~Old Bedsheets: the Re-possibilities~

They're hiding in the backs of closets,

the bottoms of drawers, and even

in storage bins in the garage and under beds.

Old bedsheets!

We keep them - just in case.

In case of what?

If you have a small store of these treasures,

here are just a few ways to bring them back

to usefulness.

*If you are a hunter or butcher your own meat,

you can fold them in half then sew the bottom and

up one side and you have a great game-bag.

*Cut or tear them into even squares and use as 

napkins, paper towels, or handkerchiefs.

(I really don't like using or paying for paper products.)

*Tear into strips and make braided rugs.

(I know, but if I didn't include it on the list,

someone would have yelled at me:)

*Cut small circles and use to top canned goods

when given as gifts - tie with jute or raffia.

*Make jelly bags (for juicing fruits)

*Use a strip as ribbon and tie up a present.

*Cut or tear into strips and make a rope.

You can use one strip and with only your fingers

make a long chain - like you are crochetting.

Start with a half hitch - like you are going to tie your shoes.

Then pull long strip through to make a new loop - if you pull 

from the wrong direction, it will just untie.  You'll get it:)

Reach through with thumb and index finger.

 Pull through.

Keep on going.

This would be about a 2" wide strip since I used

a 1" strip doubled over.

The diameter of the 'rope' is probably about 5/8".

If you want a heavier rope, just use wider strips.

*******

A couple other notes:

I prefer all cotton sheets.

They might not last quite as long, but neither are they 

made out of plastic (polyester.)

All cotton can be dyed other colors if you have a light color.

I didn't include quilt-making above, because if they are worn,

the integrity of the fabric might not be what I would 

want to use in a quilt that I put a lot of work into.

If the fabric is in good condition, by all means,

use it in a quilt.

Lastly, don't use them as shop rags - that's what 

old teeshirts are for.  Sheets have too many better options.

Old teeshirts aren't good for much else.

I'm sure there are other things,

but hopefully this gets your 'ideas sector' moving.

Until next time,

Nimble Fingers and Even Stitches