How to Make Handmade Purses
There are several different techniques for making a purse by hand. You can use a cigar box, plastic place mats and lanyard, a button-down shirt or even woven candy wrappers. If you are a novice sewer, it's wise to start with a very basic project.
Things You'll Need
- Scarf
- Ribbon
- Scissors
- Needle
- Thread
- Ruler
- Straight pins
- Colored pencil
- Iron
Instructions
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1
Choose a scarf that is the width you want your purse to be. A long rectangular scarf works best because you will be folding it in half lengthwise to make the body of the purse.
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2
Start with the reverse side of the scarf facing up (if the scarf is the same on both sides, either will do). You will sew the body of the purse inside out so that the stitching won't be visible on the outside. Fold the scarf in half, the fold will be the bottom of the purse. With a colored pencil and a ruler, draw a line down each side, 1/4 inch in from the edge. This will be your guide for stitching. Pin into place.
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3
Sew the sides of the purse following the guidelines. You can use a machine or sew it by hand. If you choose to hand sew, make sure your stitches are small, evenly spaced and straight.
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4
Keeping the purse inside out, draw a line across the top, 1/4 inch down from the edge. Fold over the top of the fabric along this line, making sure to keep the edge straight and the fabric flat. Fold once more (the way you would fold down the top of a paper lunch bag). Pin into place and then stitch. This is the opening of the purse so be careful not to sew the front and back together---go around the top.
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5
Cut two pieces of ribbon to the length that you want for the handles of your purse. Measure 1/2 inch in from the side seams and mark with a pin on the top edge. This is where you will attach the ribbon. Pin one piece of ribbon onto the top left edge, folding under 1/2 inch at the bottom of the ribbon where it will sewn onto the body of the purse, pin the other end to the right edge. Turn the purse over and do the same with the second piece of ribbon. Stitch the ribbon very securely into place.
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6
Remove all the pins and turn your purse right side out. Iron the seams so they are flat, and you're done.
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Tips & Warnings
Choose thread that will blend in with the pattern and color of the scarf. Add embellishments like a brooch or rhinestones for a little extra sparkle.
