Talbot's Inspired Tote: Completed!

I fell in love with this tote,

but wasn't willing to spend $80 for it.

So, I decided to make one myself.

Originally, my intentions were to make an exact replica.

Upon visiting multiple local fabric shops, however,

and not finding the braided jute detailing,

I decided to skip that feature.

Then, as I began addressing the rope shoulder straps

and oversized grommets, I changed my plans again.

Never having loved rope straps on previous bags,

coupled with the fact that large grommets

(and accompanying installation kits)

would run me nearly $10,

I was happy to make sturdy fabric straps myself!

My final change was to line the bag in a bold patterned fabric.

I originally intended to use white canvas, but after

stumbling across this print, I couldn't pass it up!

So while it isn't exactly like the original,

(hey, at least its yellow and has a pineapple!)

I actually think I like it better

(for my purposes and budget especially)!

For less than $10 in fabric,

I was able to construct a sturdy bag for the pool this summer.

The outer fabric and lining are both made from heavy-weight canvas.

(Clean-up will be simple; I can just throw it in the wash.)

I recently found the patterned canvas at Hobby Lobby;

I'm in love with it, and want to use it again soon.

This sunny bag puts me in the mood for summer.

Although...

It does remind me that swimsuit season is just a few weeks away.

Now I'm depressed!

I better go; the treadmill is calling my name!