upcycled bike bags

repurposed, recycled bags are easily converted to add one-of-a-kind bike style

[upcycledbikebags]

Turn Sling Bags into Panniers!

Did you know that sling bags can make awesome, low cost, Dutch-style panniers? They come in a myriad of colors and have straps and buckles that can be refashioned into attachments to secure bag to frame and/or rack. Here’s one way to do it, but I’m sure you can come up with other ideas.

https://anniebikes.blogspot.com/2019/12/diy-inexpensive-mini-panniers-for-my.html

[upcycledbikebags]

Revamp a Messenger Bag

It’s easy to restyle a messenger bag by hand-stitching fabric onto the flap. In addition, iron on a patch on the reverse side for more pizzazz. Attach to bike with simple hook and loop closures. 

For more details, visit: https://anniebikes.blogspot.com/2018/02/revamping-vermont-vagabond-mini.html

[upcycledbikebags]

Retrofit a Tech Wallet into a Versatile Handle Bar Bag

Create your own specialized solution to fit a handle bar bag to uniquely proportioned bars.

https://anniebikes.blogspot.com/2017/08/retrofit-tech-wallet-into-handlebar-bag.html

[upcycledbikebags]

Colorful Pencil Case Makes a Stylish Toolbag

The possibilities are endless. Find a color and style you like. Search your local office supply store. Check clearance aisles/tables or sale sections. Treasures abound.

https://anniebikes.blogspot.com/2017/07/a-pencil-case-makes-stylish-tool-bag.html

[upcycledbikebags]

Come Along for the Ride - Bike Bag Construction, Step #1

If you ride a bike and need an inexpensive way to carry a few items...

Follow along as I create the next bike bag. From concept to fabric choice to finalizing the design, join me in this inventive process. I'll take it one step at a time, allowing ideas to take hold so this bag will be truly unique.

Low Cost, Functional, Simple Conversion. First and foremost, it must be inexpensive. 2. it must be practical. And 3. attaching bag to bicycle should be easy. By choosing the right bag for your taste, the end product can also be fashionable. That's the bonus for do-it-yourselfers, unless you'd rather purchase from my bags for sale. (Really, I won't tell anyone!)

The tutorial will close with the upcycled bag's maiden voyage. We'll clip it to handlebars or rear bike rack. Pedal along. Visit a store. Toss the bag over a shoulder. Go inside, Buy a few things. Put them in the bag then reattach it to the bike. In short, we'll put this creation through it's paces.

Ready to begin?

Step 1 - Have an Overall Plan

Envision the Possibilities. The handbag in the above photo cost 2.00 at a local re-use store. I cleaned it by hand. I loved the interior lining, made of cotton, the extra pocket, and the ability to zip all contents closed. Plus, the leatherette handles lend themselves towards folding inside the bag for a danger-free bike ride (wouldn't want straps tangled in the spokes or gears). Circular rings could also double as contact point for adding straps to attach to the bike. However, the bag did not clean up well. The lining remains dingy.

So, I will replace the lining, but not the long zipper. It's too difficult to re-sew through the exterior rattan-like material. No matter. I'll sew new fabric to zipper material, maybe fold over material as cuff along upper edge. Or not. I'm confident the solution will reveal itself as I continue.

Layout color choices to see what you like. I like both patterns, though I'm leaning towards the red & green one in the second photo. The splash of brown compliments the handles. 

The tentative plan is to replace lining. Add one interior pocket. Avoid using zippers; they only complicate the construction. Play around with nylon webbing or used inner tubes, backed with matching fabric (won't that look cool?) for attachments to bike. I have black and silver closures in my goodie collection. Explore alternative for holding contents inside bag. Possibly one strap will do.

Until next time, remember, upcycled bike bags rock!

[upcycledbikebags]

A Creative Bike Bag is Perfect for Airline Travel

The secret to traveling with a bike.

Picture this: You step off a plane with a designer-like floral handbag slung over your shoulder. You have a smug smile because your bag is unique, created from a messenger bag. You collect your sole check-in bag: a folding bicycle. In a few minutes the bike is set up, storage sack strapped onto rear rack,

Tuck shoulder strap inside floral bag -- the same satchel that had, moments before, doubled as carry-on luggage, stashed in the overhead compartment on the plane. Clip onto handlebars and go.

