Beginners' Guide to Plastic Bag Recycling - How to Make a Wallet

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  • Опубліковано 28 тра 2024
  • 💚 A huge thank you to The Brotherhood: / brothersmake
    ♻️ Check out our recycled plastic store: www.brothersmake.com/shop
    Up until now, we've mostly worked with waste plastic bottle tops for our creations. We wanted to find a way to use other forms of plastic pollution, such as the dreaded plastic carrier bag. These things are a nightmare for the planet - they never break down and animals mistake them for food. We've all seen the images of the hungry turtle mistaking a plastic bag for a jellyfish.
    In this video, we show you how you can take plastic bags and turn them into a tough flexible fabric-like sheet. The beauty of this is that you don't need any specialist tools in order to do this. Check out the technique and give it a go for yourself. We'd love to hear what you have made, or what you'd like to see us make using this technique.
    We found a few excellent reference videos that helped us start out with this process. Check them out for yourself here:
    iJessup: bit.ly/3Lz472s
    Precious Plastic: bit.ly/2KLWwx0
    Plastic Shed: bit.ly/3DK946M
    Wallet Template: bit.ly/3fb0jbo
    #BrothersMake #PlasticBag #PlasticPollution #PreciousPlastic #RecycledPlastic #plasticrecycling
    Supporting our sponsors helps keep us in the workshop and saving more plastic from becoming pollution 🤙🏽 Head to squarespace.com/brothersmake to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code BROTHERSMAKE.
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    FAQ:
    ➡️ We sell 100% plastic products on our website! www.brothersmake.com/shop
    ➡️ We don't buy any of our plastic. It all comes from collection and donations. We have a video all about it: bit.ly/2RsbhKA
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    Music by Epidemic Sound
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 1,1 тис.

  • @BrothersMake
    @BrothersMake  Рік тому +157

    Drop your plastic bag project ideas as a reply to this comment. We’ll add all the best ones to our video ideas list! 🤙🏽

    • @nancyvanbeest7989
      @nancyvanbeest7989 Рік тому +26

      I need to make some shopping bags with this idea .

    • @BrothersMake
      @BrothersMake  Рік тому +28

      Bag for life made out of recycled bags! Love it

    • @inventtory1272
      @inventtory1272 Рік тому +24

      Could you add some of my videos? My press turns grocery bags into hard plastic plates as durable as the panini press method and it's monumentally easier.

    • @leandrogaldeano7731
      @leandrogaldeano7731 Рік тому +37

      Notebook pads covers
      Thin coasters and table protectors
      Envelopes for important papers
      Photo frames with magnets

    • @Se9n.
      @Se9n. Рік тому +11

      Shoes

  • @laurelchan2640
    @laurelchan2640 Рік тому +1115

    I did this for a high school project and have been making a lot of things out of the plastic "fabric" ever since. Made a lot of pencil cases or toiletries bags (especially the boxy kind) with a zipper. Favourite thing to make was a bucket hat! Kind of funny and also waterproof!

    • @BrothersMake
      @BrothersMake  Рік тому +49

      Awesome stuff! Sounds great

    • @lifeisfunny6486
      @lifeisfunny6486 Рік тому +35

      That sounds amazing 👏🏾do you have a blog or Instagram so we can see? this is such a good idea

    • @traceyseymour7700
      @traceyseymour7700 Рік тому +12

      Hi laurel , did you use a sewing machine to make your items, really love this idea..have a good day

    • @JMBBrasil
      @JMBBrasil Рік тому +7

      Uau. Would love to see it!

    • @dau1arys301
      @dau1arys301 Рік тому +1

      @@JMBBrasil I too

  • @cornelsyrzysko5897
    @cornelsyrzysko5897 Рік тому +382

    This is awesome! My mom makes plastic bathroom mats (or big plastic carpets) by tearing the bags into strips, tying it all together in a long rope and hand crocheting them. They turn out very beautiful and suprisingly soft to walk on

    • @AlisonsArt
      @AlisonsArt Рік тому +27

      My mom crocheted some mats from plastic bags as well.

    • @PrincessV444
      @PrincessV444 Рік тому +45

      We do this for homeless people. It keeps them warm and its soft to lay on…if we can get it away from the cats...they love the plastic balls and mats!

    • @AlisonsArt
      @AlisonsArt Рік тому +11

      My mom crocheted a plastic newspaper rain bags into a number of mats inside & outside.

    • @Jade-uh7ep
      @Jade-uh7ep Рік тому +9

      Ohoh I want to see that!!

    • @rhodawatkins4516
      @rhodawatkins4516 Рік тому +8

      @@PrincessV444 I've seen a video on that! Seems like a great idea to help the planet and the homeless at the same time. Way to go! Would be good for camping mats,too, I bet.

  • @timne0
    @timne0 Рік тому +222

    To improve the stitching use blunt leather working needles. Start the stitch 3-4 stitch holes lower than the top, stitch up, then stitch down this will improve the strength. Using a proper saddle stitching technique will also improve the consistency of your stitch.

    • @johnnyc.5979
      @johnnyc.5979 9 місяців тому +4

      I was gonna say the same thing. Yes, they should watch some leathercrafting saddle stitching videos. Never seen anyone sew the line like they did, but it worked although with a wonky stitch line.

  • @elliemayormaynot
    @elliemayormaynot Рік тому +145

    Great video. BTW - rubbing alcohol will remove the print from the bags. Just use scrap cloth or cotton balls and rub away.

