Lately, I have been generously gifted sheets, clothes and other items that I might be able to turn in to something special. It's lovely to know that family, friends and colleagues are keen to support my hobby, and think of me before turfing something out. Thanks!
One such lovely friend and colleague gifted me an old cushion cover made out of some fun floral fabric. I'd been searching tutorials for Chrissie gifts and saw Kate's (from
See Kate Sew) great Envelope Clutch tutorial and free pattern. Immediately I thought of up-cycling the cushion cover into a clutch for my generous friend.
To begin with I made the clutch according to the instructions but added additional interfacing (one layer for both the lining and outer fabric).The clutch is very easy and super quick to make. It would make a great last minute Christmas gift to sew up! Also, it can be made out of very little fabric. A great stash buster!
Unfortunately the clutch was incredibly floppy-so floppy you could scrunch it up or use it as a hankie! After consulting
Instagram and the gift recipient I decided to reinforce the bag shape by adding a strap which went 3/4 down the sides of the bag. I also added this thin strap to the inside of the bag at the bottom and across where the 'envelope' folds.
The clutch is still soft but the reinforcement definitely helped! The pattern makes up quite a big clutch so the strap is actually quite hand, I think. In the future I might try this pattern out with a sturdier fabric such as leather, vinyl, or oil cloth.The gift was well-received and I was very happy to be making something special for someone for no other reason than why not?
Love your improvisation with the straps- I had the same experience when I made up this pattern, gave to my SIL for a Kindle cover. I didn't think about giving it to her to use as a hankie ;))
ReplyDeleteThanks Renee, I think it turned out well despite resembling a hankie at some stage.
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