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

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  • čas přidán 8. 06. 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
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    Music by Epidemic Sound
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Komentáře • 1,1K

  • @BrothersMake
    @BrothersMake  Před rokem +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 Před rokem +26

      I need to make some shopping bags with this idea .

    • @BrothersMake
      @BrothersMake  Před rokem +28

      Bag for life made out of recycled bags! Love it

    • @inventtory1272
      @inventtory1272 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +37

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

    • @Se9n.
      @Se9n. Před rokem +11

      Shoes

  • @laurelchan2640
    @laurelchan2640 Před rokem +1116

    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  Před rokem +49

      Awesome stuff! Sounds great

    • @lifeisfunny6486
      @lifeisfunny6486 Před rokem +35

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

    • @traceyseymour7700
      @traceyseymour7700 Před rokem +12

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

    • @JMBBrasil
      @JMBBrasil Před rokem +7

      Uau. Would love to see it!

    • @dau1arys301
      @dau1arys301 Před rokem +1

      @@JMBBrasil I too

  • @cornelsyrzysko5897
    @cornelsyrzysko5897 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +27

      My mom crocheted some mats from plastic bags as well.

    • @PrincessV444
      @PrincessV444 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +11

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

    • @Jade-uh7ep
      @Jade-uh7ep Před rokem +9

      Ohoh I want to see that!!

    • @rhodawatkins4516
      @rhodawatkins4516 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +223

    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 Před 10 měsíci +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 Před rokem +146

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

  • @leandrogaldeano7731
    @leandrogaldeano7731 Před rokem +261

    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  Před rokem +29

      Book covers is actually on our list! Thanks man!

    • @eugenetswong
      @eugenetswong Před rokem +7

      What about a clipboard?

    • @gomathisuppiah2449
      @gomathisuppiah2449 Před rokem +6

      I had the same thought. Great minds ehh? haha

    • @jokingpirate
      @jokingpirate Před rokem +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 Před měsícem

      I also thought the same

  • @82gamerprincess31
    @82gamerprincess31 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +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 Před rokem

      @@mermaidleesi o

    • @ward26102
      @ward26102 Před rokem +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.

  • @debbrady497
    @debbrady497 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +1

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

    • @debbrady497
      @debbrady497 Před rokem +1

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

    • @debbrady497
      @debbrady497 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +2

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

  • @regannoble8947
    @regannoble8947 Před rokem +17

    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 Před rokem

      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. 🎨

  • @oojagapivy
    @oojagapivy Před rokem +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. Před rokem +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 Před rokem +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. Před rokem +3

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

    • @oojagapivy
      @oojagapivy Před rokem +11

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

    • @bhornannawindeedeigh5007
      @bhornannawindeedeigh5007 Před rokem +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. 👍🏾

  • @greenmtnmellie
    @greenmtnmellie Před rokem +10

    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.

  • @marillaarguelles7362
    @marillaarguelles7362 Před rokem +3

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

  • @crawkn
    @crawkn Před rokem +41

    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 Před rokem +2

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

    • @justinereynolds4261
      @justinereynolds4261 Před rokem

      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 Před rokem +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!

  • @carolinewhaley6804
    @carolinewhaley6804 Před rokem +58

    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  Před rokem +2

      That’s a great way to use them up!

    • @KCCAT5
      @KCCAT5 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +4

      what is plam?

    • @FaeryRene
      @FaeryRene Před rokem +7

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

  • @jlarts
    @jlarts Před rokem +82

    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  Před rokem +23

      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 Před rokem +7

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

    • @jlarts
      @jlarts Před rokem +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 Před rokem +14

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

    • @Timri3681
      @Timri3681 Před rokem +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!

  • @PumpkinPails
    @PumpkinPails Před 2 měsíci +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. ♻️

  • @irinadalah9089
    @irinadalah9089 Před 5 měsíci +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...

  • @stigyanblue1442
    @stigyanblue1442 Před rokem +11

    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 Před rokem +1

      roofing and tents - excellent

    • @twotone3070
      @twotone3070 Před rokem +2

      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.

  • @nilsschenkel7149
    @nilsschenkel7149 Před rokem +41

    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 Před rokem +1

      Yup! :)

    • @drkatel
      @drkatel Před rokem +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 Před rokem +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.

  • @savvivixen8490
    @savvivixen8490 Před rokem +21

    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!

