The Mali Tote was designed by The Weave Lab. We designed both the fabric and the handbag simultaneously. We used a process called engineered Jacquard which allows the fabric for the tote bag to come off the loom in one full piece. This unique zero-waste manufacturing process literally creates not a single scrap of fabric when the handbag is manufactured. Additionally, both the outer linen velvet fabric and the inner cotton/nylon lining fabric were woven by upcycling 100% leftover yarns. These are the small quantities of yarn that every custom weaving mill naturally accumulates. Each Mali Tote saved 2 lbs of yarn from going to waste. The yarns that were upcycled to make this bag came from the same mill that wove the fabric.

This handbag was manufactured in a small-batch limited-edition run and is heirloom quality. The Jacquard cut and loop pile linen velvet is exceptionally strong and durable. It will acquire a beautiful patina with use – any small marks or crushing are to be expected and are inherent to the beauty of this style of woven fabric. Resist the urge to handle this special fabric with kid gloves – it’s upholstery grade.

The Mali Tote was designed to be convertible by clever placement of a few extra snaps and the 2 small leather tabs at the top of the bag. There are several different ways you can wear it, please study the photos to learn how to create each different style.

100% designed and made in USA: The Mali Tote was designed by two American textile designers. The fabrics were woven by a mill named MTL in Pennsylvania. The tote bags were made by a handbag manufacturer named Baikal in New York City.