Coolest Tote Bag Ever

The Akanbe Tote from Japanese Modern DesignThis felt tote bag caught our eye because it had a hip modern design and a dual purpose. It folds out into a blanket. How cool is that?? Seriously, you can go on a picnic and don’t have to bring a vanload of stuff—you’ve got the basket and blanket all in one. It’s Japanese, a brilliant remnant from last week. What will they think of next to make my life easier?

Here is the Akanbe Origami tote description in their own words: “This soft felt basket has a cute face, but it’s much sturdier than it looks. Made from a single sheet of felt, it folds up into a convenient, portable tote bag/basket, perfect for storing magazines and toys. Open it up and you can use it as a playmat; when you’re ready to go, simply fold and button its eyes.”

The Akanbe Origami tote is $86 and like so many of the cool Japanese products we featured last week, not cheap. Being the ever practical Classic I’m left wondering whether I can pop this bag in the washing machine. I mean let’s face it, my boat tote bags look pretty bad after awhile so I imagine the same would happen to this guy. I know a few Funs are wondering this same thing too maybe even the Smart Structures and Organic Structures. It’s made of felt so I’m betting that at least it’s dry cleanable … which might rule out fastidious, practical folks from wanting to use it for picnics (Funs and Classics.) Although, you guys just might keep it spotless anyway!