I've got a bag that folds up and then snaps so it stays folded. It's not much bigger than a checkbook when folded, but opens up to hold a lot. I've started carrying it in my purse. I've also seen ripstop nylon bags that fold into their own tiny duffle bag for carrying in a purse or pocket.
Julia > I like the floral paper bags and the small flat bottomed bags with the
I agree with using what we already have in new or different ways. It makes me feel better knowing that more energy isn't being used to make more of what I already have or to recycle it into a different product. We do a lot of grocery shopping at Aldi's which requires you buy bags or bring your own. By double bagging my groceries, I've found I can reuse them for up to a year before they get enough holes in them to require replacing.
There is a gentleman whose only income is from the yard work he does in our neighborhood, and we've been helping him with meals for about four years. I put the food into quart plastic bags and lay them flat in the freezer (because they took up less room). However, even though I think it looks tacky, I have begun putting the food in containers that I get when I buy food at the grocery store, and just make a bit more room in the freezer available for them. Recycling takes added energy use, re-using doesn't. Manufacturing plastic bags takes energy, not buying them doesn't.
Did you wash it?
(Sorry, could not resist!)
Hanne in London
Marilyn: Congrats! on your new store! that's my dream to do someday, also!
i have asked around here at work and my family, they all say the best business card is what you take away. Your bag, Your business name or logo on the bag, and a big smile with a Thank you!. Never, Ever, reuse a Wally world or grocery store bag for your own business, it's just cheezy. Even if you get those wallpaper dollar store bags and put a business label on them is better than those.
just my 2 cents.
good luck with your new store!!! where will it be??
amy in CNY
Thanks to everyone. The question was asked to help me see what everyone was looking for in a bag. And for every response I got, with the exception of possibly reusing a bag I had already bought something in hopes of doing the recycling thing, was an answer I had in my head. There are pro's and con's for plastic, paper, and cloth bags. I was just hoping for an overwhelming lean in one direction that would help but I think the response equated out to be right down the middle. So for now, I think I'm going to go with a plain paper bag with handles. And later when I have time and additional finances for bags (the important item, fabric, is taking up a huge portion of the financing), perhaps stamp them or put a nice sticker label on the bag.
My store will be located in Greenville, ME on the shores of Moosehead Lake. And hopefully, by Christmas, I'll have an online store as well. One thing at a time...slow and easy will be the best way to go with this.
Thanks for the congratulations. I'll post some pictures on the website once we are all set up.
Marilyn
Just to clarify ... ME is the state of Maine, yes? Good luck with shop!
When are you going to be open for business, Marilyn? i'm in upstate NY and that would be a great weekend trip!!!
amy in CNY
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