Customized Tote Bags

When I decided to have the luncheon for the ladies down by the pool, I knew I wanted to make something special for each lady.  I always try to have party favors for each event with the theme's colors.

I found the woven tote bags  at Target in the Dollar bins.  They were $3.00 each.
I set out to customize each one with their names on them.  Using chalkboard fabric is great, since you can erase the writing and write what you want.  I found the chalkboard fabric at Jo-ann's for $4.99 a yard.  Perfect for school projects, aprons, posters, smocks, or wall-hangings 

I  traced this pattern onto the chalk fabric and cut it out with pinking shears.

I use a chalkboard marker to write the names....I found some at Michaels.  They were cheaper on Ebay.

I decided to hand sew them on each bag with a coordinating ribbon to give it a decorative look.  I used a curved chalkboard template for the design.  Use a hole punch to make the  holes for  stitching the ribbon through and a large needle.

 You can find the ribbon, flowers and some  colored burlap at the Dollar store  I layered the wide burlap with two other ribbons and tied a big bow on the handles with twine.

I decided to hang the tote bags on two shepherd hooks and a curtain rod.  I bought turquoise hangers at Ross and hung each bag. There are colorful leis on each side for the ladies.
When they arrived, I told them to find their bag and hang it on the back of the chair where they want to sit.
My mother loved the tote bags and wanted to make some for her group for the Red Hat Luncheon coming up. She came over today and we worked on them together.  We also made the cute  Nutter Butter flip flops in the red hat colors, red and purple.

Have a wonderful weekend.  It's getting hot...pool time.... 
I am linking up with the following blogs:

  What To Do Weekends @ Crafts Ala Mode

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About Linda @ Life and Linda

Hello, welcome to LifeandLinda. I am from Northern California. I enjoy blogging, Designing Blogs, Decorating, cooking, entertaining, gardening and clogging. I hope you enjoy your visit.