This is the latest post in the Product Profile series, where I provide more details about a product in the Something Different Upcycled lineup than you’d find in the shop listings or on the tag in person. This week, we’re focusing on Basic Totes. Look for these at Homemade Community Shoppe in Chilliwack, BC or in the Something Different Upcycled Etsy shop.
Why do you need this?
These Basic Totes are made to carry big things: I was thinking specifically about leeks and baguettes and other items from farmers’ markets that tend to be a bit unwieldy. We’re all about reducing our reliance on single-use plastics, so skipping the veggie bags in favour of a Basic Tote is an easy swap.
These aren’t much wider than Something Different Upcycled’s Basic Totes, but they are quite a bit deeper. They’d also be great for craft and art supplies, kids’ school stuff, outdoor clothing, or a beach trip.
They’re simple – no pockets for things to snag on – and are totally machine washable. Perfect for groceries or messy things because our Basic Totes can be washed after each use.
Their relatively slim profile makes them ideal for public transit too since they take advantage of vertical space without being bulky around the middle.
What are their measurements?
Each of the bags is approximately 35.5cm wide by 48.25cm tall. There is a 10cm wide base on the bottom. The handles are 3.8cm wide with a 30cm drop, which makes them useful even during jacket season.
What are they make of?
Cotton and cotton blends. Each bag is made of a different, thrifted and/or upcycled, fabric of varying weights. All are machine washable. Hang to dry to avoid shrinkage, ideally inside out in the sun.
Why did I make these?
I found that I sometimes needed a bag that was a bit deeper than standard tote bags, but no wider. I didn’t need a giant oversized beach tote or some other bag with a huge opening. So I decided to make these to answer that need. The first one was a bit of an experiment but I ended up using it so much, even just for weekly grocery trips, that I decided to make more and offer them to you!
How do they compare to Something Different Upcycled’s Everyday Totes?
A few things are similar: the handles are the same width and the construction process is roughly the same. After that, they are totally different. Basic Totes are bigger, have boxy corners instead of rounded ones, and have no pockets or linings. They are truly basic, with no bells or whistles. Just a practical, functional, washable, reusable tote bag, that just happens to be made of thrifted/upcycled fabrics.
Which do you prefer: the Basic Tote or the Everyday Tote? Let me know in the comments below or send me a message. If you have one or the other (or both!), tag me on Instagram! I love to see how you use your Something Different Upcycled items.