Tie Purse

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Instructions

I used the pattern listed more as a template for the construction of the bag. Her instructions and pattern do not really create the bag style that she presents in the book, but it was a learning experience. I plan on trying this again, but with my own pattern and construction now that I'm more familiar with this type of tote/purse/handbag. I used the pattern listed more as a template for the construction of the bag. Her instructions and pattern do not really create the bag style that she presents in the book, but it was a learning experience. I plan on trying this again, but with my own pattern and construction now that I'm more familiar with this type of tote/purse/handbag.

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Difficulty:

Category: Sewing

Type of item: Accessory

For: Women

Style: Funky, Mod, Classic, Hipster, Casual, Retro / Vintage

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Materials

2 silk ties, 1 polyester tie, trim, embroidered suede, cotton print, fusible fleece, cotton batting, bamboo handles

What was your inspiration?

Last fall at an arts & crafts fair, I saw a spectacularly funky booth (perfect for me!!!). Everything presented in the booth was made from ties: purses, skirts, dresses, backpacks, etc. Anything and everything. It was rather clever and totally unique, but most of the stuff was unwearable or unusable. They seemed a lot like novelty items, but I smiled the entire time I was there.

That sprung the idea of making a quilted tie purse or tote, but I wasn't sure how to go about making one. I found three ties with gorgeous prints on them at a thrift store. I set them aside to think about how to approach this idea. Since I have never worked with ties before, I figured I ought to start simple. So I made an applique of sorts (never made one before) and went from there.

What are you most proud of?

This project had quite a few "firsts" for me. :)

I've never done a meandering quilting stitch before. I use my grandmother's 1950-something sewing machine. It has changable cams that have never been used before (not even by her!). I finally learned to change them and used this project as my first try with a decorative stitch. It's hard to see in the pictures of the lining because I chose a stitch that blended with the print. :) I wanted to hide any imperfections of the stitching.

I've also never used cotton batting before. I find that I like the way with helps shape the bag. :)

While the bag didn't turn out like I had hoped, I am suprised at how it turned out!

What advice would you give someone starting this project?

If you get an idea for a project -- Think it through, but don't hesitate. :)