| Look around your surroundings and you will | | | | depends on what is comfortable for you. |
| immediately notice that 7 out of 10 women carry tote | | | | If you are a beginner, avoid cutting out circles, as this |
| bags, whether for work or casual outings, totes are | | | | shape is quite difficult to hem. For a basic |
| pivotal items which are useful for a multitude of | | | | square-shaped tote bag, simply sew all three sides and |
| reasons. Making your own tote is very simple, but with | | | | then attach the straps. Use strong thread (double |
| the availability of inexpensive ones at craft or hobby | | | | thread the needle) or if you are adept at using sewing |
| stores, you can buy one and decorate it with your | | | | machines, even better. You can either hem the raw |
| own unique designs. The first thing you need is a | | | | edges or leave them be for aunique fashion statement. |
| strong and durable tote. | | | | Once the tote bag is sewn firmly, you may now begin |
| Choose from either heavy cotton or canvas, both are | | | | to decorate it. You can use fabric paint if you have |
| good bets. These two types of fabrics can withstand | | | | steady hands. Choose a color that is in contrast with |
| harsh weather, which is important as tote bags must | | | | the basic shade of the tote to make your designs |
| be durable and strong enough to accommodate a | | | | stand out. Designs vary extensively; from bold patterns |
| certain weight. Most hobby and craft stores carry a | | | | to more structured ones using stencils or rubber |
| wide range of sturdy fabric and you will be spoiled for | | | | stamps. Anything goes, and the wilder the better. For |
| choice. Try to avoid upholstery fabric as it is too heavy | | | | the more adventurous ones, try a Pollock-style of |
| and may already have prints and designs. You will | | | | splashing a multitude of colors all over the tote's body. |
| need a neutral base so your intended embellishments | | | | You will achieve an abstract pattern which is inimitable. |
| will come out prominent. Ask the shop assistant and | | | | Store bought tote bags are inexpensive, so you can |
| she or he will be able to advice you accordingly. | | | | afford to experiment. |
| Once you have made the fabric selection, proceed to | | | | If you find painting too messy, you can always opt for |
| carefully cut out the desired shape, be it rectangular, | | | | iron on transfers, which are also readily available in |
| square or a circle. The outline should be slightly bigger | | | | many designs at hobby shops. Tantalize your designs |
| than the dimension of your completed masterpiece. | | | | with unique wordings and self-composed tag lines. |
| Remember to keep some fabric to fashion two straps | | | | Who knows, you might start a trend. Use crystals or |
| for handles. The length of straps can either be long so | | | | rhinestones to add glamor. In fact, make several tote |
| you can sling it over your shoulders or shorter ones if | | | | bags to suit your different moods. As they say, |
| your intentions are to carry it on your arm. It all | | | | expressions cannot remain silent. |