Originally Posted by
gramma nancy
I am about to make a tote bag for my DD and a purse for an upcoming trip for myself. My question is -- what does everyone use to create a flat, nonbending bottom on their bags? I don't want to put all the work into piecing a nice bag and have it droop.
In the past I have used plastic needlepoint canvas. I've always liked it because you can cut it very precisely to any size, but it is not quite as stiff as I would like. Any ideas?
Many thanks to anyone who cares to share.
I usually go to WalMart and look in their kitchen utensils area for the pack, of 6 I think it is, plastic colored cutting boards.
Those are easily cut with utility scissors, and with corners rounded seem to be perfect stiffening material for tote bags, purses, and clutches. While leaving the purse (or item) totally washable although I hang to dry for fear the dryer will melt the cutting board.
The needlepoint net idea is really good but hang dry is what I would do if I use that as well.
There are also programs to create fabric labels for homemade sewn items that are washable too.
I even found a company that makes them for you and it isn't costing a arm and leg either. I love this because I make items for my grandbabies and can put who it is from as well as washing instructions.
A friend of mine actually uses her embroidery/sewing combo machine to make her labels and then sews them right into the item. She picks up white pillow cases from thrift stores, goodwill stores, garage sales etc and has a cardboard rectangle that she uses to cut the "label" out (from the pillow case material ) with so that it is large enough to hem, embroider, and read!