15 Easy Steps: How to Make a Purse

Crafting a stylish purse from scratch can be a rewarding and fulfilling endeavor. Whether you’re a seasoned seamstress or a novice crafter, creating your own unique accessory offers a chance to express your creativity and add a personal touch to your wardrobe. This comprehensive guide will lead you through each step of the process, from selecting materials to finishing touches, so you can create a one-of-a-kind purse that perfectly complements your style.

To begin, gather your materials. You’ll need a durable fabric for the exterior, such as canvas, leather, or vinyl. For the lining, choose a softer fabric like cotton or silk. You’ll also need notions like thread, needles, and a zipper or other closure. Once you have your materials, determine the size and shape of your purse. Sketch a rough design on paper to visualize your creation and calculate the fabric requirements.

With your materials and design in hand, it’s time to cut and sew. Start by cutting the fabric pieces for the exterior and lining. Carefully stitch the exterior pieces together, leaving an opening for the zipper or closure. Next, sew the lining pieces together and insert them into the exterior. The final step is to add the zipper or closure and any decorative elements, such as embellishments or straps. With patience and creativity, you’ll soon have a beautiful handcrafted purse that will turn heads wherever you go.

Choosing the Right Fabric

Selecting the ideal fabric for your purse is crucial to ensure durability, style, and functionality. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed choice:

Understanding Fabric Properties:

Property	Description
Weight	The thickness and density of the fabric, influencing its strength and drape.
Texture	The feel and surface characteristics of the fabric, including smoothness, roughness, or woven patterns.
Durability	The ability of the fabric to withstand wear and tear, abrasion, and fading.
Flexibility	The fabric’s ability to conform to different shapes without creasing or losing its form.

Fabric Options:

Natural Fabrics:

Cotton: Breathable, soft, and affordable, but may wrinkle easily.
Linen: Durable, absorbent, and wrinkle-resistant, but can be stiff and more expensive.
Leather: Luxurious, durable, and ages beautifully, but requires care and maintenance.

Synthetic Fabrics:

Polyester: Wrinkle-resistant, water-resistant, and affordable, but can feel less breathable.
Nylon: Lightweight, water-resistant, and durable, but may snag or pill.
Faux Leather: Resembles leather, but more affordable and animal-friendly, though may not have the same durability.

Consider Your Needs:

Determine the intended use of your purse to guide your fabric choice:

Everyday Use: Durable, stain-resistant fabrics like canvas or nylon.
Evening or Occasions: Luxurious fabrics like silk, satin, or velvet.
Travel: Lightweight, water-resistant fabrics like ripstop nylon or canvas.

Sewing the Purse Sides

Now that the fabric pieces are cut and interfaced, it’s time to sew the purse sides together. Here are the steps:

Take the two side pieces and place them right sides together. Pin the edges together, making sure that the raw edges are aligned.
Sew the sides together using a 1/2-inch seam allowance. Start sewing at the bottom of the purse and sew up to the top edge. Repeat this process for the other side.
Trim the excess fabric from the seams. To do this, use a sharp pair of scissors to cut away the excess fabric, leaving a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
Turn the purse right side out. The purse should now have two finished sides.

Tips for Sewing the Purse Sides

Use a sharp needle and thread. This will help to prevent the fabric from tearing.
Sew slowly and carefully. This will ensure that the seams are strong and durable.
If you are having difficulty sewing the fabric, you can use a thimble to protect your fingers.

Seams
Seam Allowance	Thread Type	Needle Size
1/2 inch	Cotton or polyester	80/12

Creating the Handle

The handle of your purse is what you’ll use to carry it, so it’s important to make it sturdy and comfortable. You can use a variety of materials to create a handle, including leather, fabric, or rope.

To create a leather handle, you’ll need a piece of leather that is about 1 inch wide and 18 inches long. Fold the leather in half lengthwise and stitch the raw edges together. Turn the leather right side out and fold it in half again, this time widthwise. Stitch the raw edges together to create a loop. Attach the loop to the sides of the purse using rivets or Chicago screws.

