From LLBean to Steele, New Englanders are famous for (among other things) their opinions on tote bags.  No matter how many times I’ve been asked to design tool bags, I always come back to the humble tote. The flexible shape means you can carry more than just tools (eg., books, clay pots, boots) and not just on a job, but to the library, market, or beach.  There’s something so irresistible about owning a bag that carries you through life and work. A bag doesn’t need to be over-engineered just because it’s for work.

Using classic American cotton duck, premium tanned domestic leather, we are thrilled to debut two carriers in collaboration with the extraordinary seamstress and leathersmith, Cody Nowell.  Hand sewn in her New Hampshire studio, Cody’s talent with rugged materials and pattern architecture, honed through years sewing custom sails, tents, and apparel, are among the reasons why we cherish cottage industry production over mass production.

The No. 2 Tote is designed after a vintage bag I reached for everyday when living in New York City.  It seemed only fitting to name it for the subway line I took to work, where seemingly daily someone inquired about its provenance.   It is the perfect space savvy bag to carry daily essentials with room to spare.   Cody and I made a few tweaks to the original, making it a much more durable, all weather bag with an organic canvas lining, leather bottom, and riveted handles.  It’s the only tote I’ve ever carried from meetings at the Guggenheim to the back 40 to collect seed.

• 100% cotton duck,  natural leather handles and bottom, copper rivet

• 16 inches  x 4 inches x 14 inches

• Lovingly patterned and sewn in New Hampshire