Using Fat Quarters for a Purse

I made myself a cute Journey Purse the other day!

A while back I had purchased a really cool packet of fat quarters - Retro Boho from Studio e.  So I decided to use 5 fat quarters to make my purse (there was a little left over for other bags, too)!  Scraps of favorite fabrics could also be used the same way!

Add Trim to Your Purse!

You know you really would like some ball fringe or fringe on that new purse!  Here's how to add it easily.

These instructions are specifically for my Zippy Crop Tote pattern, but also translate easily to my Reversible Bookbag Tote or Zippy Tote.  You can also adapt them to lots of other patterns out there!

Secret Weapon #3 - Clothespins!

Clothespins help the glue set.

Did you know you can use clothespins for other uses (other than holding clothes on the line and keeping potato chip bags closed)? They are indispensable in my sewing room.

Cheap, wooden (or plastic) clothespins are ideal for holding glued fabric together while it sets (5 minutes). For the bottom corners of purses, I simple pinch the entire bottom corner (from the inside) and clamp with the clothespins. Don’t leave them longer than 5 minutes or you may glue a clothespin to the purse!!

How to Make a Fabric Basket

Just in time for Easter!

Make these cute Reversible Fabric Baskets out of Jellyroll strips!

I made mine out of some jellyroll strips (I got in my "scrap bag" at Island Quilters) - it only takes 11 strips to make 2 baskets.  These are perfect for your desk to hold the mail, for your dresser to hold hairbrushes or makeup, or for your kid's small toys!  

You can even make it out of fat quarters (18" x 22") - just cut the pieces 9" wide (instead of 10").  You'll get 2 baskets out of 2 fat quarters.  Of course we've all seen sets of these - adjust the cut sizes smaller or bigger to make a set!

How to Make an Adjustable Strap

Some of my purse patterns include an adjustable strap (Adventure Bag, Mimi Messenger Bag, Lizzie Purse) but a couple of my patterns which could take an adjustable strap don't include the instructions. So here's a free tutorial on how to make an adjustable strap for any purse pattern that has one strap!!

The Sheila Purse & Joey Purse have a long strap which I use cross-body or as a shoulder strap.  But you can use these instructions to make a longer strap that can adjust!  In my patterns, it works for these 2 purses or for the Travel Purse or even the Jamie Purse!