How to Make a Victorian Metal Frame Purse

Capture the essence of past days with a Victorian-style purse.

Once carried by wealthy men and women, the Victorian metal-framed purse dates back as far as 1400. The Victorian-style purse became increasingly popular with time, showing up in retail stores in the 19th century. With their ease of wear, the metal-framed bag was the perfect carry-along given its lightweight material and kiss-lock closure. Recreate a similar style in no time, making it to the desired needs of the recipient.

Things You'll Need

• Sewing machine
• Needle and thread
• Iron
• Scissors
• Pins
• Metal/fabric glue
• Screwdriver
• Kiss-lock purse frame
• Ruler
• 1/2 yard of fabric
• 1/2 yard of lining fabric
• 1/2 yard of sew-in interfacing
• 1/2 yard of fusible interfacing
• 1/2 yard of cord or ribbon

Instructions

1. 

   A pattern can provide guidance and structure to the design.

   Draw the pattern of the purse by placing the metal frame on a piece of paper. Trace around the metal frame, marking the place in which the purse hinges. Mark a spot 1/4 to 1/2 inch outwards from the frame hinges. Design the desired shape of the purse, extending the drawing from the two marked points. Ensure that the purse can be filled by drawing the pattern from these two points. Create a symmetrical design by folding the pattern in half. Cut the pattern from the paper.

2. 

   Select a fabric that will match the design and style of the metal frame.

   Cut two patterns for the fashion fabric, two for the lining, and two for each type of interfacing. Iron the fusible interfacing to the inner side of the fashion fabric, completing this step for both pieces. Mark the place of the hinges at the top and sides of the fashion fabric. Sew the fashion fabric pieces together, with the seam on the innermost side of the bag.

3. 

   The kiss-lock closure is a signature of the Victorian-style bag.

   Mark the hinges at the top and sides of the sewn-in interfacing and lining pieces. Place the interfacing and lining together with the two pieces of lining facing one another. Sew the outer side of the pinned pattern while leaving a 2-inch open gap at the bottom.

4. 

   Create a flawless appearance with the use of a sewing machine.

   Turn the sewn fashion fabric bag with the correct side facing outward. Place it within the lining with the desired outward facing sides facing one another. Sew the fashion fabric to the lining at the top sides. Pull the fashion fabric bag's right side through the gap within the lining. Hand sew the bottom of the bag closed once this is complete.

5. 

   Oftentimes messy, metal or fabric glue will keep the purse together.

   Glue along the one inner side of the metal frame purse. Insert the fabric purse at the top edge of the metal glue-covered frame. Use a screwdriver to push the fabric fully into the frame. Repeat this action to the other side of the bag.

6. 

   Carry the purse with ease with matching ribbon or cord.

   Attach a cord or ribbon handle to the provided loops on the metal frame. Close the frame securely completing the Victorian metal-frame purse.

References

• Make a Metal-Frame Purse