Where to Find Handbags Made from Unique, Recycled Materials

No woman wants a boring handbag. A handbag isn't meant to just carry items in it, it is also meant to accessorize an outfit, be art you carry on your arm, and be a conversation starter. People are looking for more ways to make their every day garbage useful by turning it into unique items Here are some unique, recycled materials that were turned into new handbags.

Vintage Automotive Fabrics

Kim White handbags are made from the never used vintage textiles intended for American cars. Each handbag is tagged with the make and year of the fabric. There are various shapes, colors and styles of handbags sold through the site. This electric blue stripe small shoulder bag is made from the fabric intended for a 1978 Ford Mustang. It is lined with black velvet and has a magnetic snap closure. The bag is currently $95.

Tires

Refinding carries purses made from used tires. The tired treads are cut and screwed to new neoprene rubber. The strap is made from inner tube and the purse has a snap closure. It measures 5 1/2" x 8" x 2 1/2" and weighs one pound. The price is currently $85.00.

Salvaged Traffic Signs

Uncommon Goods carries purses made by Tripp Gregson that are made from legally salvaged traffic signs. They have a heavy ball chain strap and strong vinyl sides. Each bag has a white side and a red side. Each purse is currently $160.00.

Recycled Soda Bottle Labels

Ecoist has a purse available that is made from the repurposed soda bottle labels. They currently carry four styles of these bags, all part of the Coca-Cola collection . The purses includes a detachable wristlet band and a zip top. Each bag is currently $38.00 and measures 8L x 3.5H x 1.5W (inches).

Gum Wrappers

With all the types of gum wrappers that are out, purses can be a various amount of colors from silver to neon multi-colored. Ecoist carries handbags made from repurposed candy wrappers. Each bag is water resistant and has a detachable wristlet strap. It closes through a zip closure on the top. Each bag measures 8L x 3.5H x 1.5W and is currently $38.00.

Children's Books

Repurposed4You.com makes purses made from repurposed children's books. The purses are stitched with clear vinyl to protect it from the weather, and the inside of the bag is cotton lining. Each bag is made from a different children's book. The measurements of the larger purse are 12"W x 10"H. A smaller version is available. This purse is currently $78.00.

Soda Pop Tops

Novica, in association with National Geographic, carries a purse made of pop tops from soda cans. The bag is designed by Neide Ambrosio in Brazil. The bag weighs 1.1 pounds and measures 11.8" W x 7.9" H x 1.0" D. Each bag has a polyester lining. The current cost of each bag is $116.96.

I never would have thought that handbags can be made from so many different recycled materials.