I’m always on the look out for simple and inexpensive ways to revamp items I already own once I wear out their traditional look. It’s just an added bonus when the finished outcome of a revamp makes it look even more expensive than it really is, like DIY leather strapped tote bag which only cost me $15 in materials!
Chelsea from Lovely Indeed sent me this darling tote a few months ago, and I’ve been using it for everything. It was just a matter of time before it earned it’s leather straps, here’s how:
Materials:
- Small rivet starter kit
- Scissors
- Leather punch
- Tote
- Leather for straps (bought mine precut at Tandy leather, similar here)
First, cut the existing straps off your bag as close to the trim as you can. Then measure and cut two 22inch leather pieces to use as straps. The width is up to you as far as comfort, mine are cut a 1/2 inch thick.
Once you have the desired placement of your straps, use the leather punch to punch through the straps and tote bag. I made two holes for two rivets on each side for added support, but it’s up to you.
Next, insert rivets in the holes you previously made according to the instructions on your kit.
If you want to make a closure strap, measure and cut a piece of leather that is 1inch wider than the desired with of your closure strap, and insert a rivet on each side.
This way it’s snug enough to keep the strap closed.
Cut a piece of leather that’s about 6 or 7 inches long to use as a strap (making sure it’s long enough to safely rest where you placed the enclosure piece).
Making sure the leather is facing wrong side-up, use a rivet to to attached the leather strap.
Fold the strap over and under the enclosure, and you’re finished!
