Create Your Own Pattern Beach Totes

One of my favorite things to do in the summer is get crafty with my kids. The toddler is super into texture experiences like finger paint and sand. Cam wants to do digital art, which could come in handy if I ever setup my own site. Conner and Kenzie are super into Anime style drawing. Aly on the other hand likes to paint rocks and shells with nail polish.

Me, I like to play with multiple mediums and get my inspiration from Pinterest. Recently, I came across an article for making your own patterns on fabric. The author, Damask Love, is a professional at this. She basically free hand painted adorable fruit patterns that she turned into summer envelope bags.

I am far less talented. I went to Wal-Mart and bought a set of 3 white canvas tote bags for right around $8 dollars. The girls and I also picked some brightly colored acrylic paints for this project.

For this project you will need:

• canvas tote bag
• cardboard to fit inside the bag so paint doesn't leak thru
• a water bottle
• paint brushes
• stencils
• paint sponge for polka dots

Dampen the cloth by spraying it with a water bottle. Then place a stencil in your desired location. Using a dry paint brush, gently paint over the stencil. I recommend wiping excess paint off your stencil between uses, but you can move it around and reuse the stencil as many times as you like to make your pattern. 

Aly made pink hippos. Aren't they cute. Any mistakes can be covered up with white paint and a q-tip to ensure precision application. 

Use the dotting sponge to add polka dots to your design. Once you are finished, allow the paint to dry over night. In the morning, you can either paint the other side of the bag, or just leave it white. 

Didn't they turn out adorable? I can't wait to fill them with towels, sunscreen, and books for the beach. They will be great for vacation in 2 weeks. I would love to see what designs you come up with for your bags. 

Have fun!

Kristie