  • @leandrogaldeano7731
    @leandrogaldeano7731 Рік тому +260

    From the moment you showed the finished sheet of plastic I immediately thought of notebook pads covers
    This looks awesome guys!
    I cant wait to try this out

    • @BrothersMake
      @BrothersMake  Рік тому +29

      Book covers is actually on our list! Thanks man!

    • @eugenetswong
      @eugenetswong Рік тому +7

      What about a clipboard?

    • @gomathisuppiah2449
      @gomathisuppiah2449 Рік тому +6

      I had the same thought. Great minds ehh? haha

    • @jokingpirate
      @jokingpirate Рік тому +3

      I had the same thought!
      I make sketchbooks from old paper , then sew them together but have been wondering how would I come up with a nice cover , this video is cool!

    • @GabrielMartins-fm9tx
      @GabrielMartins-fm9tx Місяць тому

      I also thought the same

  • @regannoble8947
    @regannoble8947 Рік тому +15

    There are some awesome guys in India that use this method to make “trash shoes”. All of the materials are made from recycled materials. The uppers are made from the method you showed here. Brilliant ideas!

    • @hameley12
      @hameley12 Рік тому

      I think I might have found them. Can't remember the store name. I found another online shop called Ocean Sole Africa (I think) most of their items are made from old flip flops and other plastic-y sandals into art. My art teacher bought two for his office, they are adult human-sized and so colorful and beautiful! I'd love to buy a medium sized piece for my Apt.
      Note: He paid extra for the delivery. Mostly 'cause the packaging made it heavy, and the art has some weight too, but not too much. 🎨

  • @greenmtnmellie
    @greenmtnmellie Рік тому +9

    I turn mine into "plarn" & crochet mats for the local animal shelter. Cats seem to love them. It also works to make bags for picking veg in the garden.

  • @debbrady497
    @debbrady497 Рік тому +48

    As a seamstress with over 50 years of experience, I appreciate how you used tools on your twin needles. It saved your finger tips! Great video. I will enjoy trying this technique! Thanks guys!

    • @MB-xw1tu
      @MB-xw1tu Рік тому +4

      Yes ma'am. Not a seamstress but sewer and crafter. Curved needles help provide pushing power to get through thicker/tougher layers of material, but sometimes a pair of pliers or clamps (I like because they don't nick the needles) are necessary. Because of autoimmune arthritis, I'm going to need new methods... planning on getting one of those sailmaker's tools I don't remember the name of, that provides a stiff surface on the palm below the thumb to push needles through thick materials.... because sometimes you need help pushing the needle far enough through to grab onto with pliers!

    • @silverwater211
      @silverwater211 11 місяців тому +1

      If I use a sewing machine to do this, is a leather needle is OK?

    • @debbrady497
      @debbrady497 11 місяців тому +1

      @@MB-xw1tu I have fibromyalgia. I live in pain every day as you probably do also. Best wishes to you.

    • @debbrady497
      @debbrady497 11 місяців тому +1

      @@silverwater211 I would not use a machine on this, as it may well cause the material to crack, unless you pre-punch the holes, and then you will have to match stitch length to your holes. If you indeed do use a sewing machine, then yes, a leather needle would be preferred. Have fun!

    • @silverwater211
      @silverwater211 11 місяців тому +2

      @@debbrady497 Thanks! As the seam is short, I could slowly operate the flywheel of the machine by hand using a leather needle.

  • @82gamerprincess31
    @82gamerprincess31 Рік тому +226

    2 tips. One is you can remove the text from bags. Many videos on how to do that. Second is if you want to do this as a hobby get a heat press like the one used to do t-shirt transfers. Makes super clean and flat sheets very quickly.
    If you go thick enough this stuff is bonkers strong like homemade tyvex (house wrap). I’ve seen everything from rain coats to book bags made from it.

    • @mermaidleesi
      @mermaidleesi Рік тому +4

      Do you mean the heat presses that can be used for iron-on and vinyl transfers? Like the ones made by Cricut? What experience do you have with those?

    • @royalfourever
      @royalfourever Рік тому +1

      Was actually kinda shocked they didn’t use one since they even used a panini press before, felt the iron was makin em work a little hard there. 🤣

    • @michelleveronica6097
      @michelleveronica6097 Рік тому +37

      @@royalfourever i guess the iron is supposed to encourage people to do the project. I don't have a heat press and I'd be discouraged if I thought I don't have the resources to make them.

    • @marionsalwegter4738
      @marionsalwegter4738 Рік тому

      @@mermaidleesi o

    • @ward26102
      @ward26102 Рік тому +7

      @@michelleveronica6097 Agreed. Only if this is going to be a long-term project and a person would make lots of items, a heat press isn't worth the money. If one wants to make lots of items, then getting a used heat press would make the process faster.

  • @crawkn
    @crawkn Рік тому +40

    Everyone has way more bags than they would ever use for crafts, so I would recommend just using full sheets of printed portions of bags for the "filler," it will give a more even thickness and save a lot of time.

    • @beckypetersen2680
      @beckypetersen2680 Рік тому +2

      I why chop it up to put it in between the layers as well.

    • @justinereynolds4261
      @justinereynolds4261 Рік тому

      Yeah I asked myself the same thing " Why are putting down little bits ? Why not throw a sheet down ?' But on reflection I feel these little bits going in all different directions would make the end result stronger .

    • @susanray8359
      @susanray8359 Рік тому +1

      This(my comment) is speculation. I would think if a section over heated and melted through one of the sheets and several single sheets are layered on top of each other it is more likely to sink and spread. Edges melt faster, using pieces and sheets in layers should result in a stronger end product while making production almost fool proof. If you try layering single sheets to start the base, I am interested how it works out!

