Introduction: Grocery Bag Jewelry
Thrift? Frugality? Eco-accessories? Something you can do while being lazy on the couch? You got it!
This Instructable shows how to make a macrame bracelet entirely out of grocery bags (and a few beads if you prefer). This same technique can also be applied to making a ring.
Step 1: Materials
- Scissors
- Plastic Grocery Bags
- Lighter
- Bottle
- Beads (optional)
Step 2: Cut Bag
Cut off the bottom of the bag.
Using your index finger as measurement, start cutting a long, spiraled band from the bag. It won't really curl, but think of it like peeling an apple in one solid strip.
Step 3: Make a Wrap
Wrap the grocery bag ribbon several times around a bottle. Double check that the resulting circle will fit over your hand.
Step 4: Start Knotting
Leave a "tail" of one end of the wrap exposed, and with the other end, start tying a series of half hitches.
Step 5: Knot End and Snip
Knot the "tail" and the end you've been working with.
Snip the excess.
You can stop here if you like! Or continue on...
Step 6: Make the Twine
Cut a grocery bag into thin strips.
In groups of 4, start twisting it into twine.
Once you have enough (~12"/30cm), you can snip the beginning end and melt it a bit with a lighter. This will make beading easier.
If you need extra length:
- Bundle 4 more strips and overlap with a bit of excess where you've already twisted.
- Twist the new bundle a few times before adding another bundle to the other half in the same way. This will keep things orderly with minimal confusion and enough fingers to keep going.
- Once you've worked through a few twists, you can snip away the excess and continue twisting.
Step 7: Beading
Thread the twine through the half hitch loops and add a bead between the weaving.
Knot the ends and snip excess.
Done!
Finalist in the
Unusual Uses: Kitchen Challenge