Sew Stylish Boutique: Simple Clutch (Re-purpose a cloth placemat)

Saturday, May 14, 2011

Simple Clutch (Re-purpose a cloth placemat)

Create a clutch that is the perfect accessory for all your spring events, using a cloth place ma

This cute clutch was so easy and you don't need a sewing machine to do it, I am using mine as a diaper clutch.

Supplies Needed:
1. Cloth place mat
2. Large snap, magnetic closure or set of handbag magnets
3. Decorative button
4. Hand sewing needle or sewing machine

First I created a pleat at the center of the short end of the place mat by folding the upper edge 1 inch towards the center leave a space where the snap closure will be. This will be the center front of the bag. Sew the pleat in place.

Next fold up the pleated end, two thirds of the way to the top of the mat, the top flap will close over the purse. This next part can be a little tricky, line up the edges of one side so they are touching but not overlapping. Then do a zigzag stitch making sure to catch both edges in the stitching. If you don't have a sewing machine you can do a whip stitch to hold the edges closed. Repeat on the other side of the purse.

Then fold the upper corners of the top flap about an inch toward the bag interior.This will pull the bag body in at an angle. Tack the upper corners in place with a a few stitches.

Center the closure along the upper edge secure in place. Center the second component along the bag body upper edge and secure into place. I hot glued a button over the snap. Now you are done.