DIY Patterned Tassel Tote Bag

I am so excited for spring! Aren’t you? I wanted to add some color to my drab winter outfits with a fun patterned and tassel DIY tote that I can very well use throughout the whole year. And guess what, I’m so happy with how it turned out that I need to create more of them. Jump in to see how I made them – and I promise, it’s not that hard at all!

Supplies needed to make your own tassel DIY tote:

• Canvas Tote
• Yarn (I used this mint-colored one and an aqua color)
• Bead Spacers
• Embroidery Thread
• Heat Transfer Vinyl
• Iron
• Embroidery Needle
• Turkey Lifter (or a similar utensil)
• Hot Glue Gun
• Scissors

Step 1. First, let’s create the tassels. I used a turkey lifter to do so – you want something with two prongs with a bit of distance apart. You can also use two nails nailed to a board, or a similar contraption. With the utensil I used, I was able to make two tassels in one wrapping. Wrap the yarn around the prongs about 60 times to create a fat short tassel.

Step 2. Next, tie around the yarn to create the heads of the tassels (tying a piece of yarn on each end on the inside as pictured below). Cut the wrapped yarn in the middle to create your two tassels.

Step 3. Then, using an embroidery needle, thread a length of embroidery floss through the loops of the head of the tassel. Gently squeeze the head to create a more rounded shape, and tie the embroidery floss tightly, securing the shape in the process.

Step 4. To add more color to the tassel, I wrapped the neck with a contrasting color of embroidery thread. Wrap it tightly a few times until you are happy with the thickness, and then glue down the end with a dot of hot glue.

Step 5. I wanted to add the beads so the tassels move more – I thought it would look more fun. Thread a few beads onto the embroidery floss so your tassels hang an inch or so from your bag. I found it easiest to thread it using the embroidery needle.

Step 6. Now let’s add a pattern to the bag – you can literally do anything you like here. I used a simple arrow/triangle look for mine by cutting multiple fattened triangles using my die-cutting machine, stacked them up and scattered them on the bag – adding a fun random feel to the pattern.  You can also choose to create your own stamp and stamp the bag, or use what you have on hand. I think cacti or even crosses would look cute too!

Step 7. Attach each tassel to the sides of the bag with an embroidery needle. Secure it by sewing it a few times and then knotting the embroidery floss on the inside of the bag and cutting off the excess. If you would like to make it extra secure, add a dollop of hot glue to each knot to prevent it from unraveling.

Lastly, repeat with all the tassels – and you are done!

I really just love how this tassel DIY bag turned out and definitely think I’ll be using it more than any other tote I have in the next few months. The pop of color and the extra fun added by the tassels just make me smile! What colors would you use to make your tassels for this bag?

Aki

Aki is an avid DIY-er, crafter and designer. She loves trying out new craft materials, processes, and learning about new ideas. She has a passion for designing printed material as well, from free cards, wallpapers and party items. Follow her crafty adventures over at mintedstrawberry.blogspot.ca where she shares DIY tutorials and free printables.