[SustainableTompkins] MEDIA RELEASE: Reusable Bag Sew-in March 15 and 16

[Wendy Skinner]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 9, 2008
Contact: Wendy Skinner, SewGreen, ws at twcny.rr.com, 607-277-7611

Community Sew-in to Make Reusable Bags

SewGreen, an Ithaca-based group that promotes reuse and sustainability in sewing, is holding a ten-hour community sew-in next weekend. SewGreen has been challenged to make 1,200 reusable tote bags for Energy Independent Caroline. A bag containing a free compact fluorescent light bulb and information on sustainable living will be distributed in mid-April to every household in the town of Caroline, NY.

"We have pledges for about 200 bags so far, but we need more help to meet the quota," said SewGreen coordinator Wendy Skinner. The distribution project is funded by a grant originated by Cornell University student Shawn Lindabury. Cornell students will team with Caroline residents to deliver the bags.

SewGreen has until the end of March to make the bags. The bag design is posted on the group's website, www.sew-green.org and Skinner reports that sewing enthusiasts around the region have started making bags at home. The local Shopping Bag Action Group, which advocates an end to disposable bags, is lending assistance, and Skinner hopes that other groups will organize their own sew-ins. 

"The only rule is that the bags must be made from reused or existing materials," said Skinner. Pre-cut kits made from donated fabric are available for pick-up, as well. 

Anyone who sews is invited to participate in the sew-in, which will be held at the SewGreen Studio at Tuff Soul, 516 West State Street, Ithaca. The event will run from noon to 6 pm Saturday, March 15, and noon to 4 pm Sunday, March 16. Sewing machines and all materials will be provided. Pre-registration for a sewing shift is requested. Contact Skinner at coord at sew-green.org or 607-277-7611.

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