What would You like on your Purse?
Can you help me? I have a Question… Over the last year I have been tossing an idea around in my mind. (Actually I toss a lot around in there but that’s another story…)
I am going to Up-cycle some beautiful purses and bags. They are quality brands that I have collected and restored.

My dream is to provide another life for these bags by painting designs on the. I hope they will be loved again and perhaps be even more cherished as art pieces. The illustrator/artist in me has been yearning to do a bit more painting lately. That spurred this idea; ‘Repurposed-Repursed‘.

RePurposed – RePursed:
Each one will be a one-of-a-kind art piece. I’ve done this often for my loved ones, but I knew what would make them smile (or sometimes cry)
Now my question is; what would you just love to see on your bag? This is a question of ‘Surface Design’, trends and images that are always well received.
Here’s some of what I’ve painted already to give you an idea of the possibilities;
Pets and Flowers are always sentimental but I want to be more unique.
Please comment below and let me know. I would really appreciate your feedback, who knows, maybe I’ll paint your idea!
I am hoping to pop them into my Etsy store or a local Artist Co-op Store.





















Hi Barbara
How about a cute meerkat they are adorable. Maybe a moon gazing hare or a cute bunny.
I think your examples are brilliant I wish I could paint so well on leather. In all honesty I am more interested in Needle Felting as I’ve tried Leather work and it’s really not for me.
Love n stuff
Debbie Mellor
Catalina Macaw. Your art is awesome I think you have 0 problems coming up with ideas. 🙂
Wow, that’s quite specific! They are very beautiful and colourful! I sense it’s your fave! Yup, ideas are very plentiful but it’s the decision making that can be the challenge.
I like the variety- so people can choose what they love. Any marine animals going on these like an octopus, whale or shark? Or even little clown fish? I’m a sucker for marine animals. Beautiful work! I love all of your creations. You are very talented!
Thanks! I never thought of that; perhaps it’s due to the fact we are freezing here right now! I do have a sweet water blue purse…
Hi Barbara
Your paintings are gorgeous. Personally I like abstract designs like your wonderful waves (or stratas) and your &Co.
Carry on being so creative
This does help a lot. Thanks, I was quite mesmerized at the lovely designs found in rock formations! I was playing on the ‘Tiffany-like’ theme but need to be careful of copyright. Sometimes the design is all about colour!
wouldn’t suit me, but a lot of people are into Frieda Kahlo. I’m also thinking of designs like Van Gogh’s pictures, or some of the other masters.
I have seen the Frieda art but for some reason it seems odd to me. Maybe I’m too traditional. I’ve gone to a Van Gogh exhibit where the art is projected onto the walls for intense immersion. It really gives you a sense of the texture and brushwork!
Here’s a great story (on the subject) My colleague from the Art College was actually one of the artists who painted each of the frames for the animated ‘Loving Vincent’! What an achievement and body of work that is! If you have a chance; take a look!
Wombats and Koalas. They are both having a hard time existing right now. I always love big fat bumblebees on anything. I adore all your creations. .You are such a versatile artist. You always have another surprise for us❤️
Forest theme, snail, mushrooms, animals, greenery.
Hi Barb
I would be happy to have any one of these beautiful designs.
I love art deco…maybe some kind of this type.
My friend is a non representational artist….Frances Thomas….have a look at her work.
Giant flowers I.e. peony are beautiful.
I an excited to see what you come up with.
Karen
Dear Barb,
I would like a handbag with an unrealistic design in two colors at most, but not with geometric patterns. But I’m very conservative.
Take care, you are wonderful!
Zdena
Thanks, I often wonder if designs should be subtle as that allows less visual chaos. Do we want to stand out or blend it?! Hmmm…
Hi, Barb.
I’m not drawn to the cutesy stuff. My favorite decoration of the purses you’ve shown is the mineral layer/geode design. Patterns found in nature draw my attention. You have done projects with scenes of woods and hills. I think either a realistic depiction or an abstract representation of a grove of trees would look good.
Thanks, Phyllis
I agree. As much as I loved my pup I try to stay true to my teachings at art college. I know it’s a big question as the general public’s interests are quite vast! Trees are one of my most favourite subjects as I spend so much time looking and dreaming, not to mention painting…