The makers tackle zero waste by repurposing, repairing, and teaching others how to make their own items.

If you are interested in being a maker, or just want to learn, join the Toward Zero Waste Facebook group to get tips, advice, and share your ideas!

Emily Neuhouser
Emily NeuhouserMakers' Community Director
Emily is a Cary resident and attorney recruiter. She has been passionate about the environment since she was a child and has sewn reusable bags with the Makers since 2023. Emily became the Makers Community Director in 2024 and is excited to expand the group’s footprint in our local community.

The Reusable Bag Project Team

Nancy Riemer
Nancy Riemer Team Lead
Fabric Management Team Photos

Reusable Bag Project!

We created this project as reusable bags are great for so many occasions and we want to help others make the switch

If you want to take action and make an impact in the local community to reduce the consumption of single-use plastic bags, you can help by making reusable bags out of existing materials!A large aspect of the Reusable Bag Project is managing the secondhand fabric that comes to us through donations. We receive many offers, and while some materials are suitable for the project, some are better off being diverted through other means (buy nothing, charity shops, etc.) Our Fabric Management Team is taking on the task of assessing, sorting, storing, and cutting to ensure the best use and efficient flow of materials. We are generally prioritizing washable fabrics made of natural fibers and light to medium weight woven fabrics (quilting cottons, sheeting, light canvas). We also ask that the fabric is washed prior to donation. Thank you!

You can find all of our reusable bag making instructions here:

Lined Tote Bag Project Guidelines cover image

Lined Tote Bag Instructions

Lined Tote Bag Project Guidelines cover image

Unlined Tote Bag Instructions

Strap Guidelines cover image

Strap Instructions

Upcoming Toward Zero Waste Makers Events!

Check out more events in NC and virtual events on our Events Calendar

Questions, comments, or suggestions about the TZW Makers Group? Contact Us!