Friday
Jan202012
Alt Summit // DIY Tote Bag
Friday, January 20, 2012
In preparation for Alt, I knew that I needed a good bag to tote around all of the loot that we are given at Alt. I decided to make my own bag. Originally, I wanted it screen printed, however, that didn't work out as my time management skills prior to this week were non-existant. A friend of mine, Jamie, suggested that I make a stencil and use fabric paint! Super simple, why didn't I think of that!
One: The first thing that made this project super simple is I have a Silhouette machine. It's a paper cutting machine that is connected to your computer. You can download images to cut or design your own. I highly recommend this tool as there are a million things you can do with it!
I used sticker paper to make the stencil. If you don't have a sillhouette, I would print out the image, transfer it onto the paper, and then cut it out with an excto knife.
Two: Lay stickers on the tote bag. Remember: wherever you put the stickers, this is where the paint will not go. I wanted the negative image painted, so I placed the positive image onto the tote bag.
Three: All stickers are in place - make sure that they are very secure. Rub them onto the fabric a few times.
Four: Using a stencil brush, apply paint. I used Martha Stewart's new all purpose paint from Michaels. Super cheap and really easy to use! Make sure to use a tapping motion when applying the paint.
Five: After, applying the paint, let dry for at least 30 minutes. Depending on the paint, you may need to do a second coat.
Six & Seven: Slowly peel off stickers! This is my favorite part! :)
Finished Product!
Cost: $10 for paint, new stencil brush, sticker paper
Tote was a gift from Jamie
* Disclaimer - I think I told someone I screen-printed this... sorry! Lack of sleep!
*Also, I apologize for the bad lighting in these pictures. This project was completed late at night with a not so great camera. Next thing I buy is an amazing camera! :)
Reader Comments (6)
Great idea! I'm hoping to go to BlogHer in New York this summer and think I will make a tote too!
Great idea and the finished bag looks so professional!
You are completely amazing!
@Andi I haven't heard of BlogHer, I'll have to look into that! You should make a tote, if you need help, I could cut out the sticker that you need!
@Will, You are the sweetest! Thanks so much!
@Daisy, thank you, hope to see you soon! I don't have a trip planned home yet, must do so soon! :)
I love this idea!!! So cool! I want to make one for an upcoming blogging trip too! I promise to give you credit of course. :)
This was such a cute idea!