I wanted to challenge myself on this next project. The only rule was I couldn’t make a single purchase from start to finish and still had to create a usable and pretty item. I decided on a small clutch bag since I didn’t have the energy to delve into making a big tote bag. I would get extra points if I repurposed an item or incorporated an odd material. Mind you, I’m also the one doing the final judging and score tallying. Safe to say I’ve got this one in the bag (zing!).
Front of clutch
I dug through my drawers of fabric and found a piece of light colored fabric that would be large enough to make the basic structure of the bag. After a quick rummaging through my odds-n-ends bin, I found a few cute appliques that could add some interest. I found an old date book from 2010 that was made of a great navy reptile embossed cardboard. I cut off the back and attached it to the front of the fabric. I ended up using the thin black lining of an old skirt to line the inside of the clutch. I hate flimsy clutches, so I added a layer of cardboard in between the lining and the back of the bag. After a few passes around the ol’ Singer, I was happy with the clutch’s structure. It ended up being an envelope style. I had some hook and eye closures in my sewing bin, so they worked perfectly to keep the top closed.
Back of clutch, which gets some much needed some interest from a bit of embroidered lace.
I chose the best appliques from my pile and hand stitched them onto the fabric. The bag measures 9inches by 6inches and is about 2.5 inches deep. Its the perfect size for leaving the house with just the bare necessities or if your Kindle needs a new home while in transit.
Inside of clutch. Added the extra lace bit to cover the seams.
All things considered, I’d give myself high marks on this one. I didn’t buy anything, ended up reusing items destined for the dustbin, and am happy with the final product.
See what you can make with just your leftover goodies! -Olivia
LivSplendidly 