To create a fabric handle, you’ll need a piece of fabric that is about 2 inches wide and 18 inches long. Fold the fabric in half lengthwise and stitch the raw edges together. Turn the fabric right side out and press it flat. Fold the fabric in half again, this time widthwise, and stitch the raw edges together to create a loop. Attach the loop to the sides of the purse using rivets or Chicago screws.

To create a rope handle, you’ll need a piece of rope that is about 1 inch thick and 18 inches long. Braid the rope and then tie the ends together to create a loop. Attach the loop to the sides of the purse using rivets or Chicago screws.

Handle Options

Material	Advantages	Disadvantages
Leather	Durable, stylish	Can be expensive
Fabric	Inexpensive, customizable	Not as durable as leather
Rope	Sturdy, nautical	Can be uncomfortable to carry

Adding a Lining

To add a lining to your purse, you will need a piece of fabric that is slightly smaller than the exterior fabric. Cut the lining fabric to the same size and shape as the exterior fabric, and then place the two pieces of fabric right sides together. Stitch around the edges of the fabric, leaving a small opening for turning. Turn the purse right side out through the opening, and then stitch the opening closed. To secure the lining in place, you can handstitch or topstitch around the top edge of the purse.

Tips for Adding a Lining

Use a lightweight fabric for the lining, such as cotton or silk.
Make sure that the lining fabric is slightly smaller than the exterior fabric, as this will help to prevent the lining from bunching up.
When stitching the lining in place, use a small stitch length to help secure the lining.
To add a professional touch, you can topstitch around the top edge of the purse after securing the lining.
Consider adding a pocket or two to the lining for extra storage space.

Lining Fabric	Stitch Length	Topstitching
Cotton or silk	Small	Yes

Installing a Closure

The type of closure you choose for your purse will determine the steps involved in installing it. Here’s a detailed guide for installing common types of closures:

Zipper

1. Pin the zipper along the top edge of the purse, with the teeth facing inward.
2. Sew the zipper in place using a zipper foot.
3. Press the seam allowances open.

Magnetic Snap

1. Mark the desired location for the snap on both the purse and the flap.
2. Attach one half of the snap to the purse using a needle and thread or pliers.
3. Attach the other half of the snap to the flap in the same way.

Button or Toggle Closure

1. Mark the desired location for the button or toggle on both the purse and the flap.
2. Sew the button or toggle in place using a needle and thread or a sewing machine.
3. Create a loop for the button or toggle by sewing a small piece of fabric or leather to the opposite side of the closure.

Drawstring Closure

1. Cut two pieces of cord to the desired length.
2. Thread one end of each cord through a grommet or hole in the top edge of the purse.
3. Knot the ends of the cords together.

Lace Closure

1. Cut a piece of lace to the desired length.
2. Thread the lace through two grommets or holes in the top edge of the purse.
3. Tie the ends of the lace together.

Twist Lock Closure

1. Mark the desired location for the twist lock on both the purse and the flap.
2. Attach the male part of the twist lock to the purse using screws or a needle and thread.
3. Attach the female part of the twist lock to the flap in the same way.

Embellishing the Purse

Add a touch of personality to your purse with these embellishments:

1. Appliqués and Embroidery

Sew on colorful patches or embroider intricate designs on the fabric to create a unique look.

2. Beads and Studs

Attach beads or studs in different shapes and sizes to create a glamorous or edgy effect.

3. Buttons and Charms

Add decorative buttons or charms with meaningful symbols or patterns to personalize your purse.

4. Sequins and Rhinestones

Embellish your purse with shimmering sequins or radiant rhinestones for a touch of sparkle.

5. Tassels and Fringe

Add vibrant tassels or fringe to the straps or edges of your purse for a bohemian or playful feel.

6. Ribbons and Lace

Incorporate ribbons or lace in delicate patterns or solid colors for a feminine and elegant touch.

7. Flowers and Feathers

Attach artificial flowers or feathers to the purse for a whimsical and eye-catching effect.

8. Fabric Paint and Markers

Personalize your purse by painting or drawing unique designs or patterns using fabric paint or markers.

