How to Make a Small Shoulder Purse

It's easy to make bags with contrasting fabrics.

Making small shoulder bags can be simplicity itself. A small, tasteful shoulder bag meets the need in situations calling for no more than a wallet, passport and keys, These bags are quick to stitch up so a number of them can be produced in a few hours. They can be made from funky quilting material for casual wear or luxurious silks and velvets for evening wear. Sizes, shapes and materials can be varied, as can the degree of embellishment.

Things You'll Need

• 1/2 yard material for the purse
• 1/2 yard material for the lining
• 7-inch zipper
• Matching thread
• Sewing machine
• Upholstery cord
• Beads, cording or other embellishments

Instructions

Making the Bag

1. Purchase a 1/2 yard of material and some complementary lining material. Investigating other bags is a source of inspiration for materials. Woven Guatemalan fabric is good for casual wear. Stamped silk is always elegant. Ultrasuede has a soft, but sturdy feel to it. Heavier woven material is good if using the bag every day. Also consider getting some materials to trim the bag.

2. Cut the lining material and the purse material so that they both measure 20 inches by 8 inches. The cut purse material can be embellished with beads, smocking stitches, contrasting material, or left as is.

3. Put the lining material on top of the purse fabric with the right sides facing in. Stitch the long sides together, leaving the short sides open. Press the seams open and turn.

4. Fold the rectangle of material in half with the lining side out. When folded, it should measure 10 by 8 inches. Stitch the long sides together, leaving a 5/8-inch seam allowance.

5. Determine how long the shoulder strap should be, add 2 inches, and cut. Tuck one strap end between the lining material and the purse material on the open end, and stitch the shoulder strap in place with a 1-inch margin. Repeat on the other side. Upholstery cording, braided ribbon, and crushed velvet in contrasting colors make elegant straps.

6. Pin the closed zipper upside down on the open edge, working with the lining side facing out and aligning the zipper tape to the edge of the material. Stitch in place. Open the zipper and repeat on the other side of the zipper tape. Turn the bag so that it faces right-side out and the lining is on the inside.

Tips & Warnings

• Check out craft fairs and web sites showing homemade bags for ideas.

• Vary the dimensions of the bag.

• Try making shoulder straps from the same material as the bag.

References

• Threads: Sewing in a Zipper

Resources

• Better Homes and Gardens: 10 Simple-to-Sew Totes and Purses