Quite some time ago, Care gave me this clear vinyl bag which was the packaging for a 'Hide-a-Mat', measuring a generous 36" by 24" by 12" and including a nice 58" black nylon zipper. The seams are stitched and bound with the same clear plastic, and on the back is a panel of black knit mesh.
The challenge: to re-use and re-cycle the materials!
The bag has since been lying idle in my Things-I-Might-Recycle bin, with the challenge lying idly in the back of my brain until just recently. I think ideas must have been jogged by Care's fun crayon pouch posting, because several have popped out of the back of the brain!
Notes for recycling vinyl packaging:
--the vinyl is fairly light weight, and so not exceptionally durable, but much easier to handle than the heavier stuff.
--the vinyl is a bit crinkly from storage, so
-- a very short spin in the dryer or a quick blast with the hair dryer helps.
--to stitch clear plastic, use longer stitches and handle the seam from the front and the back of the presser foot, helping it move along.
--definitely do cut with the rotary cutter, using an older blade.
--I have a couple of ideas for re-using the zipper, so I'll probably add in some zippers from my notions stash.
I think I'm set to sew!
Can't wait to see what you come up with. Another hint for sewing with vinyl, if I may...I always use a walking foot. The vinyl doesn't get bunched up, making it much easier to work with.
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to see what you came up with!!
ReplyDeleteI like the link you gave, very useful. I also keep al the vinyl bags I come across because I know I can make something out of them (but haven't found what yet!!!;-D) I'm sure you'll come up with something really good
ReplyDeleteThanks, Very Verdant, for the walking foot hint! Good advice.
ReplyDeleteI also remember back in the old days trying a roller foot, which was meant to roll over a sticky fabric like vinyl. I'm afraid it was a good idea whose time never came!