The Showcase Magazine - Articles


Custom Beach Bags


By Lauren Holstein








As the summer sun begins to blaze, it's time to gear up for beach days with style and personality. What better way to do so than by hosting a beach bag painting party in the comfort of your own home? Whether you're a seasoned artist or just looking for a fun and creative activity, here's a step-by-step guide to help you make it a success.

Invitations:

Start by sending out invitations to your friends and family. Let them know if they need to bring their own canvas tote bags or if you'll be providing them with their blank canvas. Encourage them to think about their design ideas beforehand to ensure a smooth painting process.

Materials:

Gather all the necessary materials for the party. You'll need paintbrushes of different sizes and acrylic paints in assorted colors. Optional supplies include stencils, sponges, and felt markers. It would also be nice to provide a hard surface area for all your guests to paint on the day of the event along with small water buckets and paper towels so they can wipe off their paint brushes between colors. Don't forget to insert a piece of cardboard into each tote bag to provide a smooth painting surface.

Getting Creative:

Once everyone has arrived and settled in, it's time to unleash your creativity. Whether you're an experienced painter or a novice, there are endless possibilities for designing your beach bag. 

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  1. Seashells and Wave Patterns: Embrace the summer vibes by painting seashells, waves, or even a simple sun on your tote bag. These motifs will instantly transport you to the beach with every glance.
  2. Repeating Patterns: If you're new to tote bag painting, consider starting with a simple repeating pattern such as stripes or checks. These designs are easy to execute and can add a playful touch to your bag.
  3. Handprint Art: Get the kids involved by encouraging them to create handprint art on their tote bags. Have each child dip their hands in paint to create colorful prints or use their thumbprints to make shapes or animals. It's a fun and messy activity that will result in a one-of-a-kind keepsake.

Handling Wet Bags:

After the painting is complete, you may encounter the challenge of transporting wet tote bags home. To prevent smudging or smearing, consider laying the bags flat in the trunk of your car or placing them in a plastic bag to keep them separate from other items. Once home, allow the bags to air dry completely before using or storing them.

Hosting a beach bag painting party is a fantastic way to kick off the summer season with creativity and flair. Whether you're painting solo or with a group, the possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing your tote bags. So, gather your supplies, gather your friends, and let the artistic fun begin!