DIY triangle stamped bag

since charging for carrier bags came into force I've accumulated about £100 of plastic bags under my sink... ok maybe not, but it feels like it!

when I head out shopping I always forget to take bags with me so I end up with yet more to add my pile... gah. I decided to make a market bag to encourage me to be more eco friendly (bye bye plastic) plus I've been wanting to try out stamping for ages so it's a double win!

the technique is super simple and you can stamp on anything from tote bags to cushions. I'd never heard about foam stamps until I read a way cool tutorial from almost makes perfect -game changer.

materials

plain cotton bag

sticky back foam sheets

craft knife 

fabric paint

foam brush

I decided on a simple triangle stamp so I cut out 4 equal size triangles from the self adhesive foam sheet. remove the backing and stick them together to create one thick triangle tower.

use the foam applicator to dab black fabric paint to one side of the triangle- do a few practice stamps on a sheet of paper to get used to the amount of pressure you need to apply.

once you feel confident you can start stamping your fabric. I didn't want perfect shapes (I quite liked the pattern with areas of less paint) but if you want solid shapes just re apply the paint to your stamp and carefully apply again. 

follow the manufacturer's instruction regarding drying time -once you're happy its ready you can take your new bag out for a spin!

I've used rubber stamps before but foam is so quick to cut you can try as many shapes as you like.. I'll definitely be making some more.

have you ever hand stamped fabric before?

back soon!

caroline x