Make Your Own Tote Bag

Whether your child is going to school for the first time or returning for another year, you can really bond with him or her by creating something together.

One practical item is this great tote bag made from an old pair of denim jeans. Go ahead, have some fun with your kids and create a masterpiece together!

You will need the following:

• One pair of large old blue jeans preferably with a pant leg width of 8 to 12 inches.
• A pair of scissors.
• A sewing machine.
• A paint brush (number 6 size will work wonderfully, but any small brush will do).
• Fabric paint in the following colors: white, black and peach.
• A pencil or pen.
• A piece of draw string (cotton cord) or sturdy boot lace: 28 inches long.
• A safety pin.
• A printed copy of the folk art cow pattern found HERE. You should feel free to paint whichever design you choose. You can find many more folk art patterns at the Free Patterns page, or, come up with your own design.