Needing to make a batch of messenger bags to restock a local store, I decided to make one of them a painted canvas bag, and I love it. In fact, I am having a hard time deciding whether to sell this one, or keep it for myself!
It all started with a trip to Harbor Freight tools….
Among other crafting supplies, I found a 9 x 12′ painting drop cloth that was just begging to be made into painted bags! So I cut out my bag parts, and then started painting, using Golden’s fabric painting medium mixed with acrylic paints.
Then I painted some more, making sure every piece of the bag was covered. Details were added with a Sharpie paint pen. I have to admit that getting it all painted took awhile! Then I hung them on my studio clothes line to dry. An iron does the heat setting trick (use a cloth in between) or they could also be stuck in the dryer.
Then it was time to put it all together into a bag. I used black thread to add to the decorative look before I sewed the pieces together.
I love using funky found items for my hardware, like this ring salvaged from the worn out trampoline we threw away!
All in all, I am pretty happy with the new bag, it would be perfect for keeping an art journal at my side! I think I will be making more!
DAVID GROBE
Kayann, You are soooo cleaver! Pretty bag. Keep it. I have a challenge trying to learn how to use my new (to me) Pfaff sewing machine with embroidery attachment. It’s probably 18 yrs old but never used. Quite high tech for me. I only got rid of my old Viking because I couldn’t get another mother board. I’d love to find someone who could use my attachments for a Viking. Too conservative to throw anything away! Ha Naomi Date: Mon, 25 Aug 2014 12:03:39 +0000 To: dngrobe@msn.com
victoryrd
Thanks Naomi! My primitive style of sewing isn’t even in the ball park with the stuff you do! Good luck with the new machine! Seems like we are learning new technology every time we turn around. I am thankful for my simple old Bernina!
papict
The bag is brilliant. You are so multi-talented.
victoryrd
Thanks you!
havenofinspiration
Thank you for the head’s up about Golden’s Fabric Medium. This is going to be fun, fun, fun.
victoryrd
Yes it is! The fabric medium keeps the canvas pliable, so it won’t be stiff as it would with just acrylic paints.
robinpich
This is awesome!!!!!!! I can sew (barely) but have never made a bag before. MIght have to give this a try………
A little side project... - WildFire Accessories
[…] so, naturally, I wanted a bag that made the outing feel even more special. And, after seeing From Victory Road’s post about her painted messenger bags (GORGEOUS STUFF, PEOPLE!), I knew what I wanted to […]