DIY: Clutch

As I mentioned Friday, I was hoping to grab one of the bright clutches from American Apparel (see here) but they were out. Enter forecast of Sunday rain and thunderstorms - commence crafty party time in my house! :)

Here is the result - I am so in love, and am now contemplating how many other colors I need.

Here is astep-by-step tutorial of how I created this handbag - which will be perfect for running around town with!!!!

Supplies: Leather (Faux super soft, bright colored), Scissors, Books & Magazines as size reference, crazy color zippers, pins (Not shown & used - marker and ruler).

Measure & Cut - give yourself extra room for a seam allowance. Fold fabric in half - line spine of book up with crease and then measure around.  We will use the crease as bottom edge of the bag.

Fold 'right sides' together (Have the purple that will end on the outside folded to face each other). Separate edges slightly, now pin zipper in place. **Be sure your zipper is 'right side' down** we will sew so you can see the stitch with the bag is complete.  Pin in place at center of bag and then sew first side - go at a slow-med speed. For thicker fabric the slower speed will ensure the stitch gets through and holds.

Now we will sew the other side. Pin and sew. (If you look closely you can see my black thread from the other side of the zipper - I tried to stay close to the edge, so when we complete the bag a good amount of the contrasting zipper will show)

Now the easy part, hold the top edges together to aline the outside edges and then sew up the sides! Flip bag right side out et volia!!!! Mes amis tu es fini! (My friends you are finished!) 


I made a smaller one with a red/silver zipper. And a large handbag size with a bright almost neon yellow zipper (I made the zipper about only half the distance across the top and it is not as prominent as the red. However, the pop of yellow is unexpected and perfect!)

My small stock of brights and neons are starting to add up!!! LOVE!!!

PS- I added some 'light ends' at the salon on Saturday...me loves!!!!!! Oh I verge on wanting to be blonde again! :)