Make a Placemat Purse
Do you have an awesome-looking placemat that you think would make a great purse? If so, then all you have to do to make a cool new purse is to fold up the placemat, sew it together, and add a strap to it -- along with any other decorations that you think would make it look even more unique. All you need is a placemat, a needle and thread, and a bit of creativity.
Steps
- Gather your placemat and sewing supplies.
- Fold the placemat in half. The fold will become the bottom of the purse.
- With right sides facing each other, sew the side seams together by hand or sewing machine. Try to sew along the very edge of the placement.
- Turn the bag right side out. Stitch the side seams together by hand or sewing machine again. Again try to get closes to the edge as possible. This creates a sturdy double stitch.
- Attach two straps, made of ribbon or scrap cloth, to the top of the bag.
- Design! Add buttons,sparkles and anything else you want!
Tips
- Add pockets to the inside or outside of the purse, in various shapes or sizes, with contrasting fabrics.
- Add beads, buttons, bows or sequins.
- Stitch the pockets to the placemat while it's still flat -- BEFORE you stitch up the sides. Sew very neatly -- the stitches will be visible on the outside.
- Plan ahead, and use a pencil or tailor's chalk to mark out the positions of the pockets for a mobile, keys etc. If you're experienced at sewing, you could even add zips to the pockets.
Things You'll Need
- Reversible placemat
- Scissors
- Needle
- Matching thread
- Common pins
- Ribbon
