Tote Totes Tote

I've always loved totes and how versatile they are. They're easy to pack stuff to and easy to carry around. Furthermore, you can customize them most of the time. 

I've started customizing my tote bags 2 years ago, when I bought a few plain totes from Muji and one from Daiso, that was when they were still selling them! During that time, stamps were not made available at the Muji stores for the purpose of customization. This I bought loads and loads of fabric markers and crayons and various fabrics to try and patch something together. 

I made three different tote bags, two using fabrics and one drawing x quote in my then horrible (or maybe still horrible) handwriting. 

I still carry then out and over the 2 years, I've been collecting totes. I probably have more than 10? They really are the easiest to match up with clothes and the best kind of bags, besides the backpacks, for school! 

So when school was just about to reopen, I decided to search for a different tote bag for the last last last semester of my third year. I didn't want just yet another cloth tote, I wanted something different. Something that looked solid. 

And when I stumbled onto Gsews on Carousell, I fell in love. 

She provided customised tote bags, both cloth and PVC leather and even crocodile faux leather?? 

(Just a glimpse of what she has) 

Besides that you can also customize the inner lining, and even get name stamping done! 

Bombarded with so many beautiful bags, I was spoilt for choice. I originally wanted a dark pink inner lining but she was out of stock and there were some, actually many questions I had about the bag design. Besides, you gotta know what you're buying into right? 

Gsews was so patient with me, answering all of my questions. I felt a little bad like, "Ask so many questions, later she pissed off how??"

Instead, she took the time to respond to my questions, promptly! Like really, she was replying me the next minute I sent out my question via the chat function on Carousell.

I finally decided on the bag design that I wanted, a Classic + Tote because a normal one would be too small. (I'm well known for overpacking every single day of my life? So a + would be fab). She promised the goods to be delivered within 2 weeks. 

(My tote up for sale now heh)

Along the way, I found her Instagram and found a post where she just started on name stamping. I immediately chatted her up and requested for name stamping too at an additional $2! I mean, since you're already customizing it.. Might as well right? You can also choose to add pockets and compartments if you wish to! (: 

So from there I anticipated the arrival of my wonderful tote bag. 

And when it arrived I was elated. I ripped the package open in delight and was pleased!! My tote bag looks amazing!

Although I requested a pink/white fabric for my name stamping, Gsews presented me instead with a tie-dye like material for my name and it looks amazing!! 

My tote is classy on the outside and totally cute on the inside ;)

After admiring it and I was close to throwing the packet, I noticed that it was still heavy. I fumbled and found..

A PENCIL CASE. At first I was worried, like OMG did she accidentally send me someone else's order??? I then opened it and it revealed the prettiest floral inner lining ever and a note that thanked me for my purchase, and also stated that I was her 100th customer! 

Thus the gift.

 I was overwhelmed with joy!! I don't just like it - I LOVE IT. Because, everything - from the bag to the pencil case - was all hand seen by the beautiful lady behind Gsews. And it wasn't some crappy handiwork, it was impressive! 

I am so happy with my tote so thank you Gsews for providing me with a bag with your wonderful talent that I have always been too lazy to pick up. 

Do check @Gsews out on Instagram and Carousell if you're looking for a tote or even a gift! Or maybe a laptop case/pouches as she does create them upon request! :-)

and don't tell me you're not on Carousell. Even my 50+ year old uncle is on it. 

[btw this wasn't an ad I was just sharing my amazing experience, good things should be shared, no?]