Coffee Sack Gift Tote
Repurpose burlap coffee bags to create rustic gift totes that can be used again and again.

Materials Needed:
- large coffee bags (ask local coffee shop or gourmet market for empty bags)
- twine or leather cording
- needle and thread or sewing machine
- various embellishments
- rotary cutting blade and mat
- scissors
Iron Bag
Remove wrinkles from bag by ironing it with a damp pressing cloth.

Remove Seams
Carefully cut off outer seams of bag; they are too thick to sew through and will be used later as tote handles.

Cut Bag
Each large coffee bag will create four totes, so cut bag into fourths.

Sew Together
Stitch two sides and the bottom of each tote together using a top stitch on the sewing machine.

Cut Handles
Cut previously removed seams into eight 14-inch pieces to create handles.

Attach Handles
Attach handles to either the outside or inside of bag using a sewing machine or with hand stitching. If desired, add a bow, pin, the recipient's initials or other embellishments to finished tote. Tip: Experiment with creating other gift bag styles such as envelopes, drawstring bags and traditional gift wrap using this resourceful material.
