How to Design Women's Purses
Designing purses allows you to customize your handbag for your personal style and needs. Purses are made of basic, geometric shapes, making them an easy option for from scratch sewing. You will need access to and an understanding of how to use supplies like heavyweight interfacing, lightweight interfacing, snaps and clasps, and a sewing machine that can handle multiple layers of heavy fabrics.
Things You'll Need
- Sketchpad and pencil
- Freezer paper, newsprint or pattern tracing paper
- Ruler
- Fabrics
- Heavyweight interfacing
- Lightweight interfacing
- Snaps, clasps or zippers
Instructions
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1
Sketch out your purse design. Think about purses and bags you like, in terms of shape, size and structure. You may even want to measure the approximate size of a favorite purse or two when designing purses.
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2
Design the inside of your purse. Pockets, key fobs, and organized storage can make your purse much more user friendly and practical. Consider what you typically carry as you design purses. If you are designing purses to sell, think about what most women carry.
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3
Draft your pattern. Once you have your purse design in place and a rough idea of measurements, draw out your pattern on your pattern tracing paper or newsprint. Be sure to allow 1/2 inch on each side for seam allowances.
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4
Write up basic instructions as part of your purse design. While this may seem unnecessary, if you want to make the purse you've designed today again, it can be quite helpful. Include the types of interfacing and fasteners used and when they should be applied.
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5
Cut your purse design from your inner and outer fabrics. Be sure to interface all of your pattern pieces for a professional look. Choose heavyweight interfacing for a structured bag or lightweight interfacings for a more casual and floppy appearance. Finish any pocket edges and apply to the lining. Assemble your purse design into a finished and usable purse that you will enjoy for years to come. Consider making a matching notebook cover, planner cover, or wallet to go with your purse design.
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Tips & Warnings
Choose durable and sturdy fabrics for your purses, especially larger everyday bags.
Keep size in mind. A bag that is too big or too little will not get used.
Resources
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Comments
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Shannon Phillips
Jul 20, 2010
Hello, my name is Shannon & I'm a 33 year old handicapped woman & I'm always home being bored most of the time. & I have decided to design my own purses for people who have trouble snapping or zipping to close their purse. I have very little use of my left hand so I would need help at times. So my qiestion to you is that is it o.k. for me to draw out my idea purse & let someone make them? I really would love to hear your imput on it. Because I would really love to get started.
