What You Carry

​Making these bags was a multi-step process. First they all needed to be washed (and the natural ones went right into the dyer) The other ones went from the washing machine to the dye-bath where they enjoyed extended time in hot water with a mix of blue and black dye to approximate the Payne's Grey color I use in my other work. I packed them in the dye bath rather than letting them circulate so that there would be dye inconsistencies leading to a "textured" look. The heat got turned down and they rested overnight (this is mostly so that it is more comfortable for me to handle them when wringing out the dye). These then go into the washing machine (with a double rinse) and then the dryer. Now that the bases are all covered the printing process can begin. Because of their shape, each bag was needed a three-phase print. One broad side would be individually printed, left to dry, then the other broad side would be individually printed, left to dry, and 

within similarity of humanity. It is my hope for peace. Each brushprint is done with focused attention, which Simone Weil identifies as prayer. I hope that as you use these to carry your books and towels, food and water, you feel connected to your place in this cosmic experience. 
These 100% cotton totes are offered in two sizes, 3 gallon and 13 gallon and two colorways "First Light" and "Twilight." The three gallon easily holds three books and a water bottle. Whereas the double-handle 13 gallon holds groceries for the week! Or multiple beach towels, lunch, and sunblock. I look forward to seeing how you use these portable art offerings! 
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Available Here. 

​then the bottom would be individually printed, and left to dry. Once all of the bags were printed they went back in the washing machine and dyer to ensure color-fastness. When promptly removed from the dryer the bags are not overly wrinkled, but the handles are, so to the ironing board they went. At this point they were finally ready to be documented and offered for acquisition. I wanted to share all the steps of this process so that you would know just how much time and attention goes into making these unique objet d'art.
Additionally, I love bags! To the point that it is a running family joke if I come home with a new one "Oh you got a bag?! How surprising!" Delivered with maximum sarcastic inflection. So to me it makes sense to print this pattern on bags so that others can use them for carrying all their essentials. This "Prayers for Friends and Strangers" pattern illustrates the variety