4 Eco Friendly Waste Free Gifts to Give and Sew

If you are hoping to make some useful and meaningful gifts this holiday, this video is for you! Skillshare sponsored this video :) . Sign up via my link will get two FREE months of Skillshare Premium: skl.sh/virginialindsay5
I am trying to reduce waste at my house and I am sure you are too! These 4 ideas are here to help. As sewers, we have an advantage being able to make things that are useful and beautiful! These projects are also eco friendly and reduce household waste. YAY!
In this video, I mention sharing links to videos, recipes, template, and more :) . I put all that information together in a blog post for you! Visit gingercake.org/gingercake/201...
Requests granted! Some of you wanted those links here. I understand!
Here is the link to my book (this is an affiliate link so I get a % when you purchase) shrsl.com/1ygsc
Here is the link to the popcorn flavor recipes~ neighborfoodblog.com/2018/02/...
Here is the link to the make up remover/ face wash recipe~ colleenhobson.com/diy-coconut...
I use 1/2 a cup of PLAIN kernels in the popcorn bag :) . I microwave it for 2:30 seconds in my 1100 watt microwave.
The face wash template is 4'' round. You can find an easy printable template on my blog at the very bottom of the post. Here is the link to that blog post~ gingercake.org/gingercake/201...
To create the Reusable Microwave Popcorn Bag, you will need 2 pieces of cotton fabric that are 12'' x 20''.
TO sew 15 washable face wipes, you will need a piece of terry cloth fabric or chenille (i used a bar towel from the dollar store! Link to that towel in the bog post above!) that measures 18'' x 15''. You will also need a piece of cotton fabric of the same size. If you are buying fabric (and not a towel!) you could make 15 wipes with less waste using fabrics that are 12'' x 20''.
Here are some links to the products I use that you can purchase on amazon...
-My favorite seam ripper! amzn.to/2IIyd1K
-the clear plexiglass ruler! amzn.to/2Hq4YBj
-the self healing mat with grid! amzn.to/2Ihj5MZ
-Olfa Rotary Cuter! amzn.to/2tGtWGa
-a similar sewing machine to the one I have (and LOVE) amzn.to/2H4cQK1
-a machine I would recommend to beginners amzn.to/2I3mmwg
Visit my PDF Sewing pattern shop for more fun, cute, original and cute projects at www.gingercake.bigcartel.com
Visit my Blog for more information about me and to see my NINE years of sewing adventures :) www.gingercake.org

[@billiwickey]

Thanks for the inspiration! I taught three kids (7, 9, 11) how to make different variations of the face cloths. The two younger kids made squares. The 7 year-old sewed them wrong sides together then used pinking shears to trim the seam allowance. Her parents were really impressed. The 9 year-old sewed right sides together, turned them hand sewed some of them closed so he could watch a video while sewing like Grandma. The 11 year-old did circles, and took FOREVER because she's a perfectionist which isn't necessarily bad but it's not helpful if you have one sewing machine and 3 kids. Next week, we're starting placemats amd napkins cuz it's all about straight lines and a little embroidery for monograms.

[@peggydid]

Thank you so much for sharing these lovely gift ideas with us, Virginia!

[@sallystults7111]

I’ve been wanting to make the face scrubbie then I found them on line and bought them. But maybe I could make them for my friends.what a great idea. Thank you.

[@Dianah1952]

Thank you for your great ideas. I love you scissors and that pretty fabric you used for your circles. Blessings to you!

[@keepup8868]

I love these! My family will love all of these ideas.

[@MaryChrapliwy]

Love the makeup wipes - I'll make mine a little larger. Thanks for sharing

[@denisem8852]

Thank you for sharing these small sewing ideas. Great to do while we are all being social-isloting!

[@Coastalanne54]

Some great ideas my 9 year old granddaughter can make with me for her older brother and sister for Christmas !

[@pjo4622]

I really appreciate how - at the beginning of the video - you introduce each item your going to make. Many vloggers leave their viewers in suspense about what will be included. Thank you.

[@mardellnorris-beaty8908]

I absolutely LOVE your popcorn bags. I never really was a fan of popcorn, thought it smelled better than it tasted. Now I eat it almost everyday with this cute and practical bag. Thank you so much.

[@michelletrevethan9945]

Thank you for this. I have been using the makeup pads that someone else made. But I am going to have a go at making my own xx

[@tranquilityyogapilates2946]

Great eco idea for the eye makeup remover wipes. Doing some for myself

[@christinemann6027]

I LOVE the cotton rounds idea! I see a whole bunch being gifted this Christmas!

