How to Sew a Handbag

Reviewed by Shaelynn Haning

If you're interested in sewing and design or even just creativity, then this is the right rainy day activity for you!

Steps

Make sure that if you are making a small messenger bag that it's around 12 inches (30.5 cm) in length and 10 inches (25.4 cm) in width.
If you want extra body try using a fusible product such as craft fuse, décor bond or form-flex. This gets fused with an iron to the inside of the outer fabric pieces before you sew it.

Advertisement
If you want you can box the bottom by measuring up 2 inches (5.1 cm) and creating a triangle measure in 2 inches (5.1 cm) sew across the diagonal.
keep the lining right side in. place the outer bag into the lining and sew a ¹ ⁄ ₂ inch (1.3 cm) seam around the top of the bag to secure the two pieces together. at the bottom of the lining open the bottom of the seam about 4 inches (10.2 cm) so that you can birth the outer bag through the lining opening.
Sew the lining back up by top-stitching the opening closed
For a handbag you can cut the handles 2 1/2 x 21 inches or if you want it to cross your body at least 2 1/2 x 40 inches.
this is where you mark to add your straps.

Search

Ask a Question

200 characters left

Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.

Submit a Tip

All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published

Name

Please provide your name and last initial

Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

Always use sharp scissors and good pins.

Thanks
Helpful 11 Not Helpful 3
Make sure your tetanus is up to date.

Thanks
Helpful 7 Not Helpful 5
Sewing can be an addictive and sometimes expensive hobby.

Thanks
Helpful 8 Not Helpful 14