You are pleased with yourself. You've packed light. Freedom and exercise awaits -- all necessities stowed in hip, versatile bike bag that doubles as minimal luggage -- all you really need. And, if you get tired there's an easy solution. Call a cab. Fold bike. Driver stores bicycle in trunk. Relax in taxi. No one's the wiser.

[upcycledbikebags]

Garage Sale Season is Just Around the Corner.

With temperatures climbing into the 50s and 60'sF in northern Vermont, I am excited about the prospect of tootling around on my bike, stopping at sales. It's true that one person's trash is another's treasure -- all the more reason to search for bags that could be future bike bags. Deals abound!

My favorite type of sales are run by older people who've meticulously labeled items, all displayed on tables. I generally scan for anything large then hone in on the little stuff. It takes patience to sift through what might be usable for bicycle bag conversion, but with experience, I've come up with a few tips.

Purses and backpacks are numerous. Don't be afraid to use buckles from one item with the notion of attaching it to another bag.

Laptop bags are prime for bike bag conversion. With their built in padding and handles, these bags are cushiony and strong.  Laptop bags are also plentiful at sales. Remember, you can always apply the messenger bag technique to cover up an intrusive logo (common on laptop bags).

Small cosmetic bags or wrist-let purses are perfect for carrying essentials. These lightweight satchels are easy to attach to the handlebars with the addition of Velcro.

Belts are often cheap. I like utilizing leather belts for strapping bike bags to handlebar or rack. They're strong. You'll probably never find two of the same style, but that will make your bag unique! 

Inspect items closely. Try zippers, buckles, or straps. Assess a bag for washability (if it matters to you). And remember, if you suspect the the asking price is too high, or it's the difference between buying the item or not, it never hurts to ask the seller if they'll accept a lower offer.

[upcycledbikebags]

"Free is a Very Good Price"

We all love getting something for free.

That's the idea behind a Northwest furniture company's slogan "Free is a Very Good Price"—a phrase I've never forgotten, especially when it comes to recycling and re-using abundant—and often free—bags or backpacks into smart, one-of-a-kind carriers for your bike.

The other day I found a leather purse in a "free" box next to the sidewalk. Really!

Spend less time creating and more time on your bicycle. Revisit your closet, ask a neighbor, a friend, or family member. Perhaps they have a bag they'll gladly give away. Follow my construction ideas and tips, and in an hour or two (or quite possibly less!) you'll be rolling down the road on your bicycle with a smart upcycled pannier or handlebar bag. 

What have you got to lose?

*photo credit: Huffington Post

[upcycledbikebags]

Bike Bags from Garden Tool Bags

Garden tool bags make durable, strong panniers. The have pockets galore to organize your purchases and lend themselves to easy conversion and decoration.

Ad a flap, like the garden bag for sale (pictured below), and/or colorful coordinating fabric along rim. Another option: sew two button holes one inch below top edge, thread and secure two tubes of fabric, then tie a bow, which serves to latch sides together while in transit. Imagine the lovely and practical image of this pannier on your bike as you pedal along!

(*Artistic license used to "create" this bag. I'm on the lookout for a small -sized garden bag with this idea in mind.)

*Top two images from Gardener's Supply and Sow Swell

[upcycledbikebags]

Upcycled Bike Bags on Facebook

Prefer to get your dose of Upcycled Bike Bags on Facebook? Follow along for ideas to get those creative juices flowing. I'll also post new bags for sale on this venue so you won't need to check back here as often. That way, you won't miss a thing.

[upcycledbikebags]

Do you plan to make bike bags from those gorgeous "fabrics that inspire"? When will those be for sale?

I intend to line bags with these fabrics. Aren't they fabulous colors? I don't know when new bags will be for sale, This website was created for a marketing class, so I am currently unable to spend my free time making the bags...Catch 22, huh? But, I also intend to squeeze in a bag making tutorial in the next month on this site, so you'll be seeing the fabric in upcoming posts.

[upcycledbikebags]

Upcycled Bike Bags Goes Pinteresting

Get inspired.

Follow us on Pinterest for more do-it-yourself ideas. Look at what other people have created. Upcycling rocks!

[upcycledbikebags]

Upcycle Messenger Bags into Panniers

I'm liking this idea! What a perfect addition to a black messenger bag or those laptop cases that seem to breed like flies, cluttering your closet.

Cover up unsightly graphics that accompany free cases—unless of course it's your company you'd like to advertise.

