Button Monogram Back to School Tote

My contribution is this great ombre monogrammed tote bag. 

This project is perfect to send your daughter back to school, give to the teacher, or, heck, give one to yourself as a special treat for mom!

If you’re intimidated by dyes – don’t be! The instructions on the RIt Dye website are clear and easy to follow. 

No matter what type of dye technique you are looking for, I would be willing to bet it is on their site. So grab your dye and a handful of buttons, and let’s get crafting!

Step 2: Trace Your Monogram

I traced a letter stencil onto my tote with a pencil. Use the first initial of whoever you’re making this tote bag for!

Step 3: Glue the Buttons

I then glued orange buttons into the letter shape using fabric glue. Just let your glue dry, and you are ready for school!

Your tote bag is ready for gift-giving or carrying your books. Maybe you don’t like the monogram idea? Add an apple or any other shape in buttons – let your imagination run wild!

FAQs

Want to know more about making this monogrammed tote bag? I’m happy to help! Please leave any more questions in the comments down below. 

What dye techniques can you use on this tote bag?

While I chose an ombre effect for my tote bag, there is no shortage of creative dye ideas for you to try!

Other fun ideas include shibori, ice dye, and color blocking. For more unique ideas, check out all of the Rit Dye techniques here. 

How can I make this tote bag more unique?

One of the best parts about this DIY tote bag is the unlimited options for customization! Whether you’re making the bag for yourself or as a thoughtful gift, you can make fun swaps based on personal preferences. 

To make this tote bag ultra-personalized:

• Use your favorite color combination.
• Try different fabric dye techniques.
• Include interesting buttons in a range of shapes and materials.
• Choose fun stencils in different shapes or letters. You can even spell out a name or phrase!

Is fabric dye machine-washable?

Have an accidental spill in your school bag? No worries!

Rit Dye fabric dyes are absolutely machine-washable. Simply follow the wash instructions of your tote bag, keeping in mind its material. Both warm and cold wash cycles will keep your dye in place.

Find More Button and Dye Inspiration

• Buttons Galore Blog
• Laura Kelly Designs
• Laura Bray 
• Scrappy Chick
• Mel Designs
• Ribbons and Glue

More Crafts

Have a hankering for more button craft ideas? I have plenty more for you to try!

• Button Wreath Ornament
• Vintage Button Sign for Fall
• Button Flag Tray
• Fall Tray You Can Make with Buttons
• How To Make A DIY Clock With A Button Frame

Total Time 35 minutes minutes

Button Monogrammed Tote Bag

My button monogrammed tote bag is a cute and simple DIY – perfect for back to school! Customize it with your favorite Rit Dye colors and fun buttons for a unique, personalized tote.

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Equipment

• 1 Pencil

Supplies

• Fabric glue
• Buttons
• 1 Rit Dye dye kit
• 1 Tote bag
• 1 Letter stencil

Instructions

• Dye your white tote bag using the instructions from the Rit Dye website.
• Trace a letter stencil onto your tote bag using a pencil.
• Glue buttons in the shape of your stencils with fabric glue.

Tried this project?tag us to show off your work!