There are certain perks to buying coffee beans. For one, you get to brew your own coffee at home just the way you like it. Another perk? You get to collect empty foil coffee bags. And if your household drinks as much coffee as mine, that means lots of empty coffee bags for some fun, upcycling crafts. So, the next time you use up all your coffee, don’t throw the empty foil bags yet because we will show you how you can repurpose your coffee bags.
If you’ve ever been out with no umbrella on a rainy day, then you’d know how frustrating it is to come back home cold and drenched, only to find out that your bag and wallet (along with everything in them) is soaking wet as well. Not to worry, though, because today we will teach you how to upcycle your foil coffee bags to create durable and waterproof wallets and bags.
Step 1: Cleaning your empty coffee bags.
Cut off the top and bottom of your coffee bags, then peel to open at the back seams to create one rectangular piece. Most bags have a vacuum button (a hard plastic disc you can find in the center of the bag) so remove that, too. The smell of coffee tends to stick to the foil so make sure to thoroughly wash the bags with soap and water. Rinse and dry completely.
Step 2: Making the pattern.
If you don’t know how to make a bag and/or wallet pattern, feel free to go online and download one. There are countless of bag and wallet patterns available online for free, so go ahead and choose one that you like in terms of style and function. If you do know how to make patterns, go ahead and create your own. Make it as simple or as complicated as you want – it’s up to you!
Step 3: Transferring the pattern.
While one foil bag is often enough to create a wallet (depending on the design), it would be too small for a tote or messenger bag. What you can do is lay several pieces of cleaned foil bags side by side and join them (you can either sew the pieces together or use fabric glue) to create one big piece. Transfer your pattern onto the foil and cut the pieces.
Step 4: Assembling the bag/wallet.
While you can just duct tape the seams of your bag/wallet, the end product will not be as durable as when sewn. So, using a sewing machine (or a double-threaded needle, if you don’t have a sewing machine), sew along the seams and hems of the material. Sew in the pockets and compartments, as well. Now, if you don’t know how to sew, don’t worry because you can still do this project. Using a fabric glue, which you can buy from any craft store, glue the seams and hems. Press down the glued parts and allow to dry completely.
Voila! You now have your fully-customized and waterproof coffee foil bag and wallet. Make more and give them as gifts to the coffee-lovers in your life. They will surely love this unique gift that boasts your personal touch.