I made these eco shopping bags for Christmas presents, out of vintage pillow slips. We wanted to minimise the use of wrapping paper so making reusable bags was our solution. I think we should get bonus eco points for upcycling vintage pillowcases. I used the Clover bias binding maker for the first time, and it is fantastic. I highly recommend it!
How to make
Step 1
Fold the pillowcase in half lengthways. Draw a handle in the middle, which is at least 25cm long and 7cm wide. Ensure that the pillowslip opening is on top.
Step 2
Cut out the curves on either side of the handle. You should end up with four handles symmetrical to each other.
Step 3
Finish off the edges of the handles with either bias binding or an overlocker. I made both versions.
For the bias binding version, I made bias binding from the off-cuts of the pillow slip (thank you Clover bias binding maker) and then pressed a 2cm bias binding tape in half and attached it to the bag with basting stitches. It was then stitched on to the raw edges of the bag with a sewing machine.
For the overlocker version, simply run a rolled hem stitch all the way around the raw edges.
Step 4
To complete the handle, you need to attach the top of the handles together. Firstly turn the entire bag inside out. With the right sides facing, stitch the handles together, 3cm in from the top of the handle. Fold the end down on the handle and stitch in place. Stitch over both lines twice to ensure strength. Repeat on the other handle.
This is so easy and such a wonderful way to use up lovely old pillowcases. It was a real hit with the family, they ended up stuffing their other gifts into the bag to take home. It was nice to see the bags in use immediately!
17 Responses to “How to make eco shopping bag from an old pillowcase”
Michelle
Great tutorial! I love the colours on the flower one.
Rin
Thanks Michelle. There’s some beautiful vintage pillowslips out there, just waiting to be revamped into shopping bags!
Sewing Princess
what a nice idea! I have so many….thanks for sharing I am pinning it on Pinterest
Sharon @ Elizabeth & Co.
Thank you for sharing! This idea is super cute, functional and thrifty too! If you care to join a party, we have a Be Inspired link party every Tuesday!
Lauren
Love the prints! Nice REuse of a pillowcase. Well done!
Timi
Thanks for this great idea!!!
Cassandra
What a fantastic idea! I’m going to make one tomorrow to use as a nappy bag!
Last week I blogged about the romper I made for my daughter out of a vintage pillow case … I’d love if you could stop by.
Thanks for sharing
Cassandra
I love this idea! I’m going to make one of these tomorrow to use as a diaper bag
Thanks for sharing!!
Last week I blogged about a romper that I made for my daughter out of a vintage pillowcase. I’d love for you to stop by and check it out
Julie
wow super idea and so great/easy? to make…I think I’ll understand the directions when getting ready to sew:) sometimes I run into duh moments…thanks
Rin
Haha that’s so true, it’s pretty difficult to fully understand how to make things until you actually start doing it. I promise this project is super easy – if I can do it, anyone can!
Rin
I just went to visit your page. You did such an amazing job, it’s amazing what you can make out of a pillowcase!
Krupa shah
Hi rin your blog is great, love the shopping bag idea.
Rin
Thanks Krupa – glad you came to visit
Elaine Shortall
Was just discussing what to do with old pillowcases that we all seem to have so many of. This is a perfect solution. Thank you for the great idea. Can’t wait to get started.
Challenge: Be Green in 2013: 3 Simple Green Ideas To Help Yourself And The Planet! | 1 More Than 2 | Creative Ideas for Daily Living
[...] How to make an eco shopping bag from an old pillowcase [...]
Graine de blé noir
Super ! Excellente idée. Merci.
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