DIY Rustic Jute Cord Bracelets from Reused Plastic Bags - A Fun and Eco-Friendly Project

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Looking for a fun and eco-friendly DIY project? Try making rustic and natural bracelets using plastic grocery bags! This is a great way to upcycle those bags and reduce waste. All you need are some basic tools and materials, like scissors, glue, and of course, the plastic bags. Simply cut, braid, and glue to create your own unique and stylish bracelets. With this simple yet creative project, you'll have a set of bracelets that are not only fashionable but also environmentally conscious. So why not give it a try? Enjoy making your own one-of-a-kind plastic bag bracelets!

Tools & Materials

• ​Plastic grocery bags
• Jute Cord
• Fabric glue 
• Coconut shell buttons
• Natural polished hemp cord (20 lb)
• Scissors
• Clipboard (optional)

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Creating the Braid Using Plastic Grocery Bags

Instructions:

1. Prepare a plastic grocery bag by removing any stickers or labels.
2. Cut both sides of the plastic bag to make it a long rectangular shape.
3. Fold the plastic bag into thirds and cut it into three pieces.
4. Make strips: Layer the three pieces on top of each other and fold them in half. Cut them in half again.
5. Repeat the process twice more.
6. Tape the top of the strips together to secure them. Now you have a large tassel.
7. Attach the top of the strips to a clipboard, if you have one, to make braiding easier. Divide the strips into three equal sections and start braiding a 3-strand braid.
8. Braid until you reach the desired length for your bracelet (approximately 7-8 inches depending on wrist size).
9. Tape the end of the strips together and cut off any excess plastic bag strips.

Creating the Bracelet

Instructions:

1. Using fabric glue, wrap jute cord around the plastic braid.
2. Keep wrapping until it is completely covered. You will have a jute cord wrapped stick (bracelet base).
3. Take two different sized coconut shell beads and layer them. Thread hemp cord through the buttonholes.
4. Place the coconut buttons in the midpoint of the jute cord wrapped bracelet base. Wrap the hemp cord around the jute stick and tie a knot. Use fabric glue to secure it.
5. Repeat the process to attach a small coconut button to one end of the jute cord wrapped stick.
6. Create a loop closure: Cut a 36-inch hemp cord. Fold it in half three times and tie a loop knot.
7. Place the hemp cord loop on one end of the jute cord wrapped stick.
8. Using fabric glue, wrap a jute cord around the hemp cord loop to secure it.
9. Now you have a loop and button closure jute cord wrapped bracelet.

​​​Please note that any crafts or DIY projects should be attempted with caution.

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Recycling Plastic Bags at Retail Stores

Recycling Bins at Target

In most locations, plastic bags, wraps, and films cannot be recycled in curbside bins, but many local retail stores offer drop-off points for recycling them. Check online for drop-off locations near you, and you may find stores like Target that provide recycling bins for plastic bags, films, and wraps, contributing to efforts in reducing plastic waste and promoting a greener environment.

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