In The Event That...

You're An Eco-Conscious Bag Lady

by Aly Semigran

Shopping Bag ChicSat., March 15, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., $35, registration required, Old Pine Community Center, 401 Lombard St., 215-405-6390, phillysewing.org

It's been one year since San Francisco became the first city in the U.S. to ban the use of plastic shopping bags. And while Philadelphia may not have followed suit (yet), you can put the kibosh on plastic at Philadelphia Sewing Collective's Shopping Bag Chic class.

"It really puts the idea of disposable goods into question," says PSC founder Megan Haupt. "When you make something, it gives you more motivation to make other things rather than throw them away." Instructed by local artist Kelly Cobb, the class will give crafty environmentalists the chance to stitch and silk-screen their own Earth-friendly bags. And while sewing machines will be involved, no skills are required. "Whether you're more experienced or you haven't picked up sewing since sixth grade, you should do just fine," assures Haupt. Peace out, paper and plastic.