  • @PumpkinPails
    @PumpkinPails 2 місяці тому +1

    This looks fun! I like to make my own sketchbooks with random bits of trash like receipts, junk mail, packaging paper, etc.. Now, I want to experiment with making the covers out of plastic bags and continue the trash theme. ♻️

  • @oojagapivy
    @oojagapivy Рік тому +142

    We did this with our students a few years back (7- I had to think about that). They made things like phone holders, pencil cases etc. I even used the process with my timber class to create large ‘vinyl’ like sheets. We then used them as upholstery for our footstools. It was really hard wearing, which surprised the students.

    • @pistachoo.
      @pistachoo. Рік тому +6

      how old were your students? I've always wanted to do this with mine, but I worry about parents getting upset re breathing in fumes or other concerns...

    • @oojagapivy
      @oojagapivy Рік тому +8

      @@pistachoo. yrs 7-10. Not much chance of fumes if managed well around the iron. Keep it moving. If concerned, setup the iron at the doorway or near a window.

    • @pistachoo.
      @pistachoo. Рік тому +3

      @@oojagapivy is that 7-10 year old children, or school grades?

    • @oojagapivy
      @oojagapivy Рік тому +11

      @@pistachoo. school grades. So 11-16 yrs old

    • @bhornannawindeedeigh5007
      @bhornannawindeedeigh5007 Рік тому +8

      @@oojagapivy☺️ God Bless you for being a teacher. I retired in the early aughts from teaching HS Spanish for 25 years. I would have loved to have taught art instead 🙂. It sounds like you had your students involved in completing some really cool projects. 👍🏾

  • @seameology
    @seameology Рік тому +8

    Perfect for my Christmas DIY. I'm giving my numerous siblings recipes from our mother and grandmothers. A great book cover with minimal work. Make sheets, punch three holes with a hole punch and I will have a book. With creative working like the rose, I can put writing on the top layer. I just saw a DIY where you can put paper between clear layers. So I could also print my own covers.
    I have PLENTY of plastic bags. More than enough to make gifts for seven siblings plus nieces.

    • @diannedelledera3096
      @diannedelledera3096 Рік тому +1

      Makes great journals and sketch pads and you often can find recycled paper from businesses and schools and use the recycled paper between the covers.

    • @bschultz7390
      @bschultz7390 3 місяці тому

      Ooh good idea!

  • @carolinewhaley6804
    @carolinewhaley6804 Рік тому +57

    I make plarn tote bags out of plastic grocery bags and always have the handles and bottom seam left over. Definitely going to try this with those bits!

    • @BrothersMake
      @BrothersMake  Рік тому +2

      That’s a great way to use them up!

    • @KCCAT5
      @KCCAT5 Рік тому +17

      I used to do this I used to make plarn and I made the Sleep mats for the homeless what I did was take the extras( the handles and the seams, and ripped unusablebags) and put them aside and then after I was done making the bed roll and the strap I would make a pillow starting with the tote bag pattern just make it smaller and I would stuff the ends and leftover bits and pieces inside and then sew up the opening

    • @flurng
      @flurng Рік тому +4

      what is plam?

    • @FaeryRene
      @FaeryRene Рік тому +7

      @@flurng plarn = plastic 'yarn' made from strips of recycled plastic

  • @serenitydavis1828
    @serenitydavis1828 Рік тому +7

    Thank you for sharing this. I'm a bookbinder who's been looking for an affordable, more water-resistant cover material for a bit. This should work wonderfully.

  • @RobC901
    @RobC901 Рік тому +2

    Be really sweet to make a sheath for an axe or maybe a carrier for your inkpen, endless possibilities when it comes to recycling!!!!!!

  • @allensketchclub8579
    @allensketchclub8579 Рік тому +19

    this is definitely a neat idea, and quite simple.
    make it larger, add a braided handle, imbed some magnets for closures and you have a pouch.
    drawstring top? adjustable straps? (hdpe clasps and hardware, no doubt....) perhaps even a zipper!!
    large round shaped bags, beach bags, even a shopping bag with pouches to hold the gel cold packs to keep the items cold.
    unfortunately several places have banned single use bags such as these, so they are not quite as plentiful as s they once were, but this is still such a great idea!
    carry on!!

    • @BrothersMake
      @BrothersMake  Рік тому +2

      Such a huge amount of amazing ideas! Thanks Allen 🤙🏽

    • @hameley12
      @hameley12 Рік тому

      Allen, some shops, not many online, but def some stores or departments that ship off merchandise through online orders, the plastic is quite thick, HDPE safe, and easy to manage. These large plastic wraps are great for reusing and crafting. 😄

  • @jlarts
    @jlarts Рік тому +81

    Can I suggest you look into leather working sewing techniques? Maybe even use leather needles for your saddle stitches as I'm sure they'd be easier to work with than using pliers. I'm really curious what the texture is like now as there's potential for replacing a lot of things traditionally made with leather with this material.

    • @BrothersMake
      @BrothersMake  Рік тому +22

      Yes we decided we definitely need to look into that! This was our first project that included sewing so it was good to try it out.

    • @HogwartsBasement
      @HogwartsBasement Рік тому +7

      I think a normal sewing machine would fire through it no problem

    • @jlarts
      @jlarts Рік тому +10

      @@HogwartsBasement It probably would but you would need to adjust the tension accordingly as it might pull the thread too tight. Doing it by hand allows for a little more control.

