Reversible Art Apron

Reversible Art Apron
Originally uploaded by calamity kim

Calamity Kim is always an inspiration.
This is an apron, but the idea would work beautifully on a bag as well.

The front is a photo of boots, applicable for the recipient.
Collage with fabric cut-outs, buttons, charms...
the possibilities are endless.

Fun recycling idea

One of the things I find most inspiring, is when unusual materials are used in sewing or in art.
This is especially true when materials are trash-to-treasure.


This bag, by Kitty-San, incorporates fabric selvages (or selvedges--both spellings are correct).
Selvages, including those color strips most fabrics include, or the pieces with the company and design name.
So fun!
Her blog is Amores de Toquio (the posts are written in Portuguese).

Earthwise shopping bags

While we're all finishing up our photo bags (you ARE working on your challenge bag...right?), I thought I'd mention Earthwise bags.
There are several good manufacturers of cloth shopping totes, this being one.

Earthwise bags are made from non-woven polypropylene, and honestly I don't know if that's a good or bad thing.
I mean, it's a petrochemical product, no?
But the site says it's "a fabric that is lightweight yet durable – not to mention reusable, resistant to corrosion, hypoallergenic, non-toxic, washable, and water-repellent."
There are so many sides to the story--is it more environmentally sensitive to manufacture this fabric or to produce a canvas? Or paper sacks? Or some other material???

It certainly is an improvement over plastic bags.
I do think the notion of reusing an item versus using a plastic bag once is a no brainer.
I'm just not sure what the 'best' content of the tote should be.

Anyway, the fun thing about Earthwise is you can request personalized options.
"They (the totes) can also be fully customized by businesses, with a variety of colors to choose from and the option to display personal initials, a graphic, or even a company logo."

But even the standard choices are great.
Like eight Simpsons-themed bags (two of each design) for $19.99
The dimensions are 13.25"H x 12.25"W x 8.25" deep


Or I like these retro surfer bags, four 16.75"H x 14"W x 7.75" deep, for $11.99