How I Made a Whimsical Boat Tote Charm
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Bag charms are having such a moment right now and honestly, I completely understand the obsession. They’re an easy way to make a classic bag feel a little more personal, a little more playful and a lot more you.
When I spotted these blue heart beads and vintage-inspired cat cameos at Hobby Lobby, I immediately knew they belonged on one of my boat totes.
Instead of buying an expensive designer charm, I decided to make my own.
What I Used
For this project, I kept it simple:
- A large gold screw lock keychain
- Gold jump rings
- Blue heart beads
- Pearl heart charms
- Vintage-style cat cameo charms
The fun part is mixing pieces that make you smile. There aren’t any rules! You could use seashells, initials, bows, tassels, lucky charms or anything that matches your own style.
Need a tote bag? Grab my fav, the Lands’ End 5 pocket tote bag HERE!
Putting It Together
I simply attached each charm with gold jump rings to the large keychain, spacing them out until it felt balanced. A pearl heart became the centerpiece, while the blue heart beads and little cat cameos added extra movement and personality.
In less than fifteen minutes, I had a completely custom bag charm.
Why I Love It
One of my favorite things about a classic boat tote is that it’s basically a blank canvas. I use mine as a purse, my needlepoint bag, a pool bag and even for weekend errands. Adding a handmade charm gives it just enough whimsy without changing what makes these bags so timeless.
And the best part? If I ever get tired of it (although I don’t think I will!), I can swap out the charms and create an entirely new look.
Sometimes the smallest projects end up bringing the biggest smile and this one has me looking forward to making a charm for every tote I own.
Looking for more craft ideas? Check out THESE BLOG POSTS!
More Boat Tote Charm Ideas
- Vintage lockets
- Needlepoint scissors charm
- Initial beads
- Faux pearls
- Ribbon bows
- Thrifted brooches
- Seashells from beach trips
- Tiny measuring tape or spool for sewing lovers
- Lucky horseshoe or four-leaf clover charms
Shop HERE for charms and more!
I’d love to know how you’d decorate your boat tote! Are you a pearls-and-bows person or do you love quirky vintage charms like I do? Tell me in the comments!
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- How I Made a Whimsical Boat Tote Charm
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