DIY Tote Bag with Lace Appliqué

2 min read September 13, 2026 Carrie Waller
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Do you ever wish that you could get even more out of a roll of lace trim? All too often those gorgeous patterns and intricate details are lost in the mix, but we've come up with a work-around. With this earn how to use scissors, glue, and a plain tote bag to make the most of individual lace flowers. The elegant finished product is a lot easier to pull off then you'd think!

 

Project Time
30 to 40 min
Difficulty
Intermediate
Step
1

Cut individual shapes and flowers out of the rolls of lace. Use different types of lace trim to achieve variety and dimension in your finished design.

DIY Tote Bag with Lace Appliqué step 1
Step
2

Lay the cut lace shapes front side down on a flat work surface that you don't mind getting messy, such as a piece of scrap plastic or a washable, non-porous countertop. Squeeze small dots of glue on the lace, and then use your fingertips to spread the glue evenly over the back of the lace. Since the glue will dry clear, you can be messy. It's okay if the front of the lace gets glue on it.

DIY Tote Bag with Lace Appliqué step 2
Step
3

Gently lay the glued lace shapes and flowers glue side down on a canvas tote bag. Again, it's okay to be a bit messy since the glue will eventually dry clear. Once done laying your lace shapes on the bags, allow the lace to fully dry for 3-4 hours (or overnight to be safe) before handling or filling the bags with supplies. We love the idea of using these pint-sized decorated totes as travel toiletry and beauty bags, but feel free to get creative with how you use your own finished bag!

DIY Tote Bag with Lace Appliqué step 3

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