Today I went to one of the coolest places to shop for materials: Canal Rubber. Canal Rubber has been around since the mid 50's and is a fixture of Canal Street. (I actually cannot stand Canal Street; the only shopping I do there is at Canal Rubber and Canal Plastic Center.)
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| Oh the wonderful treasures of Canal Rubber. |
Today's project is a style I was looking to try for some time- a two tone tote bag. I used the black rubber as the base and lined and topped it off with a natural colored duck cloth.
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| Black rubber sheet and natural colored duck cloth |
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| Top is duck cloth and the bottom is black rubber |
This piece is very simple but it has fantastic versatility. I added tote straps using wide twill tape which actually doubles as a closure, tied at the back, so you can transform it into a clutch. You can also use it as a clutch by tucking in the straps.
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| The Transformer Tote: Natural Duck Cloth, Rubber, Twill Tape |
This piece will translate very well into different fabrics and textures. Instead of the tie in the back it would be lovely with a handmade ceramic button.
I'm thinking that this would be pretty darn useful on one of those days where you have to lug a tote around all day but need a much cuter bag for dinner...
Can't wait to tackle the rubber tubing supply!
xo,
Arielle
PS- This item is now available for sale in my Etsy shop! https://www.etsy.com/shop/SalkinAccessories
