How to Fix String Bags

I love these string grocery bags that we received as a wedding gift many years ago.  They’re nice because they’re small enough to be tucked in a handbag or in a pocket while out shopping  They’ve held up really well over the last 22-years but were showing signs of wear and tear (thankfully, the years have been kinder to my marriage!!).  Rather than toss them out and buy new ones, I found a way to keep these bags from getting bigger holes.  And, the fix involved using pens, which is always an added bonus.

First, I zig-zag stitched the handles.  I had matching blue thread and set my sewing machine on a tight, wide stitch and went back and forth where the handle and bag come together.  The hole was next….

I rounded up some packaging twine that was my souvenir from our recent trip to Chinatown. 

Then I cut small pieces and doubled them.

And tied them in square knots onto the strings that looked like they went together.  Once they were good and tight, I trimmed the edges.

Then I used a blue permanent marking pen and colored them blue.  Ok, I didn’t have to do that step but I love pens!  Finished!

The test on the bags?  I sent my husband and daughter to the grocery store with the bag and they gave it the “thumbs-up” on the repairs.  After these simple fixes, I think the bags will go another 22-years.  Cross my fingers that my husband can handle me for that long!!

Related Links:
Frugal and green wedding gift ideas
String bags used in grocery shopping
Got a canvas bag with an ugly logo on it?  Add a pocket to it!
I love using pens, too.  Read all about it here.