How to Attach a Purse to a Frame
For a vintage look to a new handbag, select a frame that can be sewn onto fabric. It will include a clasp and rings for attaching a chain or fabric handle. Antique-look bags are often made from tapestry, taffeta, silk, or other luxury fabric, and they should be lined with a lightweight fabric. Embroidery, beads, and ribbons are often part of the embellishment. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Fabric pouch made of fashion fabric, preferably lined
- Vintage style handbag handle
- Air soluble marking pen
- Matching button and carpet thread or regular thread
- Tapestry needle
- Matching seed beads or silk ribbon for embroidery (optional)
- Chain, cord, ribbon, or other material for a handle
Instructions
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Select a purse frame with holes for sewing all the way around the opening of the bag. Such frames may be found on internet sources like madcraftgroup.com and umx.info, as well as other outlets for hobbies and pursemaking. A vintage store may sell antique handbags with the fabric in poor condition but the frame in perfect shape. Remove the old fabric and reuse the frame. Choices will include both gold tone and silver metals as well as antique finishes. Prices will vary according to the value of the metals.
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Choose the size of the fabric bag according to the size of the frame selected. Minor adjustments in the size of the bag may be made by taking a few gathering stitches in the top of the bag or adjusting the side seams of the pouch. Trace the shape of the frame on paper or on the bag itself with air soluble ink and use that pattern to fold the top of the bag to fit. Baste and press a hem around the raw edges of the bag.
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Hand stitch the hemmed and pressed edges of the bag to the sewing holes in the frame with thread that matches the fabric, using a double thread or button and carpet thread for greater strength. For a beautifully finished look, stitch a seed bead or a matching crystal over each hand stitch or embroider a tiny ribbon rose at the base of each stitch.
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Make an appropriate handle for a vintage-look bag from a chain, a metallic cord, a braided cord, or a reinforced ribbon. Attach the handle through the rings or slots built into the frame with rings or by sewing or tying. In addition to the handle, a vintage bag is often embroidered, appliqued, layered with lace, beaded or embellished in dozens of creative ways. Copy such priceless antiques or be inspired to create a whole new look for the handbag.
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