[@b.j.lilley8662]

Your videos are all fantastic! I just made a quick popcorn bag for a birthday gift and included a recipe card and kernals inside. I'm so excited to try it out next movie night! Thank you :)

[@jamiebaronet9949]

I have made several sets of your napkins. A few months ago I shared that video with a friend and she made me a set of Christmas napkins as a gift. Love your tutorials.

[@gingercakesews]

That is so great Jamie! I need to make myself a Christmas set 😊

[@gabriellagonda1544]

Virginia, thanks for the video. The reusable popcorn bag is absolutely brilliant. My son loves popcorns, he would live on them if I'd let him to. I hate the waste it creates, so alredy bought corn seeds to pop. With this bag he'll be able to do it himself, and will be much healtier as we can controll what to use for seasoning.

[@carolbrunn7807]

Thank you for sharing! What a great time with not being able to go anywhere to use up our scraps! My adult daughter who lives with us is so happy to find the popcorn bag.

[@margaretswann6805]

Thank you for doing this video. I like the way you teach. I will definitely be making all the items you shared.

[@aliceveenema]

Great ideas! I've made your grocery bags, and plenty of napkins before. I love the idea of using vintage sheets! I have a gorgeous sheet I've been hanging onto because of the rich colours, but it's too small for any bed of ours and has been patched. I've never seen the popcorn bags before--what a great idea! I have a few nephews and nieces who I think will appreciate them!

[@melaniejackson492]

Thank you. Can't wait to make these as stocking stuffers.

[@themirrorimagestitcher]

You really have some great ideas 💡 Thanks for sharing!

[@christinea52]

Imade the popcorn bags for Christmas gifts and love them! Thanks for sharing your talents.

[@alejandrabarrios7072]

Very pretty... ❤ I love it...thank you so much for sharing it...

[@idareandevers9211]

Virginia I am glad I ran upon you this morning I love the popcorn bag and face cleaner will be sewing both. Thanks

[@MisKulit31]

My channel is about sewing but im just a beginner,i really love people who sew something amazing or if i make it myself i have struggle a lot,nice works,

[@elizabethvallely4044]

Enjoy your channel love the pop corn bag and the washable face cleaners well it all lol thank you for sharing!!! Subscribed to your channel Liz.

[@veecamp3373]

Love your ideas . Thankyou so much.

[@Spokenfan]

Great ideas 👍 these would all make great gifts 🎁 I’m definitely making these for our family. The makeup remover rounds are nice and it’s so smart to make them round because they are much faster since there are no corners to turn and push out. Also if you mark you fabric carefully there is hardly any waste 👍. Thank you for sharing your wonderful ideas 💡👏👍🧵

[@radhikanbabu3128]

Very cute

[@MegaBpop]

Great idea for the make up remover pads.

[@knitknack2285]

Love the popcorn bags, I really like the idea of reusable face scrubbies. I’ve got two girls and a teenage boy that I think would love them. Going over to buy your book now. Thanks

[@heathenTovea]

I make mine square and from flannel. But i'm now going to try the different fabric. I made vintage napkins out of a vintage tablecloth for my daughter for christmas I hope she likes them they are one of a kind like she is.

[@peggydid]

Sounds absolutely lovely, Barbie!

[@mpconnoisseur]

Barbie Mithun , square would be less wasteful and easier to do en masse.

[@dorothygriffiths6626]

Hi Virginia it is always such a treat to see your channel pop up in my notifications, you are my favourite vlogger. I love all your ideas, this year I am trying hard to be more aware of our environment. I am currently making little bags from my stash to put gifts in rather than use wrapping paper. I love the make up pads and have 3 granddaughters aged 27, 21 and 12 so these will be perfect for them. The shopping bags will be perfect for my friends as we do a lot of shopping together 😀😀. I hadn’t thought of serviettes and really love your fabric ones, as a family we have always used paper ones but yours are just beautiful. Virginia I hope we will see more of you, you really are an inspiring and generous teacher. Sending you all my love as always. Dorothy. U.K. xxxxxxxxxx 🙋🏻😘🌟❤️

[@gingercakesews]

Dorothy! You are so kind to me. I am so glad you liked the video. I love hearing from you having your support. 😊😊😊😍

[@cordypops2839]

I love the popcorn bag thank you!

