A typical plastic carryout bag weighs approximately 4-5 grams and can hold up to 17 pounds of product – nearly 2,000 times its own weight. While plastic grocery bags are no doubt durable, we recommend this project for smaller dogs (under 10 pounds). You will need to watch the 7-minute video to get a clear understanding of how to complete this project, as the weaving can get a bit complicated. While this one will take a bit of work, a leash made from recycled plastic bags is sure to stand out at the dog park.
What you’ll need: About 28 plastic grocery bags (get creative with the colors!), leash swivel (found at any pet store), glue, scissors, metal coat hanger folded to resemble a large needle
Step #1: Cut the bags down the sides to make the bag flat. Cut off the handles.
Step #2: Using a thin layer of glue, attach the bags end to end. Glue about 14 bags together to make the lead. You will need two of these.
Step #4: Fold the completed lead in half at the strongest point and thread through the swivel and tighten into a knot. Hook the leash onto a sturdy foundation to make weaving the knots more manageable. Watch the video for a demonstration of tying the square knots, as it gets a little confusing.
Step #5: Once you have completed the weave, fold the end of the leash to create a handle. Push the folded metal coat hanger through the middle of your weave and thread the opposite end through the weave (similar to threading a needle). Tie the ends in another square knot and push the remaining ends of bag into the leash.
It sounds tricky, but the video makes it a little easier.