How to Make a Backpack Purse

A backpack purse is a great way to carry all the little things that you need throughout the day.

A backpack purse is a great way to combine the utility of a backpack with the portability and style of a purse. You can create a backpack purse using an old backpack and bits of ribbon for a one-of-a-kind look. If you have a backpack that you have loved literally to bits, then this is a great way to continue to enjoy and use it.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Backpack
• Scissors
• Large yarn needle
• Thin ribbon (1/2-inch width or less)
• Thick ribbon (1-inch width or more)

1. Cut out the front pocket from an old backpack. Make sure that you cut out the entire pocket, including the back. If you prefer a long, thin purse, then you can use a side pocket instead, but a front pocket usually is best for this project.

2. A wrap stitch literally wraps around the edges of two pieces of cloth.

   Use the thin ribbon and the yarn needle to wrap-stitch across the bottom of the cut-out pocket. If you accidentally cut the bottom of the pocket, then this will seal the rips. It also adds some color and decoration to the bag. If you want, you can edge the entire bag with small wrap stitches.

3. Cut two small holes in the top of the pocket. They should be located on either side of the pocket toward the top. These holes are the end points of your shoulder strap, so keep them as small and even as possible.

4. Measure a length of thick ribbon out for your shoulder strap. The ribbon can be as long or as short as you want, but make sure that it will position the bag at a comfortable level on your arm.

5. Knot the ribbon inside the holes in the pocket so that the knot is on the inside and the ribbon is flowing out of the hole and around to the other side. Now you have created your shoulder strap.

Tips & Warnings

• If you like, braid several colors of ribbon together for a more colorful, thicker shoulder strap. You can decorate your backpack purse with glitter paints or patches to make it even more eye-catching.

Resources

• Visit MakingFriends.com for an assortment of backpack crafts.