In my last post, I mentioned that I would be talking to Pat Sloan about using unusual materials in making bags – here’s a project that may spark your creativity – a Tyvek Tote!

Tyvek (I used the regular home wrap type) is a material which combines the properties of paper, film and fabric – it is strong in dry or wet conditions,  breathes, resists moisture, it’s lightweight and strong. What a great material for a re-usable shopping bag!

Here’s how I made it:

**Before you start: You cannot iron or put Tyvek in a clothes dryer because it will shrink away and “melt” – you will have to decide if this is the right material for you. You can put it in the washer on a cool setting and let it drip dry to clean it.

1. 1. Cut 1 piece of Tyvek and 1 piece of fabric 23″ x 36″.
2. “Pin” right sides together with paper clips and sew all around. I used my walking foot and also decreased my thread tension to achieve a good stitch. I used a 100% poly (good quality) thread and a universal (80) needle – I had no problems with skipping. I also sewed it together with the tyvek on top of the fabric.  Leave an opening to turn.
3. Turn your rectangle right sides out and machine stitch your opening closed.
4. With Tyvek facing inside, match the narrow edges and sew up the sides. Bring the bottom towards the side and box the corners if you like.
5. Topstitch around the top edge, about 1″ down from edge.
6. Add webbing or handles on the outside (instructions for strong Tyvek handles will be in tomorrow’s post).  Voila! A cool shopping bag!

Remember to listen to Pat Sloan’s Creative Talk Radio today at 4:00 PM EST for more fun ideas!

Have fun with this and think outside the bag! -Kris