How to Make a Patchwork Purse

Make your own patchwork purse

Making a patchwork purse is similar to making a patchwork quilt top but takes much less time and effort. This is a quick project that you can do in an afternoon.

Things You'll Need

• 16 fabric squares measuring 4.5 inches
• Lining fabric measuring 16.5 x 8.5 inches
• Strap fabric measuring 2.5 inches x desired length + 1 inch
• Sewing machine
• 8-inch zipper
• Needle
• Thread
• Iron

Instructions

1. Assemble the fabric squares in a desirable pattern and sew (right sides together) to make one piece of patchwork fabric that has two columns and eight rows of patchwork squares. Sew the squares together using a 1/4 inch seam allowance. Iron all of the seams open.

2. Lay the patchwork fabric piece on the backing piece and sew right sides together all of the way around except 2-3 inches at the top. Iron all seams open and turn right-sides out. Iron again. With the needle and thread, sew the open area closed, trying to make small, unnoticeable stitches.

3. Make a strap by folding the cut fabric in half lengthwise and sewing right sides together leaving a 1/4- inch seam allowance. Turn right-side out and iron. Turn 1/2 inch of each end under and sew to the seams of the purse to attach the strap.

4. Attach the zipper by pinning it in place and sewing it on with the sewing machine. Add any desired embellishments, such as buttons, ribbon or decorative stitching.

Tips & Warnings

• -To give the purse a fuller look, add a layer of quilt batting in between the patchwork side and lining. Then, quilt along the seam edges around each square.

• -If you do not want to use a zipper, you can add a half circle flap to the top of the purse before sewing the front and lining together. Add a circle of ribbon to the very top while sewing and a button to the front of the purse for a way to close the purse.

• It is difficult to turn the strap right-side out. You can pin a safety pin to one end with a piece of yarn and a large object (such as a key) hanging from it. Work the large object through the strap and pull it through.

References

• Kids Sewing Projects: Patchwork Tote Bags

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish