Swing It: the new Keecie Tote Bag

 

Why a tote bag?

It had been on my mind for a long time. I wanted to add a proper leather tote bag to the Keecie collection. I often carry a small Keecie bag myself, alongside a linen bag for a book, a cardigan, or a water bottle. That needed to change. And so the idea for a new bag was born, with no fuss and no compartments because they just make the bag heavier.

 

 

But don’t you already have the Day Dreamer?

That is correct. We love that bag. Its clever pockets, zip, and smart layout make it perfect for anyone who likes to keep everything organised. But sometimes you just want simplicity. You want a bag where you can throw everything in and go, without any hassle. That is what we set out to create.

 

 

From first sketch to creation

Like every Keecie bag, the Swing It started with a sketch, or actually, many sketches. How big should the bag be? How long should the handles be? Which proportions feel right? How do we make a bag that appeals to both women and men?

 

 

Next comes our favourite part of the design process, the paper model. Using cardboard, scissors, and tape, we make a prototype. We fold, try, and feel. Will a laptop fit? A book? How does the bag sit on your shoulder? It might sound old-fashioned, but nothing beats holding a model to check if it really works.

 

 

Then comes the most exciting moment, the screen print. For the Swing It, we chose a subtle, hand-drawn print of the white indigo plant, crossing elegantly over the inside of the bag. We sketched, experimented, and then there it was, just right.

The drawings then went to our leather workshop in Poland. After that, we had to wait. As always, it was a little celebration when the first leather sample arrived. We felt it, smelled it, and tried it. I always test new bags thoroughly to see if any adjustments are needed, until everything is perfect.

 

 

A tote bag with a twist

The Swing It is made of four pieces. The bag has a wide opening and a sturdy base, so it stands nicely when you put it down, and it fits surprisingly much inside.

 

 

Light and flexible

We deliberately did not add pockets, zips, or extra compartments. The reason is simple. That would just make the bag heavier. The idea was a light bag that stays supple even when filled. It does have a handy loop with a hook so you can easily find your keys or a pouch with a loop, like the Dream On for your valuables, without anything getting lost at the bottom. 

 

 

Where does the name come from?

We named it Swing It because you can swing it so nicely over your shoulder. Seriously, try it. That perfect swing as you toss it over your shoulder is addictive. We could not think of a better name.

 

 

Unsure about the colour?

We understand. Choosing colours is tricky, especially online. That is why you can always request free colour swatches from us. We are happy to send them to you.

 

 

The Swing It is for you if you:

• like carrying a small bag but sometimes just need more space
• are done with that extra linen bag
• want a bag that adapts to your day and not the other way around
• are a fan of simple design with a special detail
• know that quality leather is an investment that lasts for years