Farideh came into the test kitchen with a bouquet of what looked to me, like lily pads. She placed them on my work table and said, “These are nasturtium leaves. Wash ‘em and do something with them.” I looked down at them in confusion. 

“Like…a salad?” I asked. 

“Sure,” she said.

Okay, so not salad. How does a tote bag sound!? 

This is a stupid easy and inexpensive craft you can do for any occasion with any leaves, paint color or blank surface (i.e. napkins, pillow cases, or t-shirts). I used this blank tote which is on the smaller side, but perfect for a quick trip to the farmer’s market. 

T <3 

 

~*~ NASTURTIUM LEAVES TOTE ~*~

MAKES: 1 TOTE ⎪ LEVEL: EASY

Mise en Place 

nasturtium leaves  

plain tote bag 

green craft paint (acrylic or fabric) 

paint brush  

——————————

1. PAINT THE LEAVES

Place a leaf on a piece of newspaper, cardboard, or parchment paper (you don’t want to ruin that beautiful hard-wood table). Turn the leaf over so the veiny side is facing up. Dot paint around the leaf, then bush the entire surface. 

---

*NOTE* You can paint a thin or thick layer of paint for different results. Practice on another surface to see what amount of paint looks best. 

——————————

2. PRESS ON THE TOTE

Turn the leaf over, paint-side down, and carefully place anywhere on the tote bag. Place a paper towel over the leaf to prevent paint stains. Then roll over the leaf using a rolling pin or glass bottle to transfer the paint onto your tote. 

——————————

3. WEAR

Remove the leaf and discard. Repeat this process with however many leaves you like! Hang the tote to dry for 15 minutes. Use it as a grocery shopping bag, bring it to the farmer’s market, or use it as a purse. Clean in the washing machine on a regular wash and dry cycle.