Decorate tote bags
Sketch a personal motif, draw it on a cotton tote, and share the story behind the design. This is a marker workshop with no sewing or hot tools.
Activity steps
- Set up your design bench,Hang the prestrung birthday garlands above the design table, using tested removable mounting tape and keeping cords clear of guests. Cover one work surface for each group of six. An adult uses scissors to trim clean cardboard inserts before guests arrive. Give each guest a plain cotton tote and a fitted cardboard insert; put the insert inside so ink cannot transfer to the other side. Share fabric markers among four and a pencil between two. Set out one cardstock sheet per guest for a design sketch. Check the marker directions and prepare bags in advance as required.
- Sketch a design that feels like you,On the cardstock, try a simple monogram, abstract shape, favorite phrase or small icon. Keep it large enough to draw comfortably. Test a fabric marker on an inconspicuous part of the bag, then follow the marker directions to transfer the idea to the fabric. Keep ordinary pencils and paper markers off the finished design unless the maker allows them.
- Add color and let it rest,Keep the cardboard insert inside and one side flat while adding color. Leave each tote flat until the design dries fully. The selected fabric markers require heat setting: an adult irons each dry design later on medium without steam for 3–5 minutes, following the maker’s directions. Keep the iron out of the party activity.
- Show your signature detail,Invite guests to share a detail or color choice, with the option to pass. Keep bags flat and arrange later collection if they are still wet. Give each guest the marker’s heat-setting and washing directions; an adult completes curing before the bag is washed.
Choose a small design rather than covering the whole bag. Match bag material and marker directions before buying; protect clothes and allow extra drying time after the 45-minute activity.
Shopping list for 6 people
- Plain cotton tote bags — 6 bags
- Fabric markers suitable for cotton — 2 sets
- Clean cardboard inserts for tote bags — 6 inserts
- Colored cardstock — 6 sheets
- Pencils — 3 pencils
- Wipeable table cover — 1 cover
- Scissors to share — 1 pair
- Rainbow birthday garlands — 1 set
- Removable paper tape — 1 roll
Use supplies you already have. Enable JavaScript to adjust guests and mark what you need.