NOW this was a fun project!
Not only because I got to make a new handbag to hold all my fun spring things (i.e.
Aprils #12monthsofDIY challenge was to give new life to a thrifted item.
Best of all, it gave us an opportunity to go shopping TOGETHER, which rarely happens.
For this month the material could be anything we could find at Value Village for under $25.
So this is definitely a topic we feel passionately about.
Since wed only recently made over a furniture piece, we decided to stay away from the furniture section.
Looking at all the rows of apparel, we were inspired to upcycle some old, unwanted clothes.
Replacing a zipper can be costly and besides, the style was pretty dated.
With right sides together, sew the base piece of the bag to the front and back pieces.
Ensure to fold up the base of the bag as shown.
Turn right side out.
Attach the zipper to the handbag pouch.
Start about 1 from the seam and sew straight along to about 1 from the other seam.
Repeat with the other zipper side making sure zipper aligns properly.
Fold the top of the zipper tape under and stitch in place.
Its best to do this step before attaching the lining.
Stitch along the cut side of the leather strips for a nicer finish.
With right sides together, sew the front and back lining pieces together along the sides and base.
Leave the bottom open/unstitched for about 4.
Attach the lining to the leather bag by stitching together along the opening and clean finishing the zipper tape.
Turn lining into the bag and stitch 4 opening at bottom of lining closed.
shut the zipper and voila!
Your one-of-a-kind 100% genuine leather purse is complete and ready to use.
But for a little variety, well be using the rest of the leather to make a simple clutch.
Or you’ve got the option to use any extra fabric to make theseDIY leather cord organizers.
And when youre done, add a personal touch to your new bag with theseresin leaves purse charms.
Tips for sewing leather:
1.
Avoid unnecessary stitches as each stitch creates a hole in the leather.
Too many stitches weakens the leather and can cause it to tear.
Using a pressor foot helps guide the leather along without damaging the surface.
Leather has no grain line!
So feel free to cut patterns in any direction.
What great pieces have you found at a Value Village or other thrift store?
