cannafan;1894784 said:
This DIY will show you how to make your own Fabric Grow pots using ECO FELT. I call them "CannaBags" (credit to member Rainstacks for the name idea). Eco felt is made from recycled plastic bottles. This is a very sturdy grow pot and is washable! You will have much better aeration to your root system and good even water absorption and drainage.
The DIY is for an approximate 7 gallon grow pot. You can make them as large or smaller as you like by adjusting your measurements accordingly. Just be sure to cut the round bottom the same size as the opening with one half to one inch for hem.
I will not be instructing people how to sew here, I am taking for granted you already know the basics of sewing/cutting/measuring and how to use a sewing machine.
Here are the materials to start with, of course you need scissors, pins, measuring tape and a black marker is helpful:
One length of Eco felt cut 9.5" x 26.5"
One 9" Eco felt circle. I used a styrofoam plastic plate which was 9" and cut about 1/2" away from the circle I drew on the fabric with a black marker.
Two 5" lengths of strapping material. You can get this from old seatbelts, backpack bags or hunting straps. Look around, you'll see them used in all kinds of things. ;-)
Black polyester thread. Important to use Polyester as it won't deteriorate with moisture or mildew like nylon thread would.
Bias tape (black would be preferred, all I had was white) is optional. I used it on my top edge as you will see later just to give a little extra anti-stretch to the pot.
Set your stitch length at wider spacing than normal. I have my machine set at "1". That way the stitching won't be too tight and wind up cutting too much on the material later.
Now sew the edges together with 1/2" seam. 5/8" is usually the normal is sewing, but I wanted to come out even numbered on fitting pieces together. ;-)
This step is optional, I wanted a good strong rim on the pot so it will last through many uses. I folded the bias tape in half and pinned it to the edge of the top about 1/4" down from the edge. Then sewed it in place.
When that is done, fold the top down over the bias tape about 1/2" and sew within about 1/4" of the edge so you are sewing onto the bias tape too. If you choose not to use the bias tape, just fold over about 1/2" and sew it 1/4" from the top. Make sure you are sewing the fold to the INSIDE of the pot.
Now pin the bottom circle to the bottom of the pot. Make sure you have the seam outside when you do this and pin the circle inside the opening. You may have to work it a little to get it even so you won't have ripples. Sew it carefully making sure to turn your fabric with the circle and you will do fine.
Then sew it in place with about 1/2" seam.
Now you are ready for the handles. Pin the handles in place on the seam side of the pot (outside) and then sew an "X" on each end of the handle. Then repeat the process with the remaining strap on the other side of the pot. These will make it good and strong for lifting.
Your eco friendly Cannabag grow pot is now complete!
Questions or comments are welcome and please let me know if there is anything I need to add or correct. I did this in a bit of a rush today. Enjoy!