All items by Toots Totes

Carefully created unique handmade fabric handbags

Hello, I'm Ruth Overton. My nickname as a child was 'Ruthie Toots' which is how the name 'TootsTotes' originated.
I come from a family of artists and artisans and there's nothing I like more, than to sit at my old treadle machine, handed down to me, through the family having been bought by my Grandad for Grandma in the 1930's.
More recently I have turned my attention to designing and creating bags and 'Toots Totes' began.
It's all about the creative process...
Figuring out designs and sourcing the textiles, the embellishments and the fastenings is half the fun!
The other half is being able to use Grandma's old 1930's treadle sewing machine to put it all together-most therapeutic with its rhythmic treadling to and fro action...
This year I’m particularly focussing my attention on a new venture: Toots Totes Revamp, where I am turning preloved to reloved tired vintage wood, wicker, straw and rattan bags by adding new embellishments and linings. Making existing items pretty, practical, lovable and functional once more, using less of the world’s resources and creating unique one-off pieces to enjoy!
Have a little look around and see if there’s anything you like or contact me to make something special - just for you!​

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