11.15.2008

Small "Origami" Purse

This is the purse that has been living in my head for about a month now. I stayed up until 1am last night working on it. It still needs a little bit of work, but it's done for the most part. I'd like to believe this is totally original, because I drew the pattern several times myself, but I most likely got my inspiration from somewhere, or saw one like it without realizing it. I do like it though and plan on making more like it.

The handle is the thing that kept stopping me. I knew exactly what I wanted but couldn't figure out how to make it. I never did figure it out but did come up with an acceptable substitute. I wanted something that would hold its shape and yet be very narrow, so I ended up using a four inch strip of this black moleskin folded over several times until the end result is only .75 inches wide. Sorry the background is so dark....it looked better on my camera.
As you can see, I designed it so that the crossover created a pocket in the front. There is one on each side, and that is the thing that I need to fix, as I didn't sew up quite far enough on the bottom and the pocket gapes too much when you are carrying it. Also, you can see the purse is pretty small, which is the way I wanted it, just a fancy-schmancy little purse! It sits up under my armpit when I wear it, the strap is only 17" from end to end.

I did a french seam on the bottom, first time I have ever done one of those.

Things I would change...next time I need to use interfacing or heavier fabric as the purse tends to gape open when it is just being carried in your hand. I really like how narrow the bag is, but I did consider possibly attempting to add a bottom somehow. And I might try somehow adding a pocket to the inside, although I am not totally sure how to do that. Other than that, I really like it. Thoughts? Suggestions?

5 comments:

jewelstreet said...

I really like it. It has the sweetest shape to it, and I love that it's small.

I would love to see one in that fabric you used on that other piece or some really simple but elegant fabric.

Antoinette said...

I like the shape a whole lot! Inside pockets are a great idea and very easy if the bag has lining -- let me know if you need a resource for illustration/ instruction for your first time. A flat bottom would look nice, esp. if it's narrow. I think your fabric is great, too. I would avoid the whole Asian thing, like no shiny red brocade with Chinese characters (you prob. weren't going there anyway, but it popped into my mind). :)

Brava!

Rachel@oneprettything.com said...

Oh that's so cool, really fun shape!

MaricrisG said...

That look really cute I tell you! It's simply attractive! Great work!

Maricris
SITStah

Le said...

ohh I love it - so sweet and the fabric really works well ... thanks for dropping by the third and leaving some thoughful words - much appreciated - cheers le