Using a plastic bag from my local grocery store as a pattern, I decided to make my own sturdy, reusable, washable, and cute shopping bags. They are fully lined. The fabric handles do not dig into my hands like those nasty plastic bags did, even when I’m carrying 2 gallons of milk—in ONE bag! I can wash the bags again and again, unlike most of the reusable bags sold in grocery stores. I liked my bags so much, I thought I’d make a few for friends and family. They liked them so much, they talked me into making some to sell!

The outside fabrics of this trio are 1-inch gingham in sunny yellow, spring green, and vibrant peach (coral? orange?). The lining is the same for all 3: 1/4-inch gingham in sky blue. Each bag folds into its outer pocket, keeping it small and tidy for storage between uses. There is an inner pocket (7 ½ x 5 in.) in each bag for a shopping list, coupons, coin purse, keys, cell phone—whatever goes shopping with you.

handles measure 7 in.
cargo area:
height ~ 14 in.
width ~ 14 3/4 in. (opens out to 19 in.)