Color Study Hand-painted Zip Tote by Merle Works

About this tote: Merle Works artist/founder Dallas Hlatky writes, "The best part of being an artist is the feeling in the studio, of endless possibility and boundless color. This hand-painted Color Study Tea Towel brings a bit of the artist with it wherever it goes." Each color is painted and labeled with the artist's hand, never screen printed. As such, there will be some variation in each tote, which is part of what makes them so special. This 12 oz. heavy weight zip-top canvas bag is a great large carryall for every day, for tasks, or for shopping. Custom zipper pull with 25" canvas handles. Squared-off bottom. Reinforced at stress points. Size: 19"W x 15"H x 5"D, 25" handles

From Liz: While exploring artists whose work I'd want to carry at Three Bird Layne, I came across Merle Works, specifically a video of the artist creating her wares in her studio and explaining the story behind why she began to create this line of work. Her work is infused with what I most love about being an artist - the joy found in the process. As I unpacked each bag, tea towel, and pair of socks in my first order with Merle Works, I could feel that joy through the colors and care brought to each item. Plus each tag includes a little poem/magic message from the artist.  

More about the artist: Dallas Hlatky founded Merle Works while parachuting out of life as normal. It was invented as a personal salve for an anxious time, and built to be a reliable, renewable source of joy for all who find it. It nurtures human connection, a love of language and color, and a spirit that anything can happen. It makes for inspired, intentional giving and receiving. Dallas says, "All the goods are hand-dyed by me. I source all the products and test drive them for quality. I don’t make anything I wouldn’t personally use. All the accompanying “magic messages” are written by me too, clipped and collaged at my kitchen table."