Introduction: DIY: Sun-dye Your Own Tote Bag

About: Fairgoods is an online shop that sells a curated selection of accessories, housewares, apparel, decor, and type — with a focus on goods that use type. For more DIYs, visit our blog: blog.fairgoods.com.

Sun-dye your own tote bag.

Step 1:

What you’ll need:

  • Lumi dye
  • Fairgoods tote templates (They’re free!)
  • Blank canvas tote bag
  • Foam brush
  • Painter’s tape
  • Cardboard
  • Inkjet printer
  • Transparency film paper

Step 2:

Pick your design and print it out onto transparency film using your inkjet printer. We’ve created five designs for you to choose from, or you can create your own.

Step 3:

Decide where you’d like to place the design on your bag and then trace around the edge of the sheet with a pencil.

Step 4:

Using your pencil guides, tape off the area using painter’s tape.

Step 5:

Slide a piece of cardboard inside your tote to prevent the dye from soaking through. Next, shake your packet of Lumi dye for 30 seconds and then open it and evenly squeeze out the dye over your surface.

Step 6:

Spread out the dye evenly with a brush. Wipe up all excess dye with paper towels or a cloth on the inside of the tote and the cardboard.

Step 7:

As soon as you’re done with the ink, place your design over it and head outside.

Step 8:

Set your tote bag outside in direct sunlight for 5 to 10 minutes, or until you’re happy with the color.

Step 9:

Bring your tote inside and remove the film. Remove the masking tape and let dry for 24 hours in a dark place. That’s it. Your bag is ready to use. We hope you totes enjoy your tote. (Sorry.)