I’m so glad to be flexing my crafty muscles again. Between my thesis, job, and making scrapbook layouts, I haven’t had the time for other projects.
Late last year, I was planning my outfit for a holiday party and my dress needed a new purse. Serious. Right before we headed to my parents’ place for Thanksgiving, ABM published this envelope clutch tutorial. A new craft project plus my mom can help me? Score!!
I followed the tutorial but made a few changes which I’ll outline below.
Supplies
Instead of using two separate colors, I decided to go all black. The faux leather at the fabric store was very flimsy. I had much better luck in the upholstery section and found this woven black vinyl.
Even still, I didn’t think the vinyl would be stiff enough to hold its shape as a purse, so I purchased enough to double-layer it.
I also picked up some thick black thread. ABM calls for waxed thread but I found it unnecessary.
I couldn’t find a cute closure. Instead I got a regular purse magnetic closure, plus a cute button to glue on top (hence the tube of glue).
Sewing Away
I followed the tutorial pretty closely. It was difficult to get the two layers of my purse to line up as I was sewing it, but I decided to keep sewing and I’d trim it later.
After it was all done, I trimmed away all the excess showing, then went over the seams with a Sharpie so the grey underside wouldn’t show (I know, classy!).
My mom and I attached the purse closure under the flap. Then I glued the pretty button to the outside.
Taking it for a Spin
I’m glad I double-layered it. It would have flopped all over the place if I hadn’t. I might have been able to get stiffer material at a different store, but I’m happy with the result.
The bag held a small wallet, lipstick, and my phone with room to spare!
Here it was on the big night — it matched perfectly!! I loved it so much I took it out to lunch the next day.
Envelope Clutch DIY: click here for the full tutorial from A Beautiful Mess