About this Product
This handwoven red white and blue patriotic rag rug bag was handwoven on my antique barn loom. The fabrics used to create this tote came from a variety of recycled clothing and bed linens that have been washed and cut into strips. The strips are sewn together for weaving. The colors of this stylish boutique bag are a bright and cheery red, white and blue. Attached to the front is a handcrafted polymer clay button. You will definitely get compliments when using this sturdy tote / purse.
This tote is 16” (seam to seam) x 15 high x 4” deep (bottom 4"x12") and has a recycled blue jeans pocket inside to carry a phone and small objects. The handles are 2” black polypro, just the right length to carry or throw over your shoulder (12" from the top of the tote).
This tote has many useful purposes:
book/magazine bag
knitters project bag
Grocery tote
General carryall
Sports Bag
My creative process is based on using salvaged materials (what most consider trash) which makes this tote eco-friendly and one-of-a-kind and a perfect gift for yourself, a friend, mommy to be or teacher.
Ships free with USPS
Sleepy Owl Fiber Arts
Meet the Maker
I have always enjoyed color and creating art. I started with drawing and painting, cake decorating and flower arranging. After working in these mediums, I discovered fiber and weaving, about 30 years ago. My first and favorite loom is an antique barn loom that I acquired from friends. It is a handmade loom that weaves wonderful fabric. This loom dates back to the late 1800s. One loom is never enough! Now, I also have three 4 harness looms, a Lillstina, Gallinger and a Sabina floor loom. Then I added two small rigid heddle looms which I use to sample and weave scarves. Just recently, my husband made a triangle loom. I love the scarves that can be made on this loom.
I truly love the fact that my rugs and totes are made from linens and clothing that are headed to the landfill. These fabrics are washed then cut into strips and either sewn or interlocked to create the weft for my rugs. This process makes each rug unique.
My scarves are woven with quality fibers and fabric. My favorite style of scarf weaving is the Saori, which is a freeform weaving. These a wonderful way to achieve beautiful color combinations.
Since my work is not mass-produced, I attract people who understand and appreciate the value of handcrafted fabric.
How it’s Made
I use the same process as our ancestors did to make my rugs. Worn clothing and linens are cut or torn into strips and sewn or linked together to make strands long enough to wrap around a shuttle for weaving. The warp or threads are measured and threaded through the reed and heddles singularly. After this process, the warp is wound onto the beam with even tension. The threads are then tied onto the cloth beam and the weaving can begin. I take pride in keeping this tradition alive.
Shop Policies
Returns accepted within 14 days of receiving items. A refund will be issued if returned in original condition. Customer is responsible for return shipping.
