Briefcase Clutch

I was in the midst of sewing a patchwork bag when this idea of making a briefcase-like-clutch came to my mind. Instantly, I started sketching and figuring out the size for this clutch. Then off I went rummaging through a pile of garbage......well, actually a bag of old clothing. Finally, I found an old jumper with newspaper & comic design. Based on the sketch and material in hand, the look changes slightly as I used the existing jumper's straps for clutch's closure.

I only used the pants part and the straps to make this briefcase clutch. There are pockets on both sides of the clutch which was formerly the jumper's side slant pockets.

For the lining, I used navy gingham. In between the fabrics I added batting for some structure and hand quilted the lining's flap closure.

Free buttons from the old jumper. Yea!

Here's the handle. The most important feature that gives it a briefcase look.....minus the fabric design of course:D. Now the clutch looks playful & childish. Maybe next time I'll work on fabric with solid or geometric patterns. I hope I can finish sewing the other bag. Still can't decide on the shape yet.

Finished size: 9 1/2" (l) X 7 1/4" (h) X 2" (d)

Happy sewing & see you soon.

Smocked Clutch for The Purse Week Contest

I entered my clutch in the Purse Week Contest hosted by Lemon Squeezy. This is a larger version of the clutch that I made before. I added the pics on the very last day of the contest as it took me quite some time to sew this clutch. When all is done I had a really big *grin*.

The design & size of the clutch pretty much depends on the smoking. I worked on the smocking first before changing the size & shape of the clutch. Beads are sewn on the smocked flap & strap. I added a strap so it can be swing joyfully :). I bet a hippie chick would love to own this clutch.

The finished size for this clutch is 15"(length), 8"(height), 8"(opening & flap) & 5"(strap).

Christie will be announcing the top 10 Purse Entries on Tuesday morning &  winners announced on Friday afternoon! Good Luck to all that have joined the contest. The prizes are so wonderful....really generous of the sponsors. Thanks Christie for hosting a fun contest :D

Here's more of the hippie smocked clutch...

Just to let you know that this clutch is for sale. If you're interested, drop me an email.( needlefield@yahoo.com )
The smaller version clutch is not for sale cause I'm keeping it :).

*Have a jolly fun day gals.*

Hot Smocking Clutch

Here's the finished look of the smocked clutch, posing happily under the morning sun. Do you fancy it?

I added clear plastic button for the flap closure. The overall size for this clutch is 11" wide X 7" high. The flap's width is 6" long. It's quite a roomy clutch to stash your wallet & hand phone.

I have to say that the clutch looks much better when it is full with things. I only added lightweight interfacing to the lining fabric, so this clutch is really lightweight.

Here's more pics of the clutch...

Inside out look of the clutch.

I'm really happy & satisfied with the finished look that I gave myself a pat on the back :). Sorry for the picture overdose...I got too excited while snapping the photos & ended up with more than 40 snap shots of it :P

I learned how to make the gathered rose from Better Homes and Gardens magazine - 100 decorating ideas under $100 (Fall 2009 issue). 

Happy crafting.

Just Bead It!

Remember the smocking that I did on my clutch? I made it last February and left it unfinished in my sewing bag. I thought of adding some embroidery work to the smocking but later decided to sew beads on each corner of the squares.

I only add beads on the smocked area. The smocking alone makes the design looks empty, so adding the beads or sewing some embroidery work would be necessary. Now I have to sew all the parts together to make a clutch before it rots in my sewing bag! Haha...

I'll post the finished work later. :)

Learn how to make this type of smocking here