Quilted Purses
 

Lately I have been trying my hand at making quilted purses and have come across some great patterns. My only challenge is something to insert for the shape of the purse to make it more sturdy so it does not collapse. Has any one ever tried cardstock paper; all suggestions welcome ........Thanks

Some bags that I've had, had cardboard in the bottom. Some had iron-on heavy weight interfacing, but those shrunk, leaving a buckled appearance. (I suspect the fabric wasn't prewashed.)

Other things to try include template plastic, or plastic canvas, either of which could be covered in fabric.

All of these choices except the cardboard and your cardstock paper are washable. Cardstock wouldn't add much structure.

I'm thinking of bottom stabilization. If you want overall stabilization, I'd use the weight of interfacing that seems right to you, probably medium to heavy. It could be sew in or iron on.

I use peltex 70 extra firm stabilizer by pellon.

For sturdier sides, there is a product out there that is like the headliner stuff in the interior of your car. I am not at home right now to look at the name on the pkg but will check later for you. It is very nice...your bag will have a nice 'feel' to it...kind of similar to what is used in Vera Bradley handbags. You can get it at your LQS.

For sturdy bottoms, I have used foam presentation board or even cardboard from boxes of athletic shoes. Make a little fabric sleeve to slip it in and nobody knows. Easily replaced, too.

I like to use plastic canvas that you can do needlepoint. Cheap, easy to find, and it can be washed. Since it is perforated, it is breathable like fabric. I also use TimTex and Buckram, but really like the plastic canvas better.

I use Soft & Stable http://www.byannie.com/

Soft and Stable works good

I prefer using uphostery fabric or heavy drapery fabric. Holds up so much better and there are tons of fabric available. My friend made me a small tote purse and she used some really heavyduty iron on interfacing from Joann's. I think it cost $10.00 a yard but it is great.

Go to your local sign shop and ask if they have a scrap/misprint bin. Depending on who's at the counter I sometimes get stuff for free, but even if I have to pay something, it's a small amount. The sign material can be used for bottoms. I have used the thin stuff in the sides, but you can't sew thru it so it took some planning. You don't want to use cardstock because it will just crease and fail.

Myself, I wash purses, so cardstock wouldn't work for me. And I'm not a fan of plastic canvas, either, since it can crack.

My favorite is Pellon Craft backing. Don't do this with your outer piece of fabric, but an inner lining with two or three layers of craft backing holds a shape fairly well.