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Design your initial purse shape. This will determine your pattern and your patchwork fabric consumption. For instance, your design can include a large tote with a matching change or coin purse. Keep in mind that you will be using a patchwork design. You can use solid pieces of fabric as accent inserts within your design. Include in your sketch any lining or quilting backing or quilting stitch pattern for your patchwork. It is important to include in your design what you will be using your purse for. If you plan to carry heavy items, you will need to include a wide strap, hardware and lining. Select your purse closure hardware or trim such as zippers, velcro, snaps or drawstrings.
It is best to use your initial sketch to map out placement for your patchwork, accent fabric inserts and trims. Add color to your initial sketch with placement in mind. -
Your purse pattern will generally include a front and back panel, a purse flap for closure, two side panels, one bottom panel and a strap. You can also opt to have a zipper closure with a logo purse influence. Measure the width and length of your purse. It is important to note that the bottom and side panels will dictate the amount of room your purse will offer.
Measure the width and length of your purse. Draw a rough pattern of your purse. It is best to use a patch size divisible by the length and width. For example, if your purse pattern measures 12 inches in width and 16 inches in length, you can use a 4-inch width by 4-inch length patch, which evenly divides into 12 and 16. This will keep your patchwork design from being cut off at the sides or bottom. - Lay out your patchwork pattern on your rough paper pattern before constructing. Stitch your patchwork pattern as a fabric panel. Add any backing or quilting stitch to your patchwork panel. Pin your purse shell pattern parts, lining shell and strap pattern to your fabric and cut. Sew your purse shell and lining separately. Pin the two shells and straps together to check for strap length comfort. Construct your purse by attaching and sewing the two separate shells together. Place your trims and hardware. Incorporate your trims and selected decorative stitch.