    • @susangopher
      @susangopher Рік тому +14

      The domestic Singer 15s were known as the Farmers sewing machine because it sewed agricultural sacks and leather. That would work!

    • @Timri3681
      @Timri3681 Рік тому +7

      Your "blocks in the vise" idea immediately struck me as a makeshift stitching pony, and the type of sewing is exactly a saddle stitch. Much like OP, I'm thinking of how I might incorporate this into leather working!

  • @irinadalah9089
    @irinadalah9089 4 місяці тому +1

    truth be told, the moment you showed the finished flower thingy, I immediately thought of cutting boards. if you make the initial sheet twice as thick, and then glue 7-8-10 layers together, wouldn't it make a thick enough cutting board? not for food, but for crafts.
    I'll have to try it.
    and then I thought that if the gluing won't work, then just making the initial sheet twice as thick, would make wonderful pads for pricking and poking work (yeah, yeah, I know, there's so many dirty jokes in that one 😈).
    and then the ideas really started flowing: aprons, floor mats for the cat's dishes (mine drinks like a dog, and spills all over the place), "upholstery" for the gardening kneeling stool-thingy, sectioned up totes for gardening tools and materials, protective mats for crafting, protective mats for small mattresses (or grown-up ones, if you have the patience), protective mats for just about any place inside a car, up-to and including the truck bay...
    I wonder if they make good anti-slipping mats, if you poke a few suckers through...
    and I think, the piece-de-resistance: and number of base-mats for huge outdoor board games. it will need skill to plan the outer layer, but I think it would be awesome!! I'll try a pachisi square one for this summer. and I'll have the kids play as game-pawns, while the parents would throw the dice...

  • @sharonruff3837
    @sharonruff3837 Рік тому +2

    I can see lampshades, wall hangings, trunk, drawer, & bin liners, window shades, handbags, shopping bags, it could even replace wallpaper! Endless applications! Good on you two!!!

  • @savvivixen8490
    @savvivixen8490 Рік тому +20

    I would love to see leatherworkers use this material as practice or proof of concept purposes! It saves on leather, reduces waste, and breathes life into plastic that would be harmful otherwise! It probably wouldn't fix every problem, but I like this idea!

  • @maryhornbostel6959
    @maryhornbostel6959 Рік тому +25

    To speed cutting of plastic bags layer and use a rotary cutter and ruler for fabric. To cut many finished pattern pieces, try a cricket cutter machine. Thanks for the info, my pentacle folder is wearing out so maybe I'll make one soon.

    • @BrothersMake
      @BrothersMake  Рік тому +2

      A rotary cutter is a good idea. We may look at a cricut too :)

  • @marillaarguelles7362
    @marillaarguelles7362 Рік тому +1

    These recycled plastic wallets seem like a terrific project for brownie or cub scout troups, Boys and Girls Clubs, etc.

  • @barbarahallowell2613
    @barbarahallowell2613 9 місяців тому +8

    Absolutely genius! Not just a great way to reuse, but it looks like fun!
    I'm envisioning making large pieces like this to cut out with a pattern to sew a jacket or skirt. Honest, had no idea! I've crocheted strips of thin grocery bags to make camp mats, but, wow! ❤ Thx for the inspiration 😊
    Best part, I've all ready got everything needed to give it a go! 😊

  • @lisafriloux1713
    @lisafriloux1713 Рік тому +10

    been making plastic fabric for years! I now use it to make purses(makes sturdy interfacing) and junk journal covers & ephemera, great video!

    • @BrothersMake
      @BrothersMake  Рік тому +3

      Thats awesome, Lisa. Book covers are on our list to try out!

  • @nilsschenkel7149
    @nilsschenkel7149 Рік тому +40

    It´s probably not important for something like a wallet, but usually you go hole for hole if you stitch with two needles. You leave the first thread in a loop you can hold on to when you pass it through, and pull on it when you pass through the second needle. This helps with getting it through in stiffer materials, but more importantly it prevents you from stitching through the thread. Doing it that way is important if you want to properly tighten the stitch, as you then can pull on both threads and they move independetly. If the material you sew togehter is thick enough for it, you´ll be able to "sink" the stitching into its surface, making a more durable stitching since it will be less exposed to abrasion or snagging.

    • @lanapeterzon9055
      @lanapeterzon9055 Рік тому +1

      Yup! :)

    • @drkatel
      @drkatel Рік тому +2

      I think I can picture what you’re saying but I need to find a video of this process. Thank you! I have a lot to learn.

    • @philipbohi983
      @philipbohi983 Рік тому +2

      @@drkatel check out some leather-working channels like Claridge Leather for good stitching techniques, like the Saddle Stitch (I had to repair an Ugg boot my Plott Hound decided to play with and found that channel). His instruction is awesome.

  • @BeCreativewithTerryJeanette
    @BeCreativewithTerryJeanette 20 днів тому

    I love to recycle things like this. I've taken plastic bags and made "plain"...plastic yarn...and crochet bags. I've made a beach bag and I also made a smaller one into a bag to put my beach finds in when I go beach combing. Thanks for sharing. I will be trying this for sure.

  • @Timri3681
    @Timri3681 Рік тому +43

    I've been inspired by you guys to incorporate "plastic craft" in my workshop (along with woodworking and a backyard aluminum foundry). I've used plastic Kroger (tm) grocery bags in a dedicated toaster oven to make really strong ¼" thick billits, then use a scroll saw to carve out Keychain and medallions. They're HDPE, so enough stacked together and fused make a strong, solid block to work with!

