Easy DIY Project: Glitter Tote Bag

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Haul groceries, school supplies and work gear in style!

Tote bags are so basic, but SO useful. They’re perfect for holding everything you need to take on the day. Basic totes can be found for just a few bucks, and when it comes to crafting, they’re an ideal canvas for customization.

With just a few supplies and beginner DIY skills, you can add a glittery touch to a plain tote bag. Here’s how!

Supplies:

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    • Canvas Tote Bag

    • Foam Brush

    • Masking Tape

    • Glitter Fabric Paint

    • Strong Craft Glue and Flat Back Studs (Optional)

    Old Newspaper, Cardboard or Magazine Pages

Directions:

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1. Add strips of masking tape to the tote bag. Bold, simple designs work best for this project.

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2. Place newspaper, cardboard or magazine pages inside the tote bag. This will protect the paint from seeping through to the other side.

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3. Begin applying glitter fabric paint to the tote bag.

To create a feathered look: To achieve this, I applied most of the paint to the bottom of the triangle, using less as I worked my way up. It also helps to not reload your brush with more paint as you work upwards; instead, drag the semi-dry brush to disperse the glitter.

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Important Tip: move your brush in the same direction as the tape. In other words, don’t paint towards the tape from the sides. Paint will be more likely to sneak underneath the tape this way. Instead, move your brush straight along the tape.

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4. If you’d like, continue adding paint in other sections of the tote. I used the same feathering technique in all three sections.

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5. Once the paint is completely dry, carefully peel away the tape.

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6. If you’d like, glue a few flat back studs (or rhinestones!) for added dimension. Let dry overnight.

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Tuck the bag into your car, by the front door or in your everyday bag. You’ll have a customized tote to carry your daily necessities!

we heartsters – How big is your tote bag collection? Do you have a favorite?

photos: Kirsten Nunez for we heart this

Author

  • kirsten-nunez

    Kirsten is a lifestyle writer and craft book author focusing on DIY, food, health and creativity. Since 2010, she has been sharing DIY projects at WildAmor.com. In May 2014, Kirsten published her first book, Studs & Pearls: 30 Creative Projects for Customized Fashion.

One Comment

  1. This looks really cute & I use tote bags every day, why not make them sparkle!!!

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