Make a Purse

Making a purse from scratch can be a lot of fun and show the world your creative side. This article will provide some general tips and guidance on making a purse from a pattern so you can have a beautiful handbag made just by you. Let's get started!

Steps

Planning It Out

  1. Decide upon the design. Search online for various sizes and styles. Google the phrase "Purse Pattern" or "Free Purse Pattern," and see what comes up. There are many free patterns available, but the pattern you choose will depend on several factors.
    • The size you need
    • Your level of sewing ability
    • The purpose of the purse. Practical? Fashionable? Matching an outfit?
      • If you don't find exactly what you're looking for online, try your local fabric supply stores.
  2. Purchase or obtain all needed supplies. Read the directions for your chosen pattern carefully and purchase all supplies before beginning. There's nothing more irritating than having to run out to the shop for a notion you overlooked earlier, but cannot continue sewing without.
    • When getting a fabric, make sure it's strong. Most purse patterns will require sturdy material. Thin, light weight fabrics are unsuitable for all but the smallest handbags.
  3. Organize your sewing area. You'll find it easiest and less stressful to work in a wide, clean environment. Clear any other projects you may have been working on to concentrate on this one.
    • Remove any liquids! A nice coffee stain on your fabric matches very few things.

Making Your Purse

  1. Cut the fabric. The old adage "measure twice, cut once" holds true in sewing as much as it does in carpentry. In sewing patterns, watch for things such as "cut on fold" or instructions such as "cut two from fabric and two from interfacing."
    • Pin the pattern to your fabric to make cutting a little more fool-proof and easier to manage.
  2. Assemble a basic purse. Follow the pattern instructions carefully. Generally the author has put this purse together several times before and can save you a lot of time and wasted effort by providing the best instructions.
    • Don't throw away your extra material! Keep it for a matching coin purse or second patchwork project.
  3. Pin or baste all seams before sewing. This will aid in assembly and ensure evenly spaced seams.
    • This makes a temporary seam that is easily removed and re-done if the purse does not look the way you want. This will save you a lot of time in undoing a more tightly sewn seam if things go wrong.
    • You can baste by hand or by machine, depending on your circumstances and what you prefer.
  4. Seal the seams. Remember that not all seams can be sewn by machine. You will have some hand work to do no matter which pattern you choose.
  5. Marvel at your handiwork. Now you can add any embellishments you like to make your purse your own.
    • Consider ribbons, flowers, or pins to give it a signature look.

Printable Pattern

Doc:Purse Pattern



Tips

  • Don't use cheap materials. Your new purse could easily rip or fall apart.
  • Wear a thimble when hand sewing so you don't poke yourself.

Warnings

  • Use caution with sharp tools, such as scissors, common pins and needles.

Things You'll Need

  • Fabric
  • Scissors
  • Needle
  • Matching thread
  • Common pins
  • Iron-on interfacing
  • Decorations
  • Sewing machine
  • Iron
  • Embellishments (optional)

Related Articles

  • Make a Paper Purse

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