How to Make a Denim Purse
Introduction:
Did you know that you can transform an old pair of jeans into a fashionable denim purse? This eco-friendly and creative accessory is not only functional but also adds a touch of style to your wardrobe. In this step-by-step guide, we will teach you how to make your very own denim purse.
Materials:
1. An old pair of jeans
2. Scissors
3. Sewing machine or needle and thread
4. Pins
5. Measuring tape or ruler
6. Fabric marker or chalk
7. Optional embellishments (buttons, patches, lace, etc.)
Steps:
1. Prepare the jeans: Choose an old pair of jeans that you no longer wear or find one at your local thrift store. It’s best to select a pair with minimal wear and tear for a durable purse.
2. Cut out the purse base: Lay the jeans flat on your work surface, ensuring there are no wrinkles or folds in the fabric. Using a fabric marker or chalk and measuring tape, draw a rectangle approximately 15 inches wide by 12 inches tall on one leg of the jeans, starting from the bottom hemline as the bottom edge of your rectangle.
3. Cut the rectangle out. making sure you cut through both layers of fabric. Set aside the remaining
fabric for later use.
4. Create the strap: From the leftover jean material, cut out a long strip measuring at least 48 inches long and 3 inches wide for an adjustable shoulder strap.
5. Continue with folding each long edge of the strap towards the center so that they meet in the middle and press with an iron to hold them in place.
6. Sew along both edges of your folded strap using a straight stitch on your sewing machine or a simple running stitch by hand, making sure to backstitch at both ends to secure the seams. Set your completed strap aside.
7. Sew the purse base: With the right side of your main piece facing up, fold it in half so that your 15-inch edges line up with each other, creating a 12-inch tall by 7.5-inch wide folded rectangle. Pin and sew along both 12-inch edges using a straight stitch, leaving a half-inch seam allowance.
8. Turn your purse right-side out so that the seam allowances are hidden inside.
9. Attach the strap: With the purse still turned right-side out, insert one end of the strap through one of the top corners of your purse and fold it down about an inch over the corner edge, so the raw edges are hidden inside. Sew the strap securely to your purse using a rectangle shape with an X through it for added strength—much like you’d see on a backpack or messenger bag strap attachment.
10. Repeat this process on the opposite top corner of your purse with the other end of your strap.
11. Embellish your purse: If desired, add patches, buttons, or lace to personalize and further enhance your new denim purse.
Conclusion:
Congratulations! You have now created a fashionable and eco-friendly accessory from an old pair of jeans. Use it as a daily handbag or gift it to someone special—you now have the skills and know-how to create unique and personalized denim purses!