army tarp » by elke

Army Tarp Travel Tote

When I found this old canvas jeep cover, I couldn’t yet imagine what it would turn into. The more I paired it with the bright warm colors like yellow, orange & sometimes, clean, white stripes the more versatile it became. The options & combinations were limitless. All colors seem to compliment this neutral tan fabric. I made shortish handles using leather bridle reigns, popped the inside in bright contrast canvas colors & the patch pocket on the front is perfect for holding plane tickets. When I came up with this long rectangular shape I was picturing it used to hold a computer & essentials while running through an airport. It feels & is a sturdy bag that is fully machine washable when the straps are removed. (*if your trying to guess what those bright straps are that hold the body together, you’ve guessed correctly if you said , Martial arts belts!)

Painted Canvas Clutch

The fabric for this clutch is made from an old army tarp. Add some bright canvas, paint some stripes, sew in a zipper, add a leather tab….Wa-La!

Army Tarp Clutch

Yesterday I posted about a tote bag made out of an army tarp. Here is the clutch version sporting all the same details as the tote down to the fishing lure attached to the zipper.

Once I Was an Army Tarp

I found this amazing fabric canvas at an outdoor flea market. While everyone was poking through tables of costume jewelry I head straight for a gentleman who was selling outdoor gear. I felt like I hit the jackpot! I was able to get 2 nice tarps from him that were used to cover a part of an army truck. The canvas weave is super tight & it’s not too heavy. The fabric by itself was very military looking & I just kept thinking bright white was the perfect compliment to the neutral color of the canvas & the leather. The lining is 100% linen with 2 pockets.

When all was said & done & it was hanging on my wall in my office, I just kept thinking something was missing. needed just a pop of color. The following week at an antique show I found some old, bright orange, fishing lures. Wa-la! They were meant to be together. Stay tuned for the matching clutch….