blzzrdqueen

I've just starting cutting fabric to make a purse to go with a dress I just bought. It will carry my wallet, cell phone and camera. Does anyone have any tips I should remember as I make this? I've always followed someone elses directions when making bag but this one I want to be "my own". Should I use just the fabric or should I use fusable fleese on the sides? I will be making a strap long enough to go over my shoulder and have the bag hang down to just above my waist. I'm putting a pocket inside. No zipper or snaps, it'll be an open bag, or I might put a button and a button loop..haven't decided yet...any help I would greatly appreciate.

0tis

The fusible fleece will help to stiffen it so if you are making a large tote for example - it will help to keep its shape. If you are making a small bag then maybe you won't need it.

Lucky Lady

I would definitely use fusable fleece. It will give it more shape and make it look nice. You can choose to do a bit of free motion quilting on it or just leave it plain.

Julie in NM

light colored lining or you won't find anything in it. don't ask me how I know!!

quilt1950

I would use the fusible fleece. It will provide some body, and make it look more like a purse, instead of two pieces of fabric sewn together.

LovinMySoldier

I like to use just a regular interfacing. And if you don't want to mess with a zipper or button, like it sounds like you don't you could put a magnetic closure on it. So simple and easy. Joanns has a ton of colors and different sizes. And cheap too even without a coupon.
I also put the interfacing on my straps too. Hopefully so they wont wear out as quickly. Good Luck! I love to make purses and bags!

blzzrdqueen

Thanks for the advice so far!

Another question...I have the lining of the bag sewn together, wrong sides out and about to do the same with the outside pieces. I just made the strap...now how do I attach the strap without the two ends showing on either side of the bag. Just one single strap....

bearisgray

I would try to figure out some type of closure for it - even a flap to go over the top

for a couple of reasons -

1) it's no one else's business what I have in there - and my bag is usually a mess

2) in case it's dropped, stuff will stay inside