and clean! This helps set those seams too. Plus, it’s always nice to work with pressed fabric—it makes it easier to sew!
Step 8: Finishing Touches
For the final touch, I check for any stray threads and trim them away. Everything looks great! Each bag is uniquely mine, and I can’t wait to fill them with snacks on my next adventure.
Step 9: Show Off Your Bags!
Finally, I take a moment to survey my handiwork. I whip out my phone and snap a few pictures to show off my adorable, eco-friendly snack bags. I feel proud knowing I made these myself!