Ever think about keeping a favorite snack bag to use later? Alliance Middle School student Bayje Neal, daughter of Destiny and Jason Neal, has found a creative way to upcycle the pliable plastic into zippered bags as a fundraiser for Keep Alliance Beautiful.
“First, we found the idea and thought it’d be cool to recycle more. I thought it’d be good to give back to the community,” she said.
Bayje starts with an empty bag of chips, candy or another snack keeping smaller bags the same size and dividing larger ones. She lines the bags with fabric, sews in a zipper and adds a layer of clear vinyl to the outside for durability. Each one takes from 20 minutes to an hour. “They’re water-resistant and you can pull out the liner to dry and clean,” Bayje noted.
This project draws on sewing skills Bayje began learning three years ago as the Covid Pandemic began (eventually she wants to make and alter clothes). She had not tried bags previously though spent time making scrunchies, chapstick holders, travel-sized pillow cases and grocery bag holders. Leftover fabric has been available to line the new bags, the majority of the zippers were donated leaving the vinyl as the only purchased material.
“My favorite has probably just been reusing, making something new,” Bayje said. “(The most challenging) has been the zipper – making sure it’s functional. I have to pair (bag) designs to the (lining) cloth.”
Assembling bags at the sewing machine has been an opportunity to spend time with her mom. Destiny explained, “It is really her – I keep her company, sit and talk. She had done the majority of it by herself.” Her dad and brother, Jett, have also been supportive.
Bayje sold her bags at the VFW craft fair recently with plans to set up at similar venues, as well as open a business page online.
The effort to support KAB’s mission fits into a busy schedule that includes AMS track, Quiz Bowl, Math Counts and being a distinction honor roll student. Bayje also helped local Girl Scouts with their Silver Award project – procuring a special needs Caroline Cart at Safeway.