Looking for a fun and vibrant way to personalize your own tote bag? In this DIY project, I’m sharing how I combined techniques I recently learned from a class taught by my talented friend Tracy Weinzapfel to create a custom watercolor-inspired design using Artesprix Sublimation Inks. I took those creative watercolor techniques and transformed them into a one-of-a-kind sublimation design that pops with color on an Artesprix sublimation tote bag. Whether you’re new to sublimation or looking for fresh inspiration, this project is a perfect blend of art and function—let’s get creative and make something beautiful you can carry with pride!
You do not have to be an artist to do this! All you need is the ability to let yourself go and see what you can create. I share tips in the new video that help me create this and allow myself the freedom to just let it go.
Here is a look at watercolor image before I added in the black outlines with the Artesprix black sublimation marker.
The black sketched outline really makes it all pop and come together. Keep in mind that sublimation inks do not show their true colors until they are heat pressed for the full time and temperature. Once pressed, you will see those colors brighten and become vibrant.
Supplies for Custom DIY Watercolor Design Sublimation Tote:
- Artesprix Sublimation Tote
- Artesprix Sublimation Markers
- Artesprix Sublimation Inks – 0.5 fl. oz. or 2 fl. oz. (new larger size!)
- Artesprix Protective Paper
- Artesprix Heat Tape
- Artesprix Protective Pad
- Royal Talens Mixed Media Paper 9″ x 12″ pad (also available in 5.5″ x 8.5″ size pad)
- Dynasty Paint Brush
- Paint Puck
- Painters Tape
- Heat source – I used a Siser 9″ x 12″ Heat Press
- Other supplies: pencil, scissors, paper towels, copy paper, ruler, wet wipes, paper towel, silicone mat
Watch this tutorial HERE on the Artesprix YouTube channel.
I’m completely hooked on crafting with Artesprix products—every time I use them, my creativity sparks and fresh project ideas start flowing! Combine using Artesprix with your cutting machines or just allow yourself to play all on your own. There are so many possibilities.
I would highly recommend just playing around and see what you create, but if you just don’t feel comfortable drawing freehand, you can always set up your cutting machine to sketch with a pencil too.
Here is a sample I did using a mechanical pencil using a Flower Sketch design.
Since it is pencil, it is harder to see. Here is a close up of this sketch flower design.
Since pencil does not transfer to the sublimation blank, I’m not worried about the drag marks, but you could adjust and play with settings to get it just right if you wanted. When using pencil, keep in mind that it will dull quickly, but you can always send it back through again as long as you do not unload the cutting mat.
Sketching with your machine can be done with any pen, marker, pencil that can fit in the pen adapters. Find more resources on sketching with Silhouette HERE and all about sketching supplies HERE.
This hand drawn design was inspired by Tracy Weinzapfel and her amazing talent as an instructor. I am so glad I signed up for her Fresh Start in Art 5 Day challenge when I saw it.
Check out more of my Artesprix sublimation creations HERE.
I’ll be sharing more so make sure to follow Artesprix on social media to see more projects!
YouTube channel
Blog
Facebook Page
Iron-on-Ink Inspirational Facebook Group
Save this for future reference by pinning the image below.
Grab some Artesprix sublimation products and get to creating today!
Enjoy !
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