Tote bag - reworked military canvas

Fabric: reworked heavyweight duck canvas, deadstock drill cotton

Fabric origin: New Zealand military 

Notes: This bag is made using a deconstructed NZ army bag and some heavy duty webbing I found in the military surplus store. I love it in there, but I can’t stand it at the same time. 

The design was inspired by a treasured Head Porter tote. As well as its distinctive (and very handy) double exterior pockets, I’ve incorporated some of the less obvious details which have become my favourites – the rolled handles creating a smooth grip and the concealed press stud fasteners. There are no hidden pockets – mainly because I used all the fabric on the outer of the bag, but also because I find those pockets confusing and superfluous.

The design was also dictated by how much material I had. I used all of it! It’s large-ish as far as tote bags go but would be fine for using to carry a laptop and some lunch (that’s what I do with mine). The sides press-stud together for a sleeker vibe but you could pop them open if you needed extra space. The lining is NZ military deadstock drill.

Another inspiration for this bag is an old cylinder-arm walking foot machine, which has found its way into my workshop thanks to my friend Nicole, who is moving to America. The machine is cranky and unpredictable, better suited to leather than the denim and drill cotton I usually work with. It came in very handy on this, however, especially on the handles.

Details

• 36cm W, 33cm H, 16cm D
• heavy canvas outer, drill cotton liner
• double layer base, two exterior pockets
• concealed press stud fastenings
• contrast binding detail
• Individually made in Aotearoa New Zealand