I have found that you iron on two or more layers of a heavy interfacing on the (wrong side) bottom of either the outer fabric or lining makes a firm bottom for a purse. I don't like pillowcase bottoms because mine always seem to come up and the junk in the bottom of my purse hides under them. If I need a firmer bottom for a tote, I finish the bottom of the bag, then sew a piece of lining fabric over the bottom (on the inside), then just slide a piece of plastic into it.

Depends on the bag. Sometimes I do a double quilted layer at the bottom, other times I use cardboard in a pillowcase covering. My friend works in a pharmacy and I get the heavy duty cardboard from her.

I have a Vera Bradlely purse, I washed it and took the bottom out first,it had a sleeve of cardboard underneath it!!! They sure didn't spend money on expensive materials!! I tried it and it does work fine...also used vinyl placemat cut up...works great too!

I looked at foam board at Joann's and it seemed to thick to me. I love the vinyl placemat and milk jug ideas .

Thanks,
robin

If you use a non-washable item , make sure it can be removed before washing. So make a sleeve for it and then just remove it. I've heard of people using plastic needlepoint canvas, flooring tiles, cardboard, plexiglass, stiff pellon, etc.

I have priced those bag bottoms but they are very pricey. Makes the bags very xpensive

Pick up some of those election signs AFTER the election is over. They are made of corrugated plastic and can be cut to size. Keeps them out of the landfill and won't cost you a dime.

I went to a window blind store and they had plastic vertical slats left over from jobs and they gave them to me. they can be cut to size with scissors. sometimes I cover them with fabric. Also my husband cuts plexiglass for me to fit the purses.

cheap floor tiles is a FABULOUS idea! Thanks for sharing.

This is what I do also - get two usually from one plastic placemat.