DIY BEACH TOTE

Turn a basic tote into a chic Retro DIY Beach Tote with Shells and get ready to make a sartorial statement this summer.

When I was a kid my grandmother always carried these purses that were like very stiff basket totes embellished with all kinds of jewels and images. I remember she had one for summer with white trim, covered with seahorses, shells and pearls (that inspired this DIY) and one for winter with black trim and a big pot of gold surrounded by flowers.

I wish I had kept these or at least had better pictures of them, but I was able to find these online that are similar.

TOOLS & MATERIALS:

• Large tote – I found mine at Target
• Shells
• Rhinestones or pearls
• Tulip Dimensional Paint
• Acrylic paint
• Brushes
• Stencils or hand draw
• Hot glue

step 1
I used one of the large shells to base my design around.

I used pencil to draw some swirls.

step 2
Paint in your designs.

step 3
Use the hot glue to glue your shells and rhinestones to your bag.

step 4
Using the Tulip Dimensional Paint add some lines and dimension to your designs.

step 5
You can also add some of the dimensional paint around the rhinestones if you want.

Let all the paint dry.

I’ve been doing my best to keep sketching and drawing whenever I have a moment. I thought I would share my sketchbook with you today and these sketches inspired by this DIY.

Have a great weekend!