Project designed by Mary O'Neil.
Large or small bags may be used for this project, but for smaller baskets, one of the paper bags should be larger than the other three because it will be used to construct the handle. Three bags nest together with the sides neatly folded down. The fourth bag will have the bottom cut out of it, and the sides will be folded repeatedly to form the handle.
Materials:
four paper bags
Hot Potatoes big, bold rubber stamps
stamp pads
raffia, twine, or ribbon for fastening bags together
large sharp needle (for raffia)
Steps:
- Start with one bag and neatly fold the top edge down about an inch. Smooth the fold with your fingers for a finished look, and continue to fold the bag all the way down till the bag resembles a tray. The final roll will be about one inch or less from the bottom.
- Using the second bag, place it inside the first bag and roll it all the way down in exactly the same manner. The final roll will meet the top edge of the first bag.
- Place the third bag inside the first two bags (figure A). Do exactly the same rolling technique until the last roll is meeting the top of bag two.
- Cut the bottom off the last bag. Roll this bag until you have a large loop that will become the handle.
- Take the bags apart and decorate them with stamps or other means (figure B).
- Nest the bags back together and position the "handle" produced by the larger bag.
- Thread the needle and secure the bag at two places on each side. The bag needs to be attached between the edges of the first and second bag, and must be secure between the edges of the second and third bag. Form an X on the outside of the bag as you do this (figure C).
- Fill the bag with baked goods, potted plants, gifts, or hobby supplies.
Tips:
- Even bags with printing on them can be used since the print will not show when the bag is rolled down.
- Cut off the top three or four inches of each bag if you are making several. It saves a lot of time.
- If you're short on time, just hot glue or staple the bags together rather than sewing with the raffia.
- For decoration, fruits, flowers, and small decorative vegetables may be glued to the basket.
Resources rubber stamps
Hot Potatoes
Website:
www.hotpotatoes.com
Marvy Matchables stamp pads
Available in local craft and hobby stores.
Uchida of America, Corp.
Website:
www.marvy.com Guests Mary O'Neil
President, Owner
Hot Potatoes
Website:
www.hotpotatoes.com Also in this Episode
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