    • @BrothersMake
      @BrothersMake  Рік тому +3

      That sounds very cool!

    • @ccorbin83
      @ccorbin83 Рік тому +2

      Tim, do you have a Facebook page where you show your projects? I’d love to see some of your ideas.

    • @Timri3681
      @Timri3681 Рік тому +11

      @@ccorbin83 Sorry, I keep meaning to make some sort of online presence, but haven't done anything yet. I mostly text pics to friends and get feedback, but nothing public yet. 🙃 My wife says I should make an etsy shop or something 😅

    • @lisac7386
      @lisac7386 Рік тому +4

      Does the material float? You could make boat keychains.

    • @denalihedgehog
      @denalihedgehog 9 місяців тому

      I wonder if I could do that with an Ikea bag 😮

  • @stigyanblue1442
    @stigyanblue1442 Рік тому +10

    I've made a messenger bag before. Now I want to make a tent! But collecting enough will take awhile. I don't want to just buy plastic for it, I want to save plastic from becoming trash.
    Bags from your favorite places to shop look really neat!

    • @magicalumbrella7151
      @magicalumbrella7151 Рік тому +1

      roofing and tents - excellent

    • @twotone3070
      @twotone3070 Рік тому +1

      As someone else has said, plastic bags left outside for some time seem to degrade. There is probably no UV stabiliser in them as they are not intended to last particularly long.

  • @h0tp0t1
    @h0tp0t1 Рік тому +58

    I ironed a lot of plastic bags into bats, hats, capes and many many other Halloween accessories for a Halloween themed recycled fashion show at a youth club. We had great fun for a month planning and designing and a wonderful night on the night. The colours you guys used would be great for decorations.

  • @nicolaclements1477
    @nicolaclements1477 Рік тому +32

    You can make nice l, reusable gift wrap bags to replace the plasticised paper gift bags people normally use. You can just do the seams with an iron or hot glue if you don't want to sew. Just in time for Christmas!

  • @WABWSM
    @WABWSM Рік тому +79

    It would be amazing to see the extent of viable fabric development. Like how big of a sheet and how thick could it be made?
    Also basically anything using leather craft techniques, since you’re already using leather sewing techniques, would be extremely viable as a means of repurposing this kind of plastic. Depending on the tensile strength and effort needed to make a strong enough sheet, you could possibly repurpose plastic bags into belts.
    Love the channel.

    • @CM_CM_
      @CM_CM_ Рік тому +9

      Business Insider has a few videos on factories/companies that have been recycling plastic for many years if you're interested

    • @magueocampo129
      @magueocampo129 Рік тому +3

      Can you use a sewing machine to stitch the plastic and what size needle

    • @vestibulitis
      @vestibulitis Рік тому +5

      @@magueocampo129 I have not done this, but here are guesses: use a topstich needle or denim needle sized to the thread size. Buy heavier weight thread (lower numbers), if possible. Strengthen the thread by running the thread through wax. Some machines will go through the plastic more easily than others if they have a low gear, which is meant for sewing through leather or denim.

    • @barbarahallowell2613
      @barbarahallowell2613 9 місяців тому +1

      I concur, I immediately thought of using this plastic -fabric in my sewing machine. I'd think keeping it slow and low with a heavier thread would do it.
      Now, I've got it in my head to make shoes, eek, the fun could never go nd.😊😊😊

  • @joanadias8480
    @joanadias8480 Рік тому +8

    This seems like a great tecnique to use to make handmade notebook covers

  • @kat_ork
    @kat_ork Рік тому +15

    I am not sure if anyone else has said this yet, but you can very easily sew this with a sewing machine. I used to make litte notebooks by just adding some papers and them sewing straight down the middle. Easy peasy😊

    • @BrothersMake
      @BrothersMake  Рік тому +2

      For sure! We just don’t have a sewing machine :)

    • @missaspnksurmom
      @missaspnksurmom Рік тому +2

      I was wondering about that. Which type of sewing machine needle would you suggest for this project? Sorry if that is a silly question.... I have a sewing machine, but I don't know how to use it yet. 😔

    • @kat_ork
      @kat_ork Рік тому +2

      @@missaspnksurmom depending on how thick your material is. But nothing special. Just a regular needle.

    • @Queer_Nerd_For_Human_Justice
      @Queer_Nerd_For_Human_Justice Рік тому +1

      @@BrothersMake Hand sewing works great for books too ^^

  • @nilamghule6864
    @nilamghule6864 7 днів тому

    Nice ideas you are telling from waste plastic. This is the steps towards ' Save Environment' 👌👌

  • @ZeeZeeTope
    @ZeeZeeTope Рік тому +7

    The black one looks like leather, which opens up a ton of possibilities for use of that “fabric” in craft making. Love this video! Thank you both!

  • @nancyneyedly4587
    @nancyneyedly4587 Рік тому +3

    Make it larger with a strap and you have a little purse, cute!

  • @bliblimama3994
    @bliblimama3994 Рік тому +4

    Make plarn and knit it (or crochet). What is plarn? Plastic yarn. You make sturdy and roomy shopping bags.

  • @skedizzle
    @skedizzle 2 місяці тому

    This is awesome and an extremely accessible idea for tons of people! Almost everybody has plastic bags, an iron, and thread. That's so awesome of you guys. It's so good to see people caring about the planet.

