DIY Tribal Tote Bag

Warmer weather is {finally!} here, which means it’s a great time for a new tote bag to carry around all your spring and summer necessities! I wanted something with a bit of a tribal/boho vibe, so I decided to use a few of my favorite block printing stamps to create my own. Here’s how I made it in no time at all…

You’ll need:
a blank canvas tote bag
Fabric Creations Soft Fabric Ink, assorted colors
Fabric Creations Block Printing Stamps {mine are the Small Tribal Chevron and Medium Aztec Tile}
Foam Printing Mat
Sponge Brush or Squares
Paint Marker {optional}

Step 1: Place the foam printing mat inside your bag.

Not only does this keep the paint from bleeding through to the other side, it provides just the right surface {firm with just enough give} to make sure your stamped images turn out as clearly as possible. I actually have several, which is nice because then I can place them side by side in my bag and not have to keep moving one around as I work.

Step 2: Use a sponge or brush to apply paint to your block design.

Step 3: Place your block face down on the bag and press firmly.

Make sure not to rub the block around or twist it; just press straight down and lift straight up.

For my particular design, I used the Aztec Tile design three times in a turquoise, green, turquoise pattern.

Then, I went back and added the Tribal Chevron design vertically in Aqua between and on the outsides of my stamped Aztec Tiles. If you’re happy with the design as is {or with a unique design you create}, you can stop right here, let it dry, then put your bag to use! If you want to take it one step further by adding text, move on to the next step.

Step 4: {optional} Add a word.

I hand lettered mine using a paint marker, but you could also use a stencil and the Fabric Creations paints.

Once the paint dries, your bag is finished and ready to use! I really like this particular fabric paint because it dries flexible and soft, unlike many of the other fabric paints I’ve used in the past. It moves with the fabric, which is especially nice if you’re using it on clothing.

This took me less than ten minutes to do, and I can’t wait to carry it everywhere. There are tons of stamps and colors to chose from, so you can personalize this project any way you like and make it totally “you”! What do you think, is this something you’d love to create?