Recently, I designed a sewing project almost completely from recycled materials, and I’m excited to share it with you! In fact, the only new item was my fabric. I chose two prints from “Rough Around the Edges” by Funny Girl for Studio E Fabrics.
Do you ever struggle with having too many cardboard boxes around the house? I normally save the cardboard boxes until I have enough to take to the community recycling bins located at the public park. If you have a large box laying around, cut this cardboard into 3 pieces (13.5” x 21.5”) and save them a rainy day—that’s enough to make one cat tunnel.
How about that thick insulated filler that comes with refrigerated meals like Factor and Home Chef? I had stashed a lot of the insulated “batting” knowing I’m a crafter and I’d find a use for it somehow! Again, cut the batting into 3 pieces (13.5” x 21.5”). You can tape smaller sections together with packing tape to make them fit the pattern.
If you’re ready to sew this cat tunnel, I’m sharing the free sewing pattern over at SIY Sew It Yourself!
There are lots of recyclable items that you can use for sewing projects. Here are just a few ideas:
Cardboard boxes can be used to make false bottoms in tote bags.
Insulated batting can be used to make lunch bags and children’s play mats.
There are lots of recyclable items that you can use for sewing projects. Here are just a few ideas!
- Cardboard boxes can be used to make false bottoms in tote bags.
- Insulated batting from old lunch bags or delivery packaging can be reused to make new lunch totes, children’s play mats, or pot holders.
- Old jeans can be cut into durable fabric pieces for quilts, bags, or even patchwork aprons.
- Worn-out t-shirts can be turned into soft quilt blocks, braided rugs, or reusable shopping bags.
- Plastic grocery bags can be fused together with an iron (using parchment paper) to create a waterproof lining for wet bags or cosmetic pouches.
- Buttons, zippers, and fabric scraps from worn-out clothing can be salvaged and reused as embellishments or for mending other garments.
- Even cereal boxes can be cut up and used as templates for quilting shapes or stabilizers for small fabric projects like bookmarks or journal covers.
Whether I’m sewing with new fabric or recycled materials, my Baby Lock Ballad sewing machine charges right through every project like a champ! I’m an ambassador for Baby Lock and I will never be able to go back to sewing with a lesser quality machine.
Did you know you can save 10% on any machine, accessory, or software at Baby Lock.com? Use my affiliate link!
Happy sewing! Please tag me on Instagram @LindsaySews if you make this cat tunnel sewing project.