  • @ariamazing555
    @ariamazing555 8 днів тому

    The best content ive seen in 2024❤

  • @christophersmith8014
    @christophersmith8014 Рік тому +9

    Potting soil bags should be good for this. You usually don't even have to cut them; you can just pull them open and their seam will tear into a flat sheet.
    A roasting pan full of sand heated in the oven works as a nice large flat iron. The thermal mass of the sand can keep a constant temperature relative to the mass of the plastic being heated, and you can get it as hot as you'd like with an even distribution.

    • @thatclothgirl
      @thatclothgirl Рік тому +2

      Oooo, YES! Pet food bags as well!

    • @girlnextdoorgrooming
      @girlnextdoorgrooming Рік тому +1

      @@thatclothgirl some pet food bags have mylar in the center.

    • @thatclothgirl
      @thatclothgirl Рік тому +1

      @@girlnextdoorgrooming uh oh. Is that good or bad?

  • @Lladyma
    @Lladyma Рік тому +24

    I’ve done this!!! Thank you for the inspiration 😇. I’ve done one so far, always do a test, but I’m going make more … using my sewing machine. Also, yes using the iron to seal the sides before sewing is a great idea!
    You guys are chuffin’ awesome 🤩!!

  • @odirex
    @odirex Рік тому +4

    nice texture, looks like seaweed

    • @BrothersMake
      @BrothersMake  Рік тому +2

      It’s super interesting isn’t it?!

  • @clouda9023
    @clouda9023 Рік тому +9

    Guys, thank you so much for this. I am a huge eco-womble who makes all sorts of new things out of stuff that's been thrown away (have jumped into skips in the recycling centre with my knife on top of leather sofas that just got dumped - disgusting!). You chaps take it to another level. Your ideas for making new material from so called 'non-recyclable' materials is wonderful. You have a new subscriber.

  • @johnrobinson518
    @johnrobinson518 Рік тому +6

    Brilliant Idea! You guys never cease to amaze me! This is totally brilliant and the possibilities are endless! Thank You both for another excellent tutorial/video! J.R.

    • @johnrobinson518
      @johnrobinson518 Рік тому +2

      P.S. I have seen these bags used for cloth grocery bag liners before, to insulate (and sometimes water proof them) but when you think about it, it is like making the same thing out of the same thing, and it rarely works anyway. I never thought you could actually make something out of them by themselves. Well, that is until you guys came along and showed us this was possible. You Guys Are Truly Amazing. Thanks Again. J.R.

    • @BrothersMake
      @BrothersMake  Рік тому +3

      Thanks for the kind words John. Glad you liked the video!

  • @michellebeckstrom6110
    @michellebeckstrom6110 Рік тому

    Thank you both for caring enough to try to counter this idiotic over proliferation of plastic pollution!!!

  • @carlycharlesworth1497
    @carlycharlesworth1497 Рік тому +1

    I love what you guys stand for. You are simple guys doing complex, and yet simple things. Your work speaks for itself. God richly bless you and all those you love. Have a great week coming!

    • @BrothersMake
      @BrothersMake  Рік тому

      Thank you Carly! That means a lot 🤙🏽

  • @ccorbin83
    @ccorbin83 Рік тому +6

    I have been watching your channel for couple years. But just haven’t tried the HDPE yet. But have fused few layers of plastic bags. Ideas for the plastic bags are shopping bags, rain coats, purses, and rain hats. I have cut bags into continuous strips and twisted (spun) into plastic “yarn” for crocheting.

  • @kathybyers398
    @kathybyers398 Рік тому +5

    I think you could make very durable reusable shopping bags. 🛍 Seems like a perfect medium.

  • @bubbysbub
    @bubbysbub Рік тому +1

    Oooooh, this was a random click watch, but I've been looking for a super, and I mean suuuuper, thin leather-like material for a project, and was resigning myself to paying quite a bit for a synthetic 1mm leather from a specialty place and hoping it would do. The black 'back' of the plastic sheets here is almost exactly what I was after- yahoo! And I get to experiment with a new material, woot! That is also made from recycled material, double woot! I love it, my brain is on fire from an overload of ideas, thank you so much for sharing this!
    As a side note, your delivery of your content is great, very clearly laid out information, no confusion on plastic types, or temperature, very easy to understand instructions, and also, no specialty equipment. I salute you, boys, for your great content. Clapping for you all the way from Australia!

  • @LazFume
    @LazFume 8 місяців тому

    This is the coolest video ever...great work guys...

  • @anaon.industries
    @anaon.industries Рік тому +3

    ideas: make something bigger, like a handbag, a Nintendo Switch case, a phone sock, a laptop case. Let's gooo!

  • @JakeStaines
    @JakeStaines Рік тому +50

    I'm curious how long these sheets last? Old supermarket plastic bags often seem to degrade and get brittle as time goes by, eventually disintegrating into flakes; I've definitely had it happen to an orange Sainsbury's bag as seen in the video! I expect it's due to exposure to UV so it probably isn't a concern for things like wallets which are generally kept in a pocket or bag, but I wonder whethet it would be wise to avoid making things like wearable bags or hats with this technique that might well be out in the sun much more often?

    • @douglasgallardojr4759
      @douglasgallardojr4759 Рік тому +17

      Even if they wear out, it's still worth doing, because it gets them out of the ecosystem for a while and changes them from bags to hat so they're less likely to clog things up when finally discarded. My question is: Can they be reused through the same process after UV breaks them down? Maybe there's a chance for "return your worn hat for a discount on a new one" deals.

    • @silverwater211
      @silverwater211 11 місяців тому +2

      Those that disintegrate into flakes are biodegradable ones, avoid them in a project like this. It is usually written on the bag.

