How to Attach a Purse Frame to Make a Coin Purse

Purses constructed using a frame are generally very structured.

Purse frames are most often used in conjunction with small purses, like clutches, handbags, and coin purses. Often associated with the ladylike handbags of the 1950s and 1960s, their construction is both elegant and functional. Purse frames create a structured bag with a polished or fanciful embellishment, as well as providing a secure clasp for the bag. Purse frames can be purchased in rounded and square shapes, as well as a variety of finishes, from metal to wood. Many are intimidated by purse frames, but they are actually fairly easy to work with, especially if you have prior purse-making experience.

Things You'll Need

• Purse frame
• Heavy-duty fabric glue
• Lined purse, tailored to fit your frame
• Pointy object, such as scissors
• Iron

Instructions

1. Construct a purse according to desired specifications. The top edge of the purse must be tailored to follow the lines of the purse frame, with approximately 1/2 inch extra in seam allowance prior to sewing the purse. The easiest way to do this is to tailor the purse pieces to the lines of your purse frame before sewing. You can also cut the edge of a pre-sewn purse to match the lines of the frame, then restitch them.

2. Glue inside the channel of one side of the purse frame -- the narrow lip inside of which you will be pushing the purse. The channel should be almost full of glue to ensure a firm grip on the fabric. Let the glue rest for 15 minutes.

3. Meanwhile, apply a thin strip of the same heavy duty fabric glue along the top edge of one side of the purse. Use caution to avoid smearing the glue on any other portion of the purse. Let this glue rest for 15 minutes as well.

4. Gently work the top edge of the purse into the purse frame, starting with one hinged end and working your way across the frame. Use the edge of the scissors or other pointed object to press the material into the frame channel.

5. Flip the purse over and check the opposite side of the frame edge to ensure the purse lining on the side you just did is fully inside the frame as well. Use the scissors to stuff any errant pieces inside the frame channel.

6. Repeat the process on other side of the frame, gluing then stuffing the material into the frame channel.

7. Allow the glue to dry fully before using.

Tips & Warnings

• Your purse should be padded and lined to ensure it is thick enough to fill the frame channel. You can also create an unpadded bag using a heavy fabric such as canvas or velvet to ensure the bags layers are thick enough.

• If you are worried about getting excess glue on the rim of your purse during the gluing process, consider taping the edge with masking tape. Press the tape firmly onto the fabric or the glue may leak under the edges of the tape and absorb into the purse material.

• After the glue dries, trim any dried glue that may have seeped out from under the edge of the channel using pointed scissors or a razor blade. Take care not to scratch the purse frame or cut the purse fabric.

References

• U-Handbag: Purse Frames De-mystified
• Craft Passion: Handmade Frame Clutch Handbag