Repurposing store reusable bags.

**lilyrose** · 08-20-2009, 03:54 PM

I have several store-brand reusable bags. While I love the idea and have gotten much use out of them, they don't seem to hold up like a canvas bag would. I now have several that have rips and tears right in the fabric.

I'd really like ideas on how to recycle/repurpose those store brand reusable bags that are not usable anymore. I hate to just through them out.

**Ceashels** · 08-20-2009, 04:11 PM

Are they patchable? with some denim and a zigzag stitch?

**frugalfranny** · 08-20-2009, 08:02 PM

Or if you aren't picky about how it looks......and it is a 'tear'......can you zig zag it?
Any way.....according to where they are torn......to make them just a smaller bag?

**mommy4ever** · 08-20-2009, 09:47 PM

Our stores guarantee their bags. Will replace for free if they rip. Have you checked if your store does?

**peanut** · 08-23-2009, 02:56 PM

Hmmm...I wonder if they can be cut/ripped in strips and crocheted or knit into bags/rugs/etc. just like the plastic bags...

**Debbie-cat** · 08-23-2009, 03:13 PM

I would check and see if the store will do an exchange on them. They might and it doesn't hurt to ask.

**lilyrose** · 08-24-2009, 11:15 AM

Originally Posted by Debbie-cat

I would check and see if the store will do an exchange on them. They might and it doesn't hurt to ask.

I guess I could ask next time I go. Wouldn't hurt, but I'm not counting on anything.

Originally Posted by peanut

Hmmm...I wonder if they can be cut/ripped in strips and crocheted or knit into bags/rugs/etc. just like the plastic bags...

I really don't know if the material would hold up to crocheting or patching. I suppose I could try it.

Thanks everyone!

**perSue** · 08-24-2009, 11:44 AM

Hmm... well it depends on whether or not you want the store label/logo seen. You could always turn them inside out & turn them into lunch bags - add some velcro to fold over & close.
Perhaps turn them into smaller gift bags - of different colors if you have several.
What about dish covers? Something pretty & will help keep it (sort of?) warm while in transport, or just as a pretty cover to keep dust away.
I'll keep thinking...

**peanut** · 08-24-2009, 12:04 PM

Are you talking the clothlike reusable bags? Or the heavy duty plastic? If it's the cloth ones I'll bet they overdye with standard RIT or Dylon dyes real well. You could really make something totally new out of them...

**lilyrose** · 08-24-2009, 12:59 PM

Originally Posted by peanut

Are you talking the clothlike reusable bags? Or the heavy duty plastic? If it's the cloth ones I'll bet they overdye with standard RIT or Dylon dyes real well. You could really make something totally new out of them...

They are the cloth ones. This material appears to be cheaply made - and I'm not talking the frugal type cheap.