And for guys, how about a suitable non-girlie fabric?

Print & Snip this tutorial and have some fun. Don't forget to reference Bag Attachment Ideas for smart and easy securing to rack.

*Image courtesy of Dilly Foxtrot.

[upcycledbikebags]

Inspiration: 3 Simple Bag Attachment Ideas

Now that you've identified what style of bike bag you wish to create, the next step is figuring out how to secure it to your bicycle.

Velcro or Hook & Loop System

Velcro can be the easiest solution, depending on sewing ability and fabric thickness. Velcro also comes in a variety of colors. You have the option of Velcro blending in with the bag, like the above photo. Double stitch, if possible, and sew ends to prevent fraying. For the more ambitious, how about backing the Velcro with pretty fabric?

Tip: Velcro is stronger than you think, but consider using it on bags intended  for hauling lightweight items. In this instance, I have used the bag while on a bike tour to hold valuables, easily removing it from the handlebar where it then becomes my purse.

Buckle System

While a bit more difficult to remove from a bicycle, leather straps and buckles provide a stronger alternative to Velcro. I think they add a certain amount of class, matching the leather handles in the above photo. Similarly, nylon webbing could replace leather belt. Or try cat or dog collars—a cheap find at a dollar store.

I sewed button holes and threaded straps. Another alternative: sew or rivet two horizontal rectangles of material on bag exterior, then feed through straps.

Tip: Cut leather longer than you may need. It's easy to trim it after, once you're sure of the length. Punch a few holes. Sometimes I attach it loosely to the handlebar, depending on the amount of things I'm carrying.

Hook & D-ring System

What I love about this solution is the quick connect and removal system. It has the added benefit of not snagging on clothing. Position the strap and hook & D-ring attachment correctly—appropriate to your bicycle—and you can avoid noisy jingling and/or marring of the frame or handlebar. This is also a bomb-proof solution, suitable for carrying heavy items.

And why not take this idea one step further? Next on my list is to reuse inner tubes in place of nylon webbing, using colorful stitching.

Tip:  Some purses already come with metal rings—a built-in place to attach hook & D-ring. You might search for these bags at a reuse store.

In conclusion

By using the above methods it's inexpensive and easy to up-cycle or recycle almost any bag or satchel into a carryall, exclusive to your bicycle.

I love others' ideas too. Or, if you need help, just ask.

Not into doing it yourself? No problem. Take a gander at my  bags for sale.

____________________________

*last photo, borrowed from PoCampo

[upcycledbikebags]

Fabric that inspires. Fabric that WOWs and transforms a bike bag into something truly special.

[upcycledbikebags]

Important Things to Know When Upcycling/Recycling Bag to Fit Your Bicycle

Whether you purchase one of my upcycled bike bags or wish to create your own one of a kind handlebar bag or pannier, there are two things to consider that will affect your choice of existing material and attachment system.

1. How Do You Plan to Use Your Stylish Bike Bag?

Do you want a purse that doubles as handlebar bag, which will hold a few lightweight items, or do you need a carrying system for groceries, pet food, plants, or laptop? Would you like to carry the bag by short tote bag-sized handles or do you require a should strap? Because there are as many interesting solutions as clouds in the sky, it's best to first evaluate how you plan to use a new bicycle bag.

2. Measure Bicycle Dimensions to Determine Unique Bag Fit.

Once the purpose is determined, then go ahead and review your bicycle. Do you have an existing front or rear rack? If you have one, all the better, especially for attaching a sturdy bag for heavy stuff. However, if you don't, there are alternatives, like suspending a strong bag from the handlebars with equally secure straps. So, get out the yardstick or ruler. If you desire a front bag, measure from handlebar to top of tire, Take into account any cables and left or right bar swing. A too heavy front bag may affect steering.

Or, if you prefer carrying a gallon of milk, utilize the rear rack position. Turn pedal to 3 o'clock to account for any heel strike and back off another couple inches. Measure and identify what style would best work. With a few simple measurements you'll have a better idea of fit and whether front or rear baggage makes the most sense. 

By accounting for intended use, existing racks, and predetermined dimensions, you'll know what to explore for an inexpensive solution for turning your bike into a stylish commuter.

[upcycledbikebags]

Enjoy this short video, using recycled 5-gallon buckets as panniers. They're resourceful, sturdy, and clever. They're not exactly a lightweight solution like my bags, but perfect for an e-bike.