  • @Timri3681
    @Timri3681 Před rokem +44

    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  Před rokem +3

      That sounds very cool!

    • @ccorbin83
      @ccorbin83 Před rokem +2

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

    • @Timri3681
      @Timri3681 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +4

      Does the material float? You could make boat keychains.

    • @denalihedgehog
      @denalihedgehog Před 9 měsíci

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

  • @WABWSM
    @WABWSM Před rokem +80

    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_ Před rokem +9

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

    • @magueocampo129
      @magueocampo129 Před rokem +3

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

    • @vestibulitis
      @vestibulitis Před rokem +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 Před 9 měsíci +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.😊😊😊

  • @lisafriloux1713
    @lisafriloux1713 Před rokem +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  Před rokem +3

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

  • @RobC901
    @RobC901 Před rokem +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!!!!!!

  • @serenitydavis1828
    @serenitydavis1828 Před rokem +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.

  • @barbarahallowell2613
    @barbarahallowell2613 Před 9 měsíci +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! 😊

  • @maryhornbostel6959
    @maryhornbostel6959 Před rokem +26

    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  Před rokem +2

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

  • @nicolaclements1477
    @nicolaclements1477 Před rokem +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!

  • @allensketchclub8579
    @allensketchclub8579 Před rokem +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  Před rokem +2

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

    • @hameley12
      @hameley12 Před rokem

      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. 😄

  • @h0tp0t1
    @h0tp0t1 Před rokem +59

    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.

  • @clouda9023
    @clouda9023 Před rokem +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.

  • @sharonruff3837
    @sharonruff3837 Před rokem +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!!!

  • @seameology
    @seameology Před rokem +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 Před rokem +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 Před 3 měsíci

      Ooh good idea!

  • @joanadias8480
    @joanadias8480 Před rokem +8

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

  • @ZeeZeeTope
    @ZeeZeeTope Před rokem +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!

  • @Lladyma
    @Lladyma Před rokem +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 🤩!!

  • @bliblimama3994
    @bliblimama3994 Před rokem +4

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

  • @kat_ork
    @kat_ork Před rokem +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  Před rokem +2

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

    • @missaspnksurmom
      @missaspnksurmom Před rokem +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 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +1

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

  • @BeCreativewithTerryJeanette

    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.

  • @nancyneyedly4587
    @nancyneyedly4587 Před rokem +3

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

  • @odirex
    @odirex Před rokem +4

    nice texture, looks like seaweed

  • @JakeStaines
    @JakeStaines Před rokem +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 Před rokem +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 Před 11 měsíci +2

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

  • @carlycharlesworth1497
    @carlycharlesworth1497 Před rokem +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  Před rokem

      Thank you Carly! That means a lot 🤙🏽

  • @nilamghule6864
    @nilamghule6864 Před 18 dny

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

  • @Gatherersmusic
    @Gatherersmusic Před rokem +4

    How about ground sheets for camping/tents?

  • @anaon.industries
    @anaon.industries Před rokem +3

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

  • @skedizzle
    @skedizzle Před 3 měsíci

    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.

  • @bubbysbub
    @bubbysbub Před rokem +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!

  • @christophersmith8014
    @christophersmith8014 Před rokem +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.

  • @kathybyers398
    @kathybyers398 Před rokem +5

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

  • @LazFume
    @LazFume Před 8 měsíci

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

  • @ariamazing555
    @ariamazing555 Před 19 dny

    The best content ive seen in 2024❤

  • @ccorbin83
    @ccorbin83 Před rokem +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.

  • @johnrobinson518
    @johnrobinson518 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +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  Před rokem +3

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

  • @buangashady2310
    @buangashady2310 Před rokem +2

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

  • @huandeng335
    @huandeng335 Před rokem

    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!

  • @StrawberryPhys
    @StrawberryPhys Před rokem +3

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

  • @GavinRudge
    @GavinRudge Před rokem +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.

  • @beccalee199
    @beccalee199 Před rokem +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 😅

  • @krishnarao3768
    @krishnarao3768 Před rokem +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

  • @actemioq
    @actemioq Před rokem +4

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

  • @stephschleicher1813
    @stephschleicher1813 Před rokem +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 Před rokem +1

      Yes, you should probably do this outside!

    • @melodyengland4439
      @melodyengland4439 Před rokem

      @@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 Před rokem +1

      Open a window if at all possible.

