Anchor Print Bag

How to Make

1. Print and trace or draw three anchor shapes onto the paper backing of a sheet of self-adhesive foam, ensuring they are all the same size. Cut them out and stick them together to form the motif of your foam stamp. Cut several rectangles of foam, ensuring that the rectangle is bigger than your anchor shape, and stick them together to form a stack or block. Secure your anchor motif to one side of the block and your stamp is ready to go.
2. Iron your fabric bag then place a carrier bag inside to prevent any paint seeping through. Pour fabric paint into a tray, then dip your anchor stamp (motif facing down) into the paint. Ensure it has an even coating of colour – you can use a paintbrush to apply the paint if this makes it easier. Wipe any excess paint from the block or stamp to avoid transferring it onto your fabric (This should only happen if you press down too hard when stamping).
3. Gently press the stamp onto the bag, applying light, even pressure over the design to ensure a clear print. Don’t worry if your stamp doesn’t transfer completely, or the paint around the edges bleeds into the fabric a little, this is all part of the style.
4. Repeat this as many times as desired, applying fresh paint each time, until you’re happy with the number of anchor motifs on your tote. Allow the bag to dry completely.
5. Once dry, cut four strands of red thread to the same width as the bag. Secure the threads to the top of the bag by stitching at the ends and then at a quarter and half way across. Add threads to the bottom of the bag in the same way.

Top Tip

Don't try to remove the carrier bag from inside the tote until the paint is completely dry