Thread: I have a question on purses????? Need Help Quick!!!

I have used the plastic with holes that you use for needlepoint sorry can't think of the name. It works great.

Good question. Has anybody tried using thin sheets of acrylic that can be found in hardware stores. It can be cut by hand with a sharp blade. Since I want a purse that I can throw in the washer and dryer from time to time I like the idea of something that can be covered and removed when I need to and is reusable when a new purse is needed.

Originally Posted by HummerGardenCrafts

I have been using plastic canvas in the bottom of my purses to help make it sturdy. I ran out and can't find what I have here somewhere. My question is, what else can I use for this??? I need to get these finished.

I got one from a friend. She used cardboard. I don't want to use that. I knew what would happen when I washed it. I washed it Sat. and it happened. That cardboard misshaped and went into a ball. I got it out. So I'll fix another insert for that one also.

I hate driving an hour just for some plastic canvas. Hopefully I can find it. It's in a tote somewhere. But thought maybe there was something else I could use or buy later that might be better than plastic canvas.

I use the plastic canvas in-between the lining and the bottom. However, when I don't have the plastic canvas, I have used cardboard... but when I do I make a sleeve out of the lining fabric and slide the cardboard into it and lay it on top of the lining in the bottom of the bag. That way when the cardboard weakens & bends (and it does) I can replace it... and it can easily be removed to clean the bag. Since Hurricane Irene has closed the nearest Joann's (all my plastic canvas is gone) I've been cutting up and using paperback book cover sleeves called "HardBacks" that I had left over from when I had the bookstore. These are VERY durable and don't bend easily; almost as strong as Lazy Girl Designs Bag-E-Bottoms. Don't know if "HardBacks" are still being manufactured but I do love using them in my handbags!

i use theplacemats that are made out of plastic or whatever u call it then make a sleeve to cover take it out when washing and drying.u can getplacemats cheap off clearance racks.

Originally Posted by HummerGardenCrafts

I may have to start doing that and just use a thick cardboard. And tell them not to wash that part. I've got to get these done. I have several more things to get done before Christmas.

Thanks for the help.

I use a piece of leftover picture mat board. You can often get that from the frame shop for not much money.

Originally Posted by CloverPatch

I can't help you with items to permanently sew in.
I have always made a sleeve to put matboard in. i remove it to wash ofcourse.

I do as Clover Patch does and use a very heavy mat board. I make a sleeve for it so it can be removed for washing. You can find mat board in the framing or art department of Hobby Lobby or Michael's. I also sometimes use plexiglas. Lowe's or any home store will cut it for you.

A thin piece of plywood cut to size also works