  • @stephaniecranston8134
    @stephaniecranston8134 2 місяці тому

    Everyone will be getting something I make from plastic bags next Christmas!

  • @lynngill1588
    @lynngill1588 Рік тому

    I have used these methods before and have plans to go real big by building a frame out of tubular PVC pipes and then Stretching a thick sheet of this plastic sheeting to cover it as I hae a design that is a tano cover some time and converts to a pop up camper when I want it. I remember a lady on You tube when I first learned this method She was making hand bags and bed rolls for homeless people that she and others made and distributed through their church Great video Please keep them coming

  • @StrawberryPhys
    @StrawberryPhys Рік тому +3

    I did a really similar idea using vinyl placemats from the dollar store. I like your idea using plastic bags. Great job guys! 😁💜

  • @stephschleicher1813
    @stephschleicher1813 Рік тому +8

    Great idea. Agree about using leather needles. I’m wondering if there are any concerns about toxic fumes from heating the plastic up?

    • @donnac5201
      @donnac5201 Рік тому +1

      Yes, you should probably do this outside!

    • @melodyengland4439
      @melodyengland4439 Рік тому

      @@donnac5201 Or maybe just wear a mask, since the covid virus, heck i still have tons of unused masks, i'll always keep some around, cause you just never know, if they'll be another virus outbreak, probably there will be & in the meantime, i will use some when making things out of my plastic bags, i just love the brilliant credit card purse idea.

    • @KristenK78
      @KristenK78 Рік тому +1

      Open a window if at all possible.

  • @krishnarao3768
    @krishnarao3768 Рік тому +2

    Amazing idea! Thanks, for sharing. I did think of raincoats, hats and rain boots.... But I see many have suggested similarly! All the best! You can even think of Dog coats

  • @shybear8o8
    @shybear8o8 2 місяці тому

    OMG. I love this! Thank you 😀

  • @Gatherersmusic
    @Gatherersmusic Рік тому +4

    How about ground sheets for camping/tents?

  • @paulidevoss7249
    @paulidevoss7249 Рік тому +5

    Really great idea! You could use saddle stitch here to give your stitching a nice consistent finish over all. Not too hard to learn & lots of tutorials on youtube atm

  • @buangashady2310
    @buangashady2310 Рік тому +2

    I used plastic bag for making knife handel, you guys motivated me

  • @juliegouker4946
    @juliegouker4946 Рік тому

    I crochet bags from old plastic. They are great for the beach, or produce. I made one especially for foraging.

  • @GavinRudge
    @GavinRudge Рік тому +13

    Curious to see how LDPE travelled in the panini press - works surprisingly well & was able to make a few solid blanks. Given that it's easier to cut a bag rather than a bottle, might experiment further with using bags to make solid things.

  • @actemioq
    @actemioq Рік тому +4

    Qué gran trabajo! Sin duda voy a intentar hacer una para mí! Gran idea para reciclar!!!

  • @samanthalourdesbillones1152
    @samanthalourdesbillones1152 Рік тому +2

    I am excited to use this idea for a laptop envelope where I can store my laptop as extra protection instead of placing it bare inside my bag. Thanks for this!

    • @ischi6200
      @ischi6200 9 місяців тому

      Did you try it? I was thinking a cover for my tablet

  • @aidasoto2936
    @aidasoto2936 Рік тому +1

    A clean work and excellent idea 💡
    Congratulations 🎊 superliked

  • @KernsJW
    @KernsJW Рік тому +5

    Nice idea, but have to say those are more coin purses than wallets. Lets go for level 2 and 3 and make some bifold and trifold wallets along with a money clip and one of those ID holders!

    • @BrothersMake
      @BrothersMake  Рік тому +3

      Yes you’re probably right there. We’ll step it up on the next one 🤙🏽

  • @darleneelko1956
    @darleneelko1956 Рік тому +4

    Priceless video... awesome job!
    Sewing by hand: an Awl can be used. Or use a needle with an extra thread. Stitch with one, while feeding through the back side with the thread to create a stitch like a sewing machine bobbin. At the end, pull it through to seal both threads on one side. BYW, option if you use an overcast stitch, only one needle is needed. It will provide more space inside, but it with use, will wear the threads more.
    I wonder if these plastic sheets would go through the papercraft cutting machine to make the holes. One question... separating the colors of plastic, was there a main reason?

  • @kathycardiff7719
    @kathycardiff7719 Місяць тому

    These look so sweet!

  • @huandeng335
    @huandeng335 Рік тому

    Really appreciate it! In addition to being a very practical and doable way to reduce plastic bags, it is also an excellent project for DIY lovers!

  • @janice2992
    @janice2992 Рік тому +4

    If surgical sewer's are in short supply I think you guys will be great. Thank you for inspiring video ☺️

  • @DeanTheDoctor
    @DeanTheDoctor Рік тому +4

    Thanks everyone. Stay awesome out there you guys. 😊🌎✨

  • @jphiking
    @jphiking Рік тому

    As a kid in Scouts we handwove plastic bags to make what we called a “situpon,” a super lightweight mat to sit on whilst hiking.

  • @florchus1987
    @florchus1987 Рік тому

    Hi! I'm Flor from Montevideo, Uruguay and I love your channel. I'm an entrepreneur that makes felt toys for kids and different fabric items. Thanks to this video I've explored the technique and made lots of different articles. Let's keep recycling and reusing! Thank you!!!!

