I’m back in California! Chicago was a lot of fun but we’re glad to be home and back to our normal routines. We had activities planned from 9am-9pm everyday, which was fun and exhausting at the same time. Between New York and Chicago within a 2 week period, I’m ready for life to get back to normal. The kids really enjoyed Chicago but there were a few things I wish I had planned better. One of those being bringing something for my daughter to play with while we waited for the bus/taxi/train. It’s not anything we’re used to so it didn’t cross my mind that my toddler would get bored while waiting. As soon as we got back home I thought of a great idea to keep my daughter entertain on an upcoming trip next month. I decorated a small canvas tote bag to carry books, toys, or crayons in.

This may be the easiest craft project I’ve made. I simply purchased a small tote bag then used paint markers to paint stripes on it. Before we left I went shopping for some Elmer’s Painters at Walmart. I was excited to find out
that they now sell the paint markers individually for $1.97, which means I can pick
and choose what color(s) I need without having to buy a whole pack. I had a hard time narrowing down my choices.

I drew lines about 3/4 of an inch apart not worrying too much about how straight they were. I also only used one coat of paint to make the tote look weathered. After the paint dried I glued on a fabric rosette with some fabric scraps I had lying around.

It’s the perfect size for her miniature princess dolls. She was excited when I gave it to her and hasn’t let it out of her sight since. I like it so much I plan to make a large tote for myself. Then we’ll have customized mother and daughter tote bags. #ExpressYourself