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No Pattern Used: 1 (Handbag) thumbsup - Type:Accessories
Review submitted in Handbag Contest Contest    printable version
Viewed 99 times 17 more reviews
Review rated Very Helpful by 3 people   
Reviewed by:BJ1400
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About BJ1400starstarstar
WV USA
Member since: 10/29/03
Reviews written: 164
Sewing skills:Intermediate
Favored by: 15 people
patterns reviewed: 146
Bio: more...
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Posted on:2/11/13 9:23 AM
Last Updated:2/11/13 9:26 AM
Project Photo:photo
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As is usual when I make a bag, I didn't go by a pattern. I had an idea of what I wanted and just started with a basic shape of a front and back with a 4 inch gusset. I made 2 inside zipper pockets and 2 outside zipper pockets. The finished size is 10 inches high and 12 inches wide. The strap is 2 inches wide and 24" long.

I used 2 upholstery fabrics that I got at Joann Fabrics on the “red tag” table when it was 50% off, so I paid probably $5.00 for the fabric. When I saw this fabric, I knew it would be great for a handbag. For the lining I used a black twill and the printed fabric for the pockets. I made one side of the bag the black print fabric with a gold pocket and the other side is the gold fabric with a black print pocket. I did this just to add a little extra something.

For the strap I used a 2 inch wide black webbing and then sewed a piece of the purse fabric on top of it. The reason I made the strap this way is the webbing gives it strength without the layers and bulk of interfacing. But by itself, it’s kind of plain, so I added the fabric layer. The 2 inch webbing is kind of hard to find, but I wanted it that wide since there’s only 1 strap.

I really enjoy making handbags. I'm pretty happy with how this one turned out, although I do wish I'd made it just a little bit bigger.

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5 Comments      Login to Add a Comment
Renren said...
How brave you are to strike out on your own without a pattern. Looks great!
2/11/13 9:18 PM
lynne1nor said...
Very nice! I just made my first bag with home dec fabric and actually think it works much better than heavily interfaced quilting cotton. Nice job!
2/12/13 4:27 PM
fourkid said...
Beautiful bag. The 2" webbing looks really nice with the coordinating fabric strip. I agree with Renren - to do this without patterns is so brave - and you totally succeeded in making a beautiful purse..
2/15/13 4:55 AM
Aroura said...
Very lovely bag, great job doing without a pattern!
2/15/13 10:28 PM
Juanita47 said...
great job - love the fabric
2/22/13 8:45 PM
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