  • @CTCTraining1
    @CTCTraining1 Рік тому +6

    Excellent video guys ... and from the start I was wondering how those coop bags would work in the final mix. Keep up the great work 😀👍

    • @BrothersMake
      @BrothersMake  Рік тому +1

      They were definitely interesting to work with! Thanks for watching Chris 🤙🏽

  • @TiredMomma
    @TiredMomma Рік тому +5

    Question!
    1: How long is the nylon thread?
    2: What ever happened to the pretty flower? 🌷
    3: Does this template fit most credit/debit cards? (I saw the cash but that can be folded to fit whereas cards can't)

    • @BrothersMake
      @BrothersMake  Рік тому +6

      Answers!
      1. Probably about 30-40cm
      2. We've yet to do anything with it - so are saving it for when we have a bright idea (of course open to suggestions!)
      3. Yep, it fits about 6 cards in 🤙🏼
      Enjoy!

  • @stephenjanes103
    @stephenjanes103 Рік тому

    Thank you. You guys are great. We collect bags from our beaches and sometimes offshore. Now we will use your technique to make "plastic fabrics". My wife has many great design ideas for this material.

  • @antoniatiu6944
    @antoniatiu6944 Рік тому +2

    WOW! You just gave me an idea. I'll create a 16"x 20" artwork out these plastic bags I have and also make some place mats!. I'll see how it goes.Thank you. Thank you!!

  • @aliciapaul2536
    @aliciapaul2536 Рік тому +6

    Hi, would you be able to mix other fabrics like cotton calico between layers? And what's the limit on layers can you do?

  • @jrvn94
    @jrvn94 Рік тому +3

    This is really cool, and a great initiative!
    Do you think you'd be able to make watch straps from this material?

  • @mamamoon65
    @mamamoon65 Рік тому +1

    Brilliantly executed! Thanks for sharing!

  • @leesse
    @leesse Рік тому +1

    Whoa! That's AWESOME! I'm picking my jaw up off the floor right now! What a Brilliant Idea! Now I'm off to find plastic bags! You Guys Rock! ♥

  • @db7059
    @db7059 Рік тому +4

    Plastic bags into wallet. Wish I saw this sooner. I denied people for giving me recycle plastic bags.

  • @robinaanstey3734
    @robinaanstey3734 Рік тому

    Brilliant!!! The possibilities with this technique is endless....cheers from sunny FL 🙂

  • @w6263
    @w6263 9 місяців тому

    Really minimalist wallets. Great idea!

  • @VaibhavShewale
    @VaibhavShewale 5 місяців тому +3

    why not commercialized by slaping a small logo

  • @ruangbelajariska
    @ruangbelajariska 2 місяці тому

    thank you for the amazing idea, I have a lot of plastic bags, and I want to try making my own recycling bag.

  • @anneyounger7894
    @anneyounger7894 Рік тому +1

    I think I'm going to try to make shopping totes from the grocery store bags I end up collecting (when I forget my totes in the car.) In my state, stores charge for bags (about 8 cents each) so it is definitely an incentive to reuse and recycle those. I mean, collecting as much a dollar's worth of bags on one shopping trip means I'm throwing away money if I don't recycle! And recycle programs here don't accept bags.
    I already upcycle paper bags by making paper mache items. So upcycling plastic bags will get me closer to net-zero waste.

    • @BrothersMake
      @BrothersMake  Рік тому +2

      That's a great idea Anne, we're actually planning on making a video on using this technique to make a tote style bag - so watch this space! Great idea with the paper bag upcycling too 👍🏼

  • @user-zq5ev1sh8c
    @user-zq5ev1sh8c 4 місяці тому +1

    I put my bags through a paper shredder. It was much faster. I did remove logos etc first. Thanks for sharing

  • @travisjohnston1923
    @travisjohnston1923 Місяць тому

    Also, on your stitching it's just like leatherwork. You made a stitching pony, and had a great idea for stitching. to make it better work your stitches one hole at a time, put both needles in the same hole at the same time, gives a better stitch quality and permanence.

  • @tinasally379
    @tinasally379 Рік тому

    You guys are awesome!!! I never thought anything could be done with all the bags we have. Thank you for posting this video!!! 💖💕💓

  • @NX10EnExten
    @NX10EnExten Рік тому

    You have a present for your missus. He will love you.

  • @user-gk9ut9qc1o
    @user-gk9ut9qc1o Рік тому +1

    Such a great idea! Not only recycles plastic, but also replaces real leather! Two birds with one stone

  • @ritatorres1627
    @ritatorres1627 Рік тому +1

    Great job guys! Luv from Ont Canada 💕 Ya"ll are adorable too 💕

  • @fukuccccccc
    @fukuccccccc 11 місяців тому

    I appreciate what you are doing with this material and the creative ideas that y'all apply quality craftsmanship. Good on ya! ☺

  • @beccalee199
    @beccalee199 Рік тому +2

    I simply love love love love love the way you guys make this project doable for everyone. I’ll try to use the technique to make something as well as soon as I find some plastic bags, since I hid all we had and replaced them with paper and fabric ones so that we don’t use the bad stuff when we already have better ones 😅

  • @svarteroser.
    @svarteroser. Рік тому +2

    This is so awesome! Thank you so much for the guide 🖤 keep rocking!

  • @Maven775
    @Maven775 Рік тому

    I cut plastic bags into strips that I attach together in to plarn and crochet into sleeping matts for the homeless. It helps keep people off the ground. They are lightweight , easily cleaned and each sleeping matt keeps 100 plastic bags out of the landfill! But after seeing this I am thinking it COULD in theory be done with your method as well