  • @stephenjanes103
    @stephenjanes103 Před rokem

    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.

  • @paulidevoss7249
    @paulidevoss7249 Před rokem +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

  • @darleneelko1956
    @darleneelko1956 Před rokem +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?

  • @michellebeckstrom6110

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

  • @mamamoon65
    @mamamoon65 Před rokem +1

    Brilliantly executed! Thanks for sharing!

  • @CTCTraining1
    @CTCTraining1 Před rokem +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  Před rokem +1

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

  • @DeanTheDoctor
    @DeanTheDoctor Před rokem +4

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

  • @leesse
    @leesse Před rokem +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! ♥

  • @fruitsalad5976
    @fruitsalad5976 Před rokem +2

    can't wait to see more projects made from plastic bags! it's easy enough that most of us can easily try these methods! good job!

  • @janice2992
    @janice2992 Před rokem +4

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

  • @KernsJW
    @KernsJW Před rokem +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  Před rokem +3

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

  • @florchus1987
    @florchus1987 Před rokem

    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!!!!

  • @robinaanstey3734
    @robinaanstey3734 Před rokem

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

  • @aliciapaul2536
    @aliciapaul2536 Před rokem +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?

  • @TiredMomma
    @TiredMomma Před rokem +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  Před rokem +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!

  • @tinasally379
    @tinasally379 Před rokem

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

  • @fukuccccccc
    @fukuccccccc Před rokem

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

  • @jrvn94
    @jrvn94 Před rokem +3

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

  • @db7059
    @db7059 Před rokem +4

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

  • @shybear8o8
    @shybear8o8 Před 3 měsíci

    OMG. I love this! Thank you 😀

  • @kathycardiff7719
    @kathycardiff7719 Před 2 měsíci

    These look so sweet!

  • @VaibhavShewale
    @VaibhavShewale Před 6 měsíci +3

    why not commercialized by slaping a small logo

  • @svarteroser.
    @svarteroser. Před rokem +2

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

  • @samanthalourdesbillones1152

    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 Před 10 měsíci

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

  • @jacobopstad5483
    @jacobopstad5483 Před rokem +2

    Cool!
    I've used plastic bags for a few things like making handles for silverware. Instead of melting the plastic, I just wrapped the bag in layers around the utensils. It's not quite as sturdy or attractive as fused plastic but it also consumes no energy. I have also melted some of them after wrapping and I was satisfied with the result.

  • @anamariajohnson3123
    @anamariajohnson3123 Před rokem

    This is one of the best and most versatile ideas I’ve seen! I have to try this with all the plastic bags I have

  • @antoniatiu6944
    @antoniatiu6944 Před rokem +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!!

  • @user-zq5ev1sh8c
    @user-zq5ev1sh8c Před 5 měsíci +1

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

  • @aidasoto2936
    @aidasoto2936 Před rokem +1

    A clean work and excellent idea 💡
    Congratulations 🎊 superliked

  • @doloresmoreno6950
    @doloresmoreno6950 Před rokem +1

    I loved your work! Thanks for inspiring us. Many ideas came to my mind ! When I do them I will tell you how they went.

  • @MATCHAshells
    @MATCHAshells Před rokem

    Thank you a million Mann! Brilliant. Too enthusiastic to make one for everyone in my life and show how fun it is to upcycle ♻️ something that would other wise ending up in the gullet of a living thing.

  • @johnrickanadillo4794
    @johnrickanadillo4794 Před rokem

    I'm gonna use this because its beautiful thank you❤

  • @jelias9247
    @jelias9247 Před rokem

    OMGosh!! I’m going to make lots of things with this knowledge!!! Thank you so much for making your videos!!!

  • @lesliemorrison1305
    @lesliemorrison1305 Před rokem

    I love the stuff you guys come up with

  • @blazehammer192
    @blazehammer192 Před rokem +2

    Thank you! Always wanted to find a better use then using those bags for trash bags

  • @pamdooley8834
    @pamdooley8834 Před rokem +1

    I love this idea! Can't wait to try it out for myself. Thanks so much :)

  • @skensastudio22
    @skensastudio22 Před rokem +1

    Wow.. amazing... Thanks for the pattern..

  • @Hannah-jk3dk
    @Hannah-jk3dk Před rokem

    I just love this. It is the best youtube channel I have seen. Creative and you wowed me