Totebags sure aint nothing new. Although; almost because of that reason, in itself; they've pretty much been the same forever. Similar to the traditional musette: totes are typically made of as few a pieces as possible & usually stitched-up as a flat rectangle, with a set-length strap. As is usually my way: I decided to approach the tote bag as a simple starting point, with a handful of simple improvements to make.

Firstly, with Totes (By Be) the bag aint flat- primarily because most things we carry: are not flat. The other reasoning for this, is that we are not flat, it doesn't really make much sense to me to be carrying round a flat bag full of 3d things. I had a couple other gripes with the classic tote too. The strap/s- even when a tote has two straps: they tend to suck. I've reduced my design to one strap, which is adjustable in length; ideal for switching between an almost-empty under-the-arm situation; to a pretty-packed across the shoulder deal! The other improvements I've always wanted to see, with tote bags, is an option to close & the ability to not lose my keys/phone in amongst its contents. I took about solving these issues in one swift motion of a pocket which extends out into a flap for the opening of the bag; closing via two popstuds.

One part of the classic tote, which I absolutely did want to keep, as a factor within my own design; is the big open space for artwork. I grew up working with my mom, printing t-shirts & this time in my life had one of the single biggest positive-influences on the direction of both my work & creativity. Print/graphics have a huge stake in my heart & hobbies, with the Totes (By Be) presenting the perfect medium to give a nod to such a special facet of my own life.

Keeping with this foundation of the Totes, it only seemed right to start them off with some of my own illustrations/graphics. Though, they sure as heck aint limited to my own work. Another driving part of keeping this artwork-space, is for collaborations! I've plenty of friends who produce incredible artwork, illustrations, graphics & as things get on, I'm hoping to offer you some very special, collaborative limited-runs; with some incredible locally-sourced creative talents!

Likewise, if you'd like to chat about working on a limited-run of Totes (By Be) for your own project; would like to talk collabs; or even distribution: please don't hesitate to get in touch via the contact page!