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Tote to Backpack DIY

Summertime pleads for backpacks. I've been planning to attempt this project for some time, and I finally decided to conquer it once and for all. Here's what I did...
Supplies: Tote bag, quilting rope, paint, large hemp (optional).
Pantry Supplies: Scissors, paintbrush, masking tape, bobby pin.

Begin by cutting off one strap of the tote bag. On the side you cut off the strap, make a small slit on the outside layer of the rim. This will be to thread the drawstring. In order for the drawstring to reach the back of the backpack, you'll need to unstitch the remains of the strap you cut off. It will be a small square of canvas with an X sewn on top. Simply cut it off, and remove the stitching that attached it so that you can thread the drawstring through. This step sounds complicated, but once you're looking at the tote in person it will make much sense! To thread the drawstring, take a long piece of quilting rope, and wrap a piece of masking tape around it and a bobby pin through it. This will make threading it MUCH easier. While you're threading the drawstring, you'll come to the seam of the tote. Simply cut a small slit on each side of the inside of the rim and thread through, avoiding the seam altogether. Lastly, finish the drawstring by cutting a small slit right in front of the strap on the opposite side, pull it through, and tie a knot. Repeat this process on the opposite side, and tie knots at the ends so that the rope doesn't unravel. Now, it's time for the straps. Braid two long strips of rope and hemp, and knot at both ends. You'll attach both of them through one hole right in between the remaining strap in the back. Pull both sides through, and sew it securely on the outside of the bag. Attach the ends on bottom, opposite sides with the same process. Lastly, paint a beautiful design! 

This project might seem a bit intimidating at first, but it's really a simple project with minimal sewing. I hope you try and tackle this project to create your very own backpack.  

And on that note, I'm off to make a much needed mocha. 


Comments

  1. This is one of the best DIYs I've seen in a while!
    -Miranda

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  2. LOVE this. Definitely need to try it! so cute!
    jennybodell.blogspot.com

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  3. What a cute idea! It's great because you can generally get tote bags for pretty cheap.

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  4. This is amazing! Maybe i'll get around to trying it sometime! Thanks for sharing!

    -Amy
    http://theblankpagesblog.blogspot.com/

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  5. I can't sew. I need a new backpack. I love to create. This is perfect! I can't wait to buy a plain tote bag, paint it, and transform! Thanks for the tutorial!!

    -Kenzie

    http://kenzieshummingbeevintage.blogspot.com/

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  6. Ok, not to be too fangirly, but this is definitely one of the most brilliant DIY's I've seen. Such a perfect bag for summer! I'm gonna have to try this.

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  7. That is really really great idea. How could you come up with turning a tote into a backpack? And I also love how you make the print on the tote/backpack. Looks like a tribal print??? Just pinned it :) Such a graet idea for summer!

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  8. This is such a simple idea! It's genius! :)

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  9. This is such a great idea! You're a genius!

    Becky
    Xx

    Http://www.beckybedbug.com

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  10. Now this is extremely creative. Love the design.

    www.eatblogpray.blogspot.com
    xo

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  11. This is beautiful and inventive. Keep up the beautiful work!

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  12. Looks so beautiful! I love it!

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  13. this is sooooo cute! these backpack styles are usually really expensive in the shops! x

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  14. Kinsey, this is genius!! Love it! I'm def going to try this!

    ~Sacha

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  15. Totally amazing! your DIY skills are not to be messed with! Defintiely want to try it out.

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  16. This is so cute I'm definitely going to make one!!!
    This by far is the best diy ever!!!! :)

    -annika

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  17. This is a fab idea, cant wait to try it out.

    Zoe
    http://gypsiesister.blogspot.co.uk

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  18. Such a lovely idea! I could really use a new backpack for the fall. Thanks for the DIY!

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  19. Oh my gosh, this is adorable. I will definitely be trying it soon!


    youreinbrookelynn.blogspot.com

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  20. This is great!! :D

    Following you now xx

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  21. Wow ! That's cool and does it work the same with a real leather tote bag ? Because I want to do that with my bag . - Jo Ann ^_^

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  22. Thanks for share in your creative mind and trendy style bags. Keep it up

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  23. Wow, thats an awesome idea. Thank you for sharing a valuable information to us.

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