I have tried all the methods over the years, plastic canvas, cardboard, acrylic cut to size at the home improvement centers, etc. but I like foam board ($1 at Dollar Stores) best. It is easy to cut to size, cover with a sleeve and holds up fine in the bottom of my purses. It has a softer feel than the acrylic but still gives a good sturdy bottom. You will love your Bow-tuck. I have made several.

I asked Joann's and Hobby Lobby what they did with the cardboard centers from the bolts of fabrics. Both said that they just throw them away. And both place gave me all that I wanted. It is fairly heavy cardboard. Just don't use your good scissors to cut it. I've carried my Bow Tucks for over a year now (almost daily) and it's been just fine.

For all my bags, I've never bought one of those expensive bag-e bottoms. I've made a couple of Bow Tuck Bags. When you get done with the bag, measure the bottom from the outside (5-1/2 x 14-1/2).... cut a piece of the plastic canvas a little smaller than the sleeve for the bottom. (I usually buy the heavier gauge -- about $1.30 at Joanns).

Hope this helps and didn't confuse you.

This is what I did. Went to the local Craft 2000 and bought for next to nothing an artist's board....you know, like they use to paint on. It's extremely sturdy....then when the bag was finished I measured the inside and cut my board to that specification. Then I took

fabric either coordinating with the lining or matching and covered the board and inserted it into the bottom. Just remember to cut the board a little bit smaller to allow for the wrapping. You will absolutely LOVE this purse. I have used mine for a year and I mean, USED it and if you follow the directions for interfacing, etc. it's the sturdiest bag around and I have put some real weight in it. On occasion even use it to haul my daubers, etc. to Bingo.

I have the Vera Bradley chicken print bag - I have loved it to death. Wish I could find another one.

I read on here that vinyl flooring pieces for certain templates. I got a discarded book of samples and it looks like that will work well. Also, as I was reading this, I think that material would work well in the bottom of bags covered with fabric! It would bend but not break as does the foam core and mat board. I think I will try it.

I used plastic canvas and made a pillow case for it. Works fine, got it at Joann's with coupon .

Try a piece cut to size of heavy cardboard, like a shipping carton. Cover with fabric sleeve to coordinate and the bottom winds up costing nothing. Works very well.

what also works great is plastic coragated signs....you know the yard signs...very strong very light weight, cut to fit....