Thursday, January 12, 2012

D.I.Y. Proenza Schouler Canvas Tote. Part 1

Hey loves!
I've been spotting some amazing oversized totes on the runways and on the most fashion-conscious streets of New York, suggesting the trend is coming our way. Also, I came across a really sporty version by Proenza Schoeler, and it really inspired me.
Hold your breath...This Proenza Schoeler tote goes for...a whopping $1350
And I thought I should really make one for me, less costly of course.  Right after the holidays I visited Jo-Ann store for inspiration and I ran into a roll of burlap canvas with vintage French print and the ideas started running through my head. I decided to tweak my version a bit, make it more original.
Tonight, together with you I'll complete Part 1 of this project, and since it required more steps than I anticipated, I split it in 2 parts, as surely, I don't want you to fall asleep while looking through these pictures and reading the text.

You will need:
1. Burlap canvas fabric, print or solid (1/2 yd)
2. 1 pair of Wooden purse handles (similar here )
3. Large piece of real or synthetic leather 
4. Cotton lining fabric (1/2 yd)
5. Scissors
6. Several magnetic snaps (similar here)
Needles and thread, and a sewing machine (I know many of you don't have one, but there are really small machines available and not expensive, surely it will a fraction of the cost of the original tote)

make sure to click "Read more"

Step 1. 
Fold the burlap in half, and then fold the center inward one more time, about 2 1/2 inches, as shown.




Step 2.
Measure the folded length of your tote, and cut 4 strips of leather measuring 1 inch wide.


Step 3.  
Arrange the 1 inch strips on each side about 4 inches from edge, as shown in picture. Start stitching strips to the tote, from each side. 4 pieces total.




Step 4.


Measure the length of your purse handle opening. Cut a piece of leftover burlap in that length +1 inch. Fold and stitch the raw edge of each side, then pin to the top of your tote, as in picture.Once finished, pull the fabric through handle opening and make sure it fits correctly.






Step 5.
Now, you're ready to attach your sides. Cut 2 pieces of leather, 6 1/2 inches wide and the length of your tote+1/2 inch. Start stitching the center first (it will be the bottom of your tote), then each side of tote, again from center, as in picture. 




Part 2 To Be Continued Tomorrow
***
So, my friends, I hope you haven't fallen asleep yet. :) And I hope you enjoyed my project as much as I did today, and please stay tuned for tomorrow's post where I'll be showcasing the finished product, my very own Proenza Schoeler inspired tote!!

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Заинтриговала!!!

Skinny Moonstick said...

This looks awesome! I am smitten by the fact that you're making your own unique hand-made high fashion inspired tote! Can't wait for the final product! :)
Good luck!

skinnymoonstick.blogspot.com

Kia Gomez said...

Hey !
I bet your bag will look beautiful, when it's finished ! The coolest thing is that you'll have a unique bag :)

xoxo

melindaaa said...

wow looks fantastic so far! i'm looking forward to seeing the finished product!!

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