Sewing a Purse out of an old blouse

by Julie Larsen--Vintage Sewing School
(Nacogdoches, TX)

1. Find an old blouse or skirt that you like the print on.

2. Figure out what size you want to make your purse. This can vary depending on size of clothes. For example you can make a 12 inch by 12 inch purse.

3. If you are using a blouse and it buttons down, keep the buttons closed and cut out your 12 x 12 (will use this size for our example). The bottom of the blouse will actually be your top since it already has a hem that is sewn up.

4. You will need to put the pieces right sides together and sew around the side and bottom part of the bag leaving the "hem area" open to be the top of the purse.

5. You may need to add some extra stitching around any button opening at top to hold it closed. (You can also open the purse with the buttons if you so desire or sew this area closed--it is up to you.)

6. Now we need purse handles. I tried to make purse handles out of my blouse, but that wasn't really strong enough. I suggest you find a stronger fabric such as corduroy or heavier material type or purchase some handles already made to attach. I used corduroy fabric for my example. I just measured how long I wanted it and made it about 2 inches wide and cut it out.

7. If you are making handles, you will need to sew them right sides together and turn them or you can put wrong sides together and put a decorative type stitch to hold the handles together (as the stitching will show). If you are not making handles, see next step.

8. Once you have your handles ready, then you attach the handles at the sides.

9. Optional Pocket--You can add pockets to the purse during the initial cutting out phase--cut out pockets and attach to front/back of purse before stitching the purse together.

10. Your purse is now ready to use.

11. I had to draw out my purse on a paint program. I hope this is good enough for a photo for now.