Canvas and Leather Tote

 Leather working, a simple upgrade to my sewing obsession.  I'm starting with the no-frills approach and making purse handles.  I can get carried away so it was a struggle to keep the design straight forward.  I wanted the end to have a little shape instead of a squared off blunt cut, so I'm pleased with the curve from the strap end cutter.  Then I made an edge crease all the way around, I like the way it looked but I think a little wider would be better next time.  No dyeing, stitching or painting, just simple hand tools. 

 I made this canvas and leather tote to take to the beach this summer or whatever other adventures befall me.

Here is the body of the bag complete and the uncut leather before I started working with it.

 Its roomy, stylish and understated; the perfect summer companion.   

The inside has one hanging pocket and is lined with muslin.  I was concerned that all of the weight and wear of the rivets on the canvas might result in a tear or fray, so I added leather pieces to the inside as well.  They are functional but I like the detail they add.

Here you can just faintly see the edge creasing, again a little wider next time.

Yes eventually they will show up in my Etsy shop once I become more comfortable with the process and the tweak the bag pattern.   In the mean time I'm interested to see what natural patina the leather will continue to take on.