How to Make Retro, Chic & Luxurious Handbags
Handbags are practical accessories. Not only do they offer a place to carry your necessities, but they also allow you to express your personality and your mood. Styles of handbags change over the years. Beaded handbags were the rage in the '30s and again in the '60s, with differences in style. The '70s saw a lot of bags adorned with tassels, mostly made from leather or denim. Retro handbags can be found in most department and specialty stores but can be costly. A great alternative is to create your own handbags. You can create handbags that are chic, luxurious and attractive. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Handbags
- Various embellishments
- Fabric glue
- Quilting thread or nylon thread
Instructions
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Gather a few used handbags. You may have some on hand that no longer suit your current style. Thrift stores and secondhand shops are great places to pick up various types of purses and handbags. Keep in mind what style you would like to create, and get something that will work as a good springboard for your desired look. Check the department stores, fashion magazines and catalogs for ideas if you don't already know what style you would like to create.
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Choose what type of embellishments will be needed. Beads are very popular for clutches and small evening bags. Buttons look great on patchwork styles and most denim bags. Tassels will help you achieve that retro '60s and '70s look. Some of these items you may have on hand. Others can be purchased at craft shops or department stores. Take your handbags with you when shopping for embellishments so you can hold the items next to the bag to match the color and style.
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Draw out a quick blueprint using your selected decorations and your handbag. Do not cut or begin crafting until you are certain of your design. Make changes on paper before you alter the bag or the trimmings into something you might dislike.
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Begin your alterations. All attachments that involve glue should be done first. Use high-quality fabric glue, following the directions including the suggested drying time. Use special leather glue when working with leather and suede.
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Sew any items on next. These will be items other than beads. Patches, buttons, sequins and tassels should be attached in areas that won't disrupt the function of zippers or other closures on the purse. Use quilting thread for durability. Strong nylon thread may also be used. Attach new handles at this time. Handles are subject to great stress, so if you have decided to use a length of chain for a handle, be sure to thoroughly reinforce the stitches.
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Beads should be the last items attached to the handbag. Measure the length of any strands you will be using and tie each strand off separately from the others. Tie a knot every few stitches when sewing beads directly onto the fabric of the purse. This will limit any unraveling that might occur if the beads get caught on something in the future.
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Tips & Warnings
Spot clean your used handbags before beginning this project. When attaching a leather fringe to a leather purse, use contrasting colors rather than attempting to match them.
Beaded bags should be handled with care because they can be quite fragile. Using thin, flexible jewelry wire for stringing can provide more durability than using thread or string.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Photo courtesy of sxc.hu/
