(I've worked very hard to design, prototype, develop and market these bags. I'm so happy that this is being linked to from many DIY sites, but I ask that you do not copy my design for resale. If you would like to purchase one of these bags from me, please visit my shop at www.allysonhill.com )
HOW IT STARTED:
It all started one day while I was driving. I was using a plastic grocery bag hung over my shift for a garbage and I was not happy with its function. It was ugly and just too big. Really now, you don't want that much garbage sitting in your car, right? I thought, why not design a nice-looking bag that could conceal this ugly plastic bag? I wasn't sure if it was do-able, but after many prototypes I figured it out:
WHAT IS SO UNIQUE ABOUT THIS BAG:
First of all, this bag features a fully adjustable strap. Not only can you choose the strap placement (side or center) but you can also tighten the strap EXACTLY how you want it. No more wishing there was just one more snap or one more hole (think about your belt). Next, there is the flexible plastic liner which slips in and out of the fabric case. Simply insert a plastic bag and tuck the excess in between the two layers to keep it concealed. No more ugly bag! Finally, there are tons of fabric choices to personalize your automobile – what could be better?
WHAT IS THIS DESIGNED FOR:
This bag is designed to hang over your stick shift, across the back of your headrest, or wherever you can think of! This bag is NOT designed to hold drive-thru trash, bottles (recycle those!), cans (recycle those too!), etc. This bag IS designed for all that small trash that tends to clutter up your cup holders and such.
I make these bags about 8" wide and 12" tall. I like this size because it is not too big to interfere with the passenger's leg room and again you probably shouldn't keep too much garbage sitting in your car, especially in warm weather.
ANATOMY OF THE BAG:
Measures 8” wide and 12” tall. There is an inner liner and an outer case. The outer case is made of the decorative fabric which is lined with black canvas for stability. The inner liner is made of black post-consumer recycled plastic and is specially designed to stay open for ease of use while driving. This plastic liner is not 100% leak-proof so be sure to use plastic baggies for added protection. All you do is insert a plastic bag and then tuck the excess in between the two layers along the top edge so that there is no ugly bag hanging over the side (like a garbage can).
THE STRAP SYSTEM:
The strap measures approximately 25” long and can be attached in one of two ways: on the side for hanging from a stick shift or in the center for hanging across a headrest. The strap attaches with a heavy-duty snap. Once snapped in place, simply wrap the other end of the strap around the shift/headrest, thread through the buckle and tighten as needed. Tuck the excess strap inbetween the inner liner and the outer fabric case. If you ever need to remove the bag you can do so without unthreading the strap, simply unsnap the bag and the strap will remain installed.
WHAT KIND OF PLASTIC BAG DO I USE?
The best option are these handy Biodegradable baggies on a roll from the infant or pet department (diaper/doggie clean-up bags). You can also find these online at Five Star Pet or in my shop. They are about the size of a film cannister and very handy for popping in the glove compartment or storing at the bottom of your auto trash bag. You can also use produce bags or grocery bags with the handles cut off (makes it easier to tuck in).