Hemiola Crafts
Bread Bags
If you make your own bread or buy delicious artisan bread from a bakery, then you will want to look after well. Such bread does not have the longest shelf life, simply because it's not stuffed full of chemical preservatives, like cheaper alternatives.
When an artisan baker opened her own bakery in my village I decided to make some bread bags for her customers. I did quite a lot of research into the best materials to keep bread fresh for as long as possible.
- Keep it cool
- Keep it out of sunlight
- Allow it to breath a little.
Which material is best?
Linen is an excellent material to use. It is cool to the touch, breathable and keeps your bread out of the light. It has wicking properties which will prevent the bread from going mouldy. The linen I use in my bags has been pre-washed but it may still shrink a little on a subsequent wash.
Unfortunately linen is very expensive but as calico is breathable and will keep your bread out of the light, it provides a viable and cheaper alternative.
My range of bags
Bags are available in two sizes, useful for whether you are just storing one average size loaf or one extra large or even two loaves. Some are plain but all the linen bags are enhanced with some beautiful embroidery.
Caring for your bag
Hand or machine wash your bread bag up to 40c but do not use fabric conditioner or bleach. Preferably dry naturally and iron while damp. Avoid ironing on the embroidery but if you do need to, do so on the back with a damp towel.
