Thread: Wish Me Luck

I started with a Bow Tucks pattern and have adapted it. For example I've used some original jean pockets on the outside. I quilted the jean outer. I made a bunch of interior pockets, etc. It is denim on the outside and has a cotton lining. Any how.... I decided to put plexiglass base in the bottom and screw in rubber feet. We are going to attempt to drill the holes now.

I like the way this purse is going, it has been a lot of thinking about what I like and want. My current purse is too heavy but I can't seem to leave any junk out of it.

So wish me luck, hopefully I'll have some pics to show you soon.

Sounds great, but with the denim, plexiglass and rubber feet won't the bag be sort of heavy even when it's empty? For purse bottoms, I use 2 layers of foam core (from the $ store) stick them together, cover with fabric., whip stitch to the bottom of the bag. Pretty sturdy and lighter weight than the plexi.
Love to see it, post pictures when you are done!

Ironically, I'm making this purse because my current purse IS too heavy. I keep making this one heavier. I decided on the plexiglass because I want to be able to throw it in the washer, and the rubber feet to try and keep the fabric away from the shopping cart.

I decided to make the pockets custom because every purse I've found in the stores has too short pockets on the inside and everything falls out of them.

The rivets we attempted to use did not work so hubby bought some tiny bolts this morning (more weight)

I also sewed long cross body padded straps (more weight) since I have neck issues.

I'm beginning to think it might be a learning project and not something I'll be able to use as intended.

Because I just whip stitch the covered foam core bottom into the bag, I can remove it to launder. I found some woven nylon stuff at wallmart on their $1 table a couple of years ago. It looks very sheer, but is really strong. I've been making my inside pockets out of that (I bought the bolt) and helps keep the weight down. I will cry when my supply is gone. You might want to look at ripstop nylon for the lining and inner pockets. really strong, but light. I would also guess that purse feet are going to be lighter weight than the rubber feet and fasteners.
My purse weighs a ton because I have to carry stuff that my husband maybe might need someday: 'here put this broken screwdriver in your purse, we might go to Sears someday...', 'what do you mean you only have a 3' tape measure in your purse?', etc.
The bag really sounds fabulous, Please post a picture!

I had to laugh at hubby's stash in your purse! I do that to myself. I have a little flashlight (4x1, heavy!) in case I'll need it, etc. I used to carry a metal tape measure, but now have a paper 3' one I got at Jerry's. The nylon stuff sounds good. Many people use "pet screen" which is a strong plastic with holes in it. There is a place here that sells it in bulk, and also gives away scraps but I haven't been there yet.

We haven't put the feet on yet, and I haven't finished the purse yet, but I will post pics when it's done.

I like your idea of foam core, but don't know if it would be sturdy enough with the feet I'm using. I want it pretty stiff to keep the fabric off the cart. Like I said, this is a learning experience.

It's almost done. I ended up with the interior pockets too close to the top, so my stuff will fall out this way. There is a magnet in the middle top that closes it. I'm thinking of putting some magnet snaps in. I don't know what else to do, there is no room for a zipper or anything.

How would that work? I thought of it, but I'm not sure how to do it. The tops of the purse are really thick from turned in seams, and overcast stitches.

Originally Posted by Neesie

CUTE purse!!! If you want a zipper, you could put it as an exposed one, along the top. The ends of the zipper would sort of hang loose (they could be tucked inside) . . . but it would work. "Where there's a will, there's a way."