Fusing Plastic Bags

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Using Fused Plastic Bags for Craft Projects

Listing and discovering different projects for fused plastic bags.

Make bags out of plastic bags. 

During a search for a free pattern for a tote bag; I stumbled across a demo on Etsy Lab (see link below) about how to fuse plastic bags. It seemed really easy, so I decided to give it a try.

The process was trial and error. I had to find the correct temperature for my iron but once I did; it was smooth sailing.

Fused plastic can be sewn either by hand or a sewing machine. If you are not handy with a sewing machine or do not have one, you can use an object to wrap the plastic around and fuse the edges together or use a hot glue gun. ***Make sure to cover the object with printing paper or parchment paper!!

I used the "fused edge" technique for the bag shown.
Although the bag is not completed (still needs to have top edge fused and handles), I am rather pleased with it.

If you want to fuse the inside of the bag, use a mini or travel iron. REMEMBER to line the area with paper or parchment. The fused bag can be decorated with an array of plastic designs (best if they are recycled). Scrapbookers should have some really cool items to use. You could also cut out different shapes from plastic bags to create some really interesting designs.

Just a word of ***CAUTION**, breathing in the fumes may be toxic. Make sure to work in a well ventilated area and wear a mask.

If you make a bag I would like to here from you. Please leave a blurb. Do the same if you make something other than a bag. I will be posting different ideas and techniques that I come across or discover.

Fused Plastic and Fabric 

I tried another bag. This time I used fused plastic bags with fabric. The fabric was scraps that I had from another project. I sewed the two together. As you can see in the photo, I lined the fabric with the fused plastic for durability. I did not paint or cover the inside of the bag as a reminder for recycling. I haven't seamed the top edge. I am looking for a cute handle.

I added three new links. They have tutorials and pictures of cute bags. Crafty Daisies made beads!

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Comment or Tips 

Hi!

I would like to hear some ideas of yours if you have any. I enjoy reading lenses created by others. Please leave a comment so I can "stop by."

New Guestbook 

Lensmaster

TheCandleGal wrote...

This is GREAT! I'm going to give it a go and try to make a super cute, super eco-friendly, recycled plastic DIAPER BAG! Stay tuned! I probably won't get it done for a couple of weeks cuz I have a lot going on right now.

ReplyPosted August 17, 2008

Lensmaster

EverythingMouse wrote...

Interesting idea. My daughter spends all day crafting so I will show this one to her too.

ReplyPosted July 15, 2008

Tips 

*The plastic bag can be painted with acrylic paint for plastic.

*Use clear plastic bags to protect your design.

*Place sequins between two layers.

*Glitter can be used.

*Crayon shavings make an interesting design.

*Embroidery

Tutorial Link 

I haven't had time to experiment but I did find a pdf file that has tutorials for plastic bags, plastic bottles and straws.www.elupton.com

New Link List 

Elupton-pdf
Tutorials for using plastic bags, plastic bottles and straws in craft projects.
My Recycled Bags.com
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Decorating Tips 

Here is another site that gives decorating tips for your fused plastic bags:

www.cutoutandkeep.net/projects/recycle_your_tesco_bags

Make a wallet 

Here is a link that gives directions for making a wallet out of the fused plastic bag. Also, a link that gives instruction on how to crochet plastic bags.

www.ehow.com/how_2121402_make-wallet-from-plastic-grocery.html

www.marloscrochetcorner.com/Plastic%20Bag%20tote.html

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How not to fuse a plastic bag. 

In searching the internet, I am finding the same "how to fuse plastic bag" links being shared. However I did come across this one. It gives another "twist" to fusing plastic bags and it is quite funny.

http://www.macewan.org/2007/11/26/how-not-to-fuse-plastic-bags/