Starting October 14th, the City of Pittsburgh will institute a bag ban. At Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh (CLP) we are prepared and looking to a more sustainable future, and the chance to show off our Library swag tote bags. Looking to learn more about the ecological impact of plastic bags? Check out this article from National Geographic. (And don’t forget you can access National Geographic magazine issues free with your library card on Libby if you want to learn more!)
If you’re feeling anxious about this news, or just need to ramp up your re-useable tote game, we got you covered. CLP offers free access to Creativebug where you can step it up. From simple bags made from recycled materials to elevated modern carry-alls there’s something for every skill level. If you’re looking to learn more about the environment and natural world we are stocked with resources for all ages. Check out the suggestions below:
[CLP x Contemporary Craft] Climate Awakening: Crafting A Sustainable Future – Adults
[CLP x Contemporary Craft] Climate Awakening: Crafting A Sustainable Future – Teen
[CLP x Contemporary Craft] Climate Awakening: Crafting A Sustainable Future – Children
In partnership with Contemporary Craft’s new exhibition ‘Climate Awakening: Crafting A Sustainable Future,’ CLP provided a collection of recent releases on the topic of climate change, which are available to browse at Contemporary Craft during the run of Climate Awakening. For more information on this exhibit, the website is linked at the end of these lists.
Creativebug – No Sew T-Shirt Tote
Use an old t-shirt to make a new bag! No sewing skills necessary.
Creativebug – Sew a Triangle Bag
This bag is big enough to fit all the “essentials” you picked up on your Target run.
Creativebug – Beginner Totes
Once you master this you can expand into all sorts of totes.
Creativebug – Statement Totes
Tote bags are the new bumper stickers. Learn how to make a statement in this tutorial.
Eco-chic Bags: Simple Sewing Projects to Make Tote Bags, Purses, Gift Bags, and More
Re-useable bags don’t just have to be for the grocery store! From gift bags to lunch boxes you can easily eliminate plastic bags in other areas of your life.
Making Bags – Supplies, Skills, Tips & Techniques to Sew Professional-looking Bags
Craft your own bags of all shapes and sizes. 5 projects included.
Bags & Purses – 16 Gorgeous Sewing Projects That Use Just Two Fat Quarters of Fabric
Learn how to sew your own bags and other accessories using scraps of fabric.
Wear, Repair, Repurpose: A Maker’s Guide to Mending and Upcycling Clothes
Why stop with plastic bags when you can upcycle or repurpose everything! Learn tips and tricks and start by mending and upcycling your favorite clothes with this eBook.
You can sign up for a free library card here.
If you are new to our eResources, check out these tutorial videos on how to get started.
If you’re looking for more book suggestions, we’re happy to recommend them to you! Use this Book Recommendation form to send us some information about what you like to read, and we’ll curate a list just for you.
If you have any additional questions, you can contact a librarian through Facebook, Instagram or X (Twitter). You can also call us at 412-622-3114 or email us at info@carnegielibrary.org.