The urban companion: DIY handbags

DIY HANDBAGS 

DIY #1 SISTERS TOTE BAG BY @VANILLE_IST_SCHWARZ

Materials:

• Crochet hook size 4
• Approx. 200g raffia with Run length approx. 250 m

Great start to crochet

Don‘t worry, the bag that Ioana from Instagram account „Vanille ist Schwarz“ has designed for us is suitable for both beginners and advanced crocheters. Inspired by some very famous fashion brands, she created the DIY version for you, in different levels of difficulty:

1. A plain and more simple variation
   (#easysisterstotebag)
2. A more sophisticated version (#fancysisterstotebag) with triangular design at the front
3. You even have the possibility to create your own design using the sketch on page x and crochet it just the way you like it  (#mysisterstotebag)

Each bag is crocheted in one piece, from the bottom up – without the hassle of sewing lots of threads in between. So, let‘s go! 

DIY #2: TECH CROCHET BY MARIE DARME-RIZZO

This multi-color crochet laptop case is perfect for adding a bit of joy to your work day.

Materials: 

• Crochet hook size 4
• Approx. 4x350g Trapillo,
  in 4 different colors

Instructions: 

Dimensions for a Macbook 15‘ (35cm x 25cm)

1. Crochet 74 chain stitches in orange (2 rows)
2. Change color and crochet 6 rows of single crochet (UK)/double crochet (US) 
3. Change color and sc (UK)/dc (US) 9 rows in yellow
4. Exchange color and sc (UK)/dc (US) 6 rows in pink
5. Swap color, and sc (UK)/dc (US) 4 rows in gray
6. The whole piece is then folded and sewn together at the sides – it couldn‘t be easier :).

DIY #3: PAINTED SHOPPER BY LOUISE GOUET

Totes are all the rage – so try to find one that‘s different from the rest! This DIY scenic Paris-inspired tote will brighten up your look and have people asking where you got it.

Materials: 

• Printed template
• Acrylic paint for elather
• Handbag / shopper
• Brushes
• Marker (e.g. from Posca)

Helpful Tips from Louise

1.  First, “deglaze” the leather/PU material before painting by wiping the bags with rubbing alcohol. Removing the shiny finish helps the paint adhere better. 
2. Less opaque colors may need more coats than others. 
3. Paint a first coat of white to make the colors brighter.
4. It’s best to paint several thin layers rather than lay the paint on thickly.
5. Mix colors to get the perfect shade!
6. Make sure each layer is dry to the touch before painting another coat or details on top.
7. It’s helpful to stuff the bag with newspaper so that the painting surface is sturdy and flat.
8. Sketch the design out first using Posca markers.
9. Between colors, wash your brush with water and dry thoroughly on a paper towel (or use a different brush for each color).

DIY #4: PAINTED MINI BAG BY LOUISE GOUET

The second design by illustrator Louise reminds us of city views of Amsterdam. Again, you can get creative and choose your favorite colors!

Materials: 

• Printed template
• Acrylic paint for elather
• Handbag / shopper
• Brushes
• Marker (e.g. from Posca)

DIY #5: FLOWERY CROCHET BAG BY THE SISTERMAG TEAM

This is the cutest neutral DIY tote to add to your collection. These beautiful crochet flowers add a delicate and unique touch that will elevate any look – casual or professional.

Materials

• Crochet hooks size 3 & 4
• Yarn in different shades of beige
• Shopper made of fabric material
• Very thick needle for sewing on

Instructions

1. For this canvas shopper we needed about 50-60 flowers. However, with the help of the Youtube videos linked below, it was quite easy!
2. Use different yarns and flower sizes to add as much variety to the design as possible. 
3. Don‘t hide the thread at the end, use it to sew the flowers onto the bag. 

• Easy Flower
• Easy Flower 2
• The Olivia Flower

WE WANT TO SEE YOUR CREATIONS:

FOLLOW AND TAG US IN YOUR WORK #SISTERMAGDIY