10-Minute Purse

So you're going to a Halloween party, you need to keep your cell and ID close, but your costume doesn't have pockets. Here's a solution that only takes 10 minutes:



While we were out shopping for decorations (some Halloween stuff works in our home year-round!), I saw this placemat that was absolutely gorgeous. The only thing is that we don't use placemats in our house. Did that stop me from taking it home? Of course not. The fabric is just so shiny and the black pattern was so velvety, I had to snatch it. I found an old ugly purse and took what I wanted from it and merged it with the nice fabric:



A placemat was a good start not just because I love the material, but it's already hemmed.

DIRECTIONS:
Cut the strap off of the ugly purse and cut it in half. If your ugly purse has two straps, cut them off and make sure they are the same length. The one that I had also had a flap inside which had a pocket and 3 slots for credit cards. If you are using an old purse with a zipper, velcro, or a magnetic closure, cut that out too.

Measure the placemat and mark with chalk three inches from each end. Pin the straps in place.



Sew the pocket inside the purse as desired. Sew the straps down going back and forth several times. You may even create an X by criss-crossing your stitches. This keeps the straps secure and prevents fraying.

Add your closure, if needed.

Finally, fold the placemat in half, wrong side out, and pin.



Now sew all the way up both sides. Turn inside-out and voila!

TIPS:
• add embellishments like patches, sequins, iron-ons, buttons, etc. before sewing up the sides.
• fold it in half length-wise for a long, deep purse or bottle carrier.
• fold the bottom up 1/3 of the way and create a flap. leave off the straps to create a clutch.
• purse handles and closures are available at the craft store if you don't want to recycle.
• remember when you sew your pocket and straps that the stitches will show on the outside, so keep it neat.
• make sure to sew on the straps before sewing up the sides!
• cloth napkins, pillowcases, table runners... they all work!