[@priscilasanchez9235]

Thank you so much !!!! Great explanation eco friendly and perfect for the holidays !!! And well being on a budget !!! Ha

[@intothesticks2741]

I’m dieting with slimming world and pop corn is a free treat. This craft idea just made me so happy. Your tutorial was so easy to follow. I’m going to make a load for my friends. Thank you.

[@kayphelan2995]

Great Idea, I am going to try making these.

[@sondravaxmonsky7047]

Thank you for your ideas. I had bought your book about 2 years ago and love it. Nice to see your videos and the Popcorn Bag. I have some extra material I need to use up. Been making masks to donate. Hoping this Covid-19 sickness goes away soon.

[@ssoozee]

I swear, I just love you, Virginia Lindsay! I’m giving napkins, face wipes and popcorn bags to all my friends this year. I’ve been sewing like crazy. I own both of your Sewing to Sell books, and though I use them only for all of your fun projects, you never know! Thank you for your hard work and for sharing your beautiful and doable creations. I’m the Queen of Christmas this year! 💖

[@gingercakesews]

AW! You are so sweet! I am so happy that you are making these things!

[@interacdadlitours7826]

I just signed into skill share. Thank you so much for sharing the link.

[@janzitterkopf1630]

This was a great video! Thank you for sharing and be so gracious!

[@monicapoole8900]

Great job with your gift idea. Thanks for sharing

[@joannasfeelingcrafty]

Awesome and very thoughtful gift ideas. Thank you for your effort put in making this video! Ps.: cute fabric choices 😘

[@gingercakesews]

Thank you! I just got these fat quarters from ... ALDI! do you have one close?

[@hel2on4wheels]

Thank you, you could use an upturned glass or cup to draw round.

[@cwfan2]

I bought the Kindle version of your book Sewing to Sell. I stayed up all night reading it. I think it's going to become one of my fav "go-to" books.

[@dancinginabundance]

I took mine to Kinko's and had the spine removed, punched and bound - I love that book!

[@sylviafielding6085]

@@dancinginabundance l

[@attagurl4033]

SUPER HAPPY your videos/channel found me! I'm super stoked to get sewing your ideas! Thank you for being here! Upstate NY beginner : )

[@maryhogue2844]

I like these kinds of videos. Thank you great ideas.

[@happylemonheads]

Thanks for sharing these great project ideas, I now know what I am making for my daughter for Christmas. All three projects I know she will cherish.

[@gingercakesews]

You are so welcome!

[@SimplyBeautiful516]

These are great ideas! I just subscribed. Thank you!

[@vooni4969]

This video was great!! Thx sm for the ideas I cant wait to make some of these for friends out of old fabrics!!

[@gingertea5006]

L'm going to make some of those makeup remover pads - great idea for stocking stuffers

[@ssoozee]

I just love you! 💖

[@theresav1679]

Love these! I'm going to see if my 13yo wants to make some of the makeup scrubbies so she can gift them to friends for the holiday.

[@gingercakesews]

Perfect! I think my 13 wants to do the same!

[@JaimeDornanLady]

You can also get a washable plastic round container at the dollar store, fill it full of liquid makeup remover if choice, & add the sponges! Then everything ya eco-friendly-washable & refillable container, washable sponges! You can even make your own printable labels and put on the container. Such a thoughtful, easy, sweet gift to make!

[@consuelomaslanka2194]

Jaime Dornan Lady is it okay to leave the makeup wipes submerged in the makeup remover? Or is it better to just add it to the wipe as needed?

[@jessicagiangreco7104]

The popcorn bag is genius! I am also trying to reduce waste in my home. We have about 4dozen everyday napkins and cleaning cloths for our kitchen We have 9 people in our family and just using those has reduced our paper waste (and grocery budget) a great deal! I think my three teenage daughters would love the makeup wipes, too! Thanks for adding the link to the makeup remover, I am going to try it! #newsubscriber

[@annapower1833]

Great video! Would love to see more videos with easy sewing projects for eco friendly items!!

[@gingercakesews]

I am hoping to make more soon Anna!

[@sarabenvenuti2582]

I have just discovered diy make up pads... 3 years later...!!! better than never... and your tutorial il really easy and well done.. I will surely try to make some! I love tutorials about recycling cloths (scraps) , eco friendly gifts etc, thank you! ciao from Italy Sara

[@OHlookSHINYthing]

That popcorn envelope is the same way I make spud sacks - very handy!

[@harrisjh87]

I made the reusable popcorn bag and it came out so nicely! Thank you.

