Dick and Jo Bardole are pictured here presenting the 100th woven mat they have completed to Midwest Mission.
Dick and Jo create what Midwest Mission Director, Danille Curtis describes as creative functional art from plastic bags.
Jo explains it requires 1,000 plastic bags to provide a mat that will be 6 feet long and 3 feet wide. The bottom and handles are cut off from the bags. The bag is then cut in half, and the two strips are securely knotted together before weaving. The mats are woven on a large wood loom in a very tight manner so they will be water resistant.
The Rippey United Methodist Church is a drop off point for plastic bags. Jo adds a sling type strap so the mat may be easily carried, along with a Bible phrase or positive note attached. The mats go to larger communities for the homeless population, or to foreign countries.
Additional plastic bags are always welcomed.
Congratulations on 100 Dick and Jo. Thank you for your service.