Going Green with Cloth Shopping Bags

I was so inspired by a visit to one of my favorite blogs last week, when Anna posted about her new cloth shopping bags. When she promised a tutorial, I got even more excited, and dug through my stash to see if I had what it took – only a yard of fabric, and about an hour’s time! I had the cloth, found some nice corresponding yardage at Walmart for $1/yrd., and carved out the time last week to make my own collection of bags.

I admit to being compulsive – I made all 8 bags in two days! Even when my sewing machine jammed, I didn’t let it stop me – I got out my trusty old treadle and peddled away! I had forgotten just how much I loved sewing on it – it runs so smooth and quietly!

Once they were finished, I could hardly wait to go grocery shopping – justification enough for the project – I dislike shopping normally! But here I was, eagerly waiting for the chance to use my bags. I even dreamed about them – that I had forgotten them, and had to use plastic bags after all!

What do you know, it happened – I ran into Wegman’s for 2 things (which turned into 6) on Friday, and at the checkout realized I had missed my first opportunity. 🙁 OH, well, I asked for paper. 🙂

This week I was determined to remember, and I had the most enjoyable shopping trip! Maybe it is ’cause I’m finally getting the hang of getting in and out of the stores quickly with what I need, maybe it’s ’cause I found some good sales. But I think the magic was in my lovely cloth bags keeping me company all through the trip! The corduroy-lined one worked great for keeping my cold stuff insulated on the way home, too! 🙂