[@gabriellagonda1544]

How do you make the popcorn in them? Do you add anything salt or oil before putting them in the microwawe? How do you flavour them afterwards?

[@harrisjh87]

Gabriella Gonda I put the popcorn in the bag for 2 minutes. I season the popcorn in a bowl with salt & butter, to taste. I personally like seasoning afterwards because it keeps the bag clean.

[@gabriellagonda1544]

@@harrisjh87 thanks for the tips!

[@jaybirdpalau]

Thank you for sharing our DIY Coconut Oil Makeup Remover Recipe! Your channel is amazing!😍

[@gingercakesews]

You are welcome! It works great 😉

[@MegaBreyergirl]

Love all these!

[@linneawestberg6435]

ive made car trashcans for some loved ones that has a strap to go around the gearshift and keep it in arms reach:) made two several years ago and two recently, it was fun altering the pattern to be prettier and more efficient this time:)

[@deannesherriff3247]

How I envy your table space!

[@dianarobertson9407]

Great ideas. Thank you. I'm going to make the face cloths and gift them in a net bag for washing with a beautiful bow. Thank you again.

[@chhayapanchal7591]

I liked the popcorn bag...too good

[@sarahdierflinger1387]

I am just learning to sew, and facing Christmas with almost no money. I am excited about making the face scrubbies and napkins! Now if I could come up with an easy sewing gift for teenage boys.

[@gingercakesews]

That is a challenge!

[@Angie_978]

You could make a canvas shower kit/dopp bag. Would possibly come in handy for traveling for the holidays, too. It's nice to have a grown up place to put their toothbrush, soap, razor, etc.

[@TheAmiMom]

Oh my the mass produced face wipe method is genius!!!

[@notime7574]

So happy to see you making more videos 😀 I have made your vintage bread roll holder a few years back.

[@gingercakesews]

I'm so glad you are back! That bread roll holder is still one of my favorite projects 😊

[@notime7574]

@@gingercakesews I gave them as gift one year. Now I just need to make me one. I used the glass plate from my microwave to make the circle. 😁

[@Quilt4Joy]

Love this idea. I wish you held it up for us to see finished product.

[@KnitLoveHK]

Love the video Thanks for sharing

[@bobbiedurham5010]

Great ideas! (Volume went down suddenly.) Remover pads: I will use the Terry cloth/bar towel on both sides. Also will try some with soft innards to see how I like that. There's so many items we could make to reduce waste and drain on our budgets. Then there are the landfills. Wish we did more recycling here. I imagine they wash well. Reusable even if some lipstick stain remains...at least it's clean.

[@elegancefashionhouseboutiq4846]

Love ur idea....thanks for sharing👍...liked & subscribed🌷

[@margaretklein8753]

So cute thank you!!!

[@susanpudwill9721]

Enjoyed video, thanks.

[@susanr4967]

I love the popcorn bag.

[@CrochetwithClare]

Love the video! Do you have a tutorial for your pin cushion ?

[@petrodiedericks6591]

Love this tutorial. Can I use soft towelling instead of chenille?

[@grandmasheeshee9579]

Always enjoy you're videos. Broke my arm doing a covid 19 haircut, so haven't been able to sew anything for 2 1/2 weeks. It's driving me crazy.

[@katherineanderson8570]

The makeup wipes are brilliant! Thanks. You could also make them square and reduce wastage.

[@gingercakesews]

That's true! Its kinda nice not dealing with corners though 😉

[@katherineanderson8570]

@@gingercakesews I was thinking of using a small stitch length wrong sides together, not needing to turn them out and pinking the edges. Now, off to the dollar store to find a bar towel! I'll let you know if that works.

[@SimplyBeautiful516]

Katherine Anderson Oh that sounds like it would work!

[@JaimeDornanLady]

LOVE the popcorn bags! Could you box the corners of the bottom so that you could eat out of the bag w/it standing up after the popcorn is popped?

[@marysmith2310]

Jaime Dornan Lady I boxed the bottom at 1 1/2 inches. They stand up beautifully. I’ve just finished my 10th bag. I’m making them for Christmas gifts.

[@irisnaderi358]

thank you for all of these great ideas. I have made the makeup remover pads and I add a short ribbon loop so they can be hung to dry before throwing them in a lingerie bag or the hamper for washing later.

[@SimplyBeautiful516]

Iris Naderi Oh that’s a terrific idea!

[@gingercakesews]

Very smart! Thanks for the tip!

