About this Product
This is a handmade tote bag with a rustic and earthy design. It measures 16x17 inches and is crafted from a combination of waxed cotton, burlap, and canvas. The upper part of the bag features a waxed cotton fabric with a black and white paisley pattern, adding a touch of elegance. Below the patterned fabric is a solid black band, which creates a nice contrast. The lower portion of the tote is made from burlap, giving it a textured and natural look. The handles are sturdy and are made from black wax cotton. The inside of the tote is lined with canvas, providing additional strength and durability. This bag would be perfect for casual outings, carrying groceries, or even as an everyday carryall.
SpiritEarthCraft
Meet the Maker
Jacqui and Tara are the creative force behind Spirit Earth Craft, a unique shop born out of their shared passion for art, nature, and community. As sisters, they have always been connected through their love for handcrafted goods and a deep appreciation for the natural world.
Together, Jacqui and Tara have built Spirit Earth Craft as an extension of their values—celebrating the beauty of nature, fostering a sense of community, and offering handcrafted niceties that bring joy and tranquility into people's lives. Their shop is more than just a business; it’s a gathering place for those who appreciate the art of handmade goods and the spirit of the earth.
How it’s Made
Here’s how the tote bag was made, incorporating the step where the maker waxed the cotton:
1. Material Selection: The maker chose high-quality cotton fabric, burlap, and canvas. Waxed cotton was desired for its durability and water-resistant properties, so the maker decided to wax the cotton fabric themselves. Burlap was chosen for its rustic, textured look, and canvas was used for the lining due to its strength and sturdiness.
2. Waxing the Cotton: The maker began by waxing the cotton fabric. They applied a layer of natural wax to the cotton, then used heat to melt and evenly distribute the wax, ensuring the fabric became water-resistant and gained a slightly rugged texture. This process not only added durability but also gave the cotton a distinct look and feel.
3. Cutting the Fabric: After waxing, the fabric pieces were measured and cut to size. The waxed cotton and burlap were cut according to the dimensions required for the tote, with seam allowances included. The canvas lining was also cut to fit the interior.
4. Assembling the Exterior: The maker then sewed the waxed cotton and burlap together, with a black band of fabric between them to add contrast and reinforce the seam. The waxed cotton formed the upper part of the bag, and the burlap created the lower portion.
5. Adding the Lining: The canvas lining was assembled separately, then attached to the inside of the tote. This lining adds durability, ensuring the bag can carry heavy items without wear.
6. Creating the Handles: The handles, made from black wax cotton, were cut to the desired length and securely sewn onto the tote. The attachment points were reinforced to ensure the handles could support the weight of the bag’s contents.
7. Final Assembly: The exterior and lining were joined together, with all edges neatly sewn to create a polished look. The bottom of the bag may have been reinforced with extra stitching to handle heavier loads.
8. Finishing Touches: The maker trimmed any loose threads and checked all seams and edges for quality. The bag was then inspected to ensure it met the desired standards of craftsmanship and durability.
This tote bag is a result of careful handcrafting, from waxing the cotton to stitching the final seams, reflecting both function and style.