Technique	Materials	Difficulty
Appliqués	Patches, fabric glue	Easy
Embroidery	Thread, needle, embroidery hoop	Moderate
Beads and Studs	Beads, studs, pliers	Easy

Adding a Shoulder Strap

Now that you’ve completed the basic construction of your purse, you can add a shoulder strap for added convenience and versatility.

Materials

For the shoulder strap, you will need:

Two pieces of webbing, cord, or fabric (1 inch wide and 18-24 inches long)
Two O-rings or D-rings
Needle and thread

Instructions

Attach the O-rings or D-rings to the top corners of the purse. You can sew them on securely using the needle and thread.
Measure the length of the strap you want and cut the webbing or fabric accordingly. You can adjust the length later if needed.
Fold the ends of the strap over by about 1 inch and stitch them in place. This will create the loops that will attach to the O-rings or D-rings.
Insert the loops of the strap into the O-rings or D-rings and pull them through. Make sure the strap is securely attached.
Adjust the length of the strap to your desired comfort level and tie a knot or sew the ends together to secure it.
Now you have a purse with a detachable shoulder strap, making it easy to carry over your shoulder or by hand.

Tips

Here are a few tips for adding a shoulder strap:

Choose a material for the strap that complements the style of your purse.
If you’re using webbing, you can burn the edges to prevent fraying.
You can add beads or other embellishments to the shoulder strap for a personalized touch.

Caring for Your Purse

To keep your purse looking its best and extend its lifespan, follow these care tips:

1. Clean it regularly. Depending on the material, use a damp cloth, mild soap, or leather cleaner to gently wipe down the exterior and interior of your purse. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the material.

2. Protect it from moisture. In case of spills or rain, dry your purse immediately with a clean cloth. Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause damage, especially to leather or suede.

3. Store it properly. When not in use, store your purse in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. To prevent dust accumulation, wrap it in a dust bag or keep it in a drawer.

4. Organize it. Use purse organizers or compartments to keep the contents organized and prevent clutter. This also helps reduce stress on the seams and handles.

5. Avoid overloading it. Carrying excessive weight in your purse can strain the straps and damage the zippers. Distribute the weight evenly and avoid overloading it to keep it in good condition.

6. Protect it from scratches. Keep your purse away from sharp objects or rough surfaces to prevent scratches or damage to the material.

7. Repair it promptly. If you notice any tears, broken zippers, or other damage, have it repaired as soon as possible. Ignoring minor issues can lead to more significant problems.

8. Deodorize it. To eliminate unpleasant odors, sprinkle baking soda or place a dryer sheet inside the purse overnight.

9. Clean the lining. If the lining becomes dirty, use a lint roller or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove dust and debris.

10. Use it with care.

Your purse is a valuable accessory. Handle it with care and avoid actions that can damage it. Avoid dragging it on the ground, prevent exposure to extreme heat or cold, and do not overstuff it or use it as a heavy-duty carrying bag.

By following these care tips, you can keep your purse looking beautiful and extend its lifespan for years to come.

How to Make a Purse

Making a purse is a great way to express your creativity and add a personal touch to your wardrobe. With a few simple materials and a little bit of time, you can create a one-of-a-kind purse that is perfect for any occasion.

Here are the steps on how to make a purse:

Gather your materials. You will need:
- Fabric
- Thread
- A sewing machine
- Scissors
- A ruler or measuring tape
- A zipper (optional)
- A button or other closure (optional)
Cut out the fabric. The size of the fabric will depend on the size of the purse you want to make. For a small purse, you will need a piece of fabric that is about 12 inches by 18 inches. For a larger purse, you will need a piece of fabric that is about 18 inches by 24 inches.
Sew the sides of the fabric together. Fold the fabric in half, right sides together, and sew the sides together using a 1/2-inch seam allowance.
Insert the zipper (optional). If you are using a zipper, insert it into the opening in the side of the purse. Sew the zipper in place using a zipper foot on your sewing machine.
Sew the bottom of the purse. Fold the bottom of the purse up by 1 inch and press it. Fold it up again by 1 inch and press it again. Sew the bottom of the purse in place using a 1/2-inch seam allowance.
Add a button or other closure (optional). If you are using a button or other closure, sew it to the top of the purse.
Turn the purse right side out and enjoy your new creation!