[@michaelandannlong2004]

Lynnette Jennings junkjournal

[@Anxiousbookdragon]

Wow! I was gonna make mine the same way. 🙂

[@tiiug.9973]

Love that idea, and I will do the same on mine. tfs.

[@EasyToSew]

Great gift ideas. Thanks for sharing :)

[@shevahauser1780]

Ya they are! Iv seen the popcorn bag done with beeswax or plastic covering put on the fabric, so can be used as sandwich or lunch bags . And they become washable.

[@SouthpawPatty]

I wasn't paying attention when this video automatically showed up. I had the sound off. When I first saw it I thought you were making nursing pads. LOL! Now I need to watch the whole thing. Those might be a great gift to make for a new mom who is breast feeding. Thank you!

[@suides4810]

Patty VanDeWalker oh thats right what a good idea

[@gingercakesews]

That would be perfect! Great idea.

[@Tybuner]

Oooh yes!

[@jessicagiangreco7104]

You could easily make those with the same pattern, using flannel with a terry cloth liner between the flannel and print. So sweet!

[@JaimeDornanLady]

Jessica Giangreco That would be a great gift for a new mom or for a baby shower gift!

[@darthdebby]

I love these ideas! They are so doable.

[@donsheerman4239]

Great ideas thanks so much. I know how busy you must be with 4 kids, but I would love to see more of you and your many projects. God bless you and yours this Thanks giving and Christmas. We all have much to be thankful for. Carol .

[@lynnsjourney8198]

Love it

[@carolrobinson9607]

Nice and easy!

[@aida5112]

👍 I really appreciate your tutorial. You are one of those people who make me feel that my sewing is ok n good. Gave me a lot of confidence. Thank you so much.

[@gingercakesews]

That is exactly what I want to hear! Sewing doesn't need to be perfect! It's just fun to try things. Thanks for the comment 😊

[@orangecorner0826]

very nice and affordable

[@131dyana]

Thank you very much.

[@3Windles]

Just found your channel and love your ideas 😊 new subscriber x

[@julierbrtsn60]

With that straight piece of waste of both - maybe a headband to keep hair off face for cleansing?

[@carolyncarter-nash6757]

Love these ideas. May I ask what size are the circles? I am excited to get making all these ideas for Christmas presents this year. Thank you. 🙏🏻💜🥰

[@bakerwannabe4435]

Thank you for this information. You present information in a great manner. I did not see the link to Skillshare. Is it still available?

[@maryhornbostel6959]

I think I would place two folded pieces of fabric, folds touching, in the center of the row of pads then sew complete circles. After cutting along sewing lines, a quick flip through the folded edges makes a nice finish. The folded fabric could make a pocket for fingers as you cleanse face.

[@beckytheobsessedstitcher1170]

I love these ideas! I have made face wipes for washing but not these great makeup removers. You mentioned a favorite recipe for remover. If you have that handy would you mind sharing that link?

[@gingercakesews]

Hi! Here is one that I think will be great colleenhobson.com/diy-coconut-oil-makeup-remover/

[@beckytheobsessedstitcher1170]

Virginia Lindsay thank you so much. Interesting read by the author as well as a great recipe. I appreciate your taking the time to reply.

[@aliceschrag1914]

Obsessed Stitcher pp

[@salliebeard1899]

I believe the popcorn bag is the same as a potato bag for the microwave.

[@sherryturner4745]

TFS‼️

[@gingercakesews]

YW! I had to Google TFS 😂

[@KJSew]

Question... could you sew and pink the edges, which would eliminate turning. Believe I will try it.😌

[@rubyc.4311]

Are the fabrics you used for the snack bag food safe? I’ve seen other ppl used pul or other ones that are food safe. Ty

[@trailmomma]

I am new to sewing and have been loving your channel and ideas. Thank you! I made the popcorn bag and was planning to make more for teacher gifts. Upon first use, the timing was too long for my microwave (my bad) but the bag worked, just burned popcorn. The second time I tried it (a few days later), the bag caught fire! I used the "popcorn" button on my microwave. The fabric "says" 100% .. the thread I used was gutermann? Could there be a reason for this? Just curious. I was excited to make presents but I don't want anyone's house to catch fire LOL. Thank you! Love your explanation for things!

[@trailmomma]

I did a quick search and it appears the thread may have been the cause. The kind we used is polyester I think.

[@lindamcclellan8434]

Thanks for showing the popcorn maker after being made.

[@usarmymedic1334]

I make those. I also make reusable coffee and tea filters out if muslin