Craft: Clutch Purse

Posted 03/23/2011 by Anne K in Crafts \ 3 comments

Anne K. is a graphic designer & photographer who lives in Virginia. You can find more of Anne K. over at Adventures of Anne K. and The Paper Stylist

I love a fair-sized purse, but sometimes when I’m on-the-go I like to carry something a little smaller and compact. I love clutch purses for those times when all you need is your wallet, a lipgloss, and your phone. What I don’t particularly enjoy is how expensive and how many clutches are geared towards evening wear. Thankfully, there is trusty Etsy.com. While browsing for clutches to add to my collection, I came across a cute, easy envelope clutch pattern by Etsy seller Keykalou.

Easy Clutch pattern
{image via Etsy seller Keykalou}

I brought out two pieces of coordinating fabric and set about to make my own clutch. As a novice sewer, I found this pattern very easy to follow. The directions are very concise with clearly marked photographs. Keyka Lou’s blog also has great tips to help you along.

Here are some photos of my progress.

pattern and sewing supplies
{images courtesy of author’s personal collection unless otherwise noted}

I laid out my materials. Because the clutch was small, I was able to use scraps I had in my fabric stash.

Pattern Pieces Cut

I diligently followed the instructions with one modification. I added a strap. To make the strap, I followed I used the directions found in Sew What! Bags.

Making a wrist strap

DSC_22031

This was so simple. Although, I did find the curves a bit tricky to navigate. I’m sure this will get easier with practice. I was able to finish it in a little over an hour and a half. For a novice like me, this was exciting.

Here’s the finished product.

handmade clutch purse

It was so fun and easy that I made two more for my friends.

Friends with clutch purses

Does anyone have any other clutch purse patterns they’d like to share? I can never have enough in my collection.

we heart your comments!
  1. Sara B writes... {March 23, 2011 at 9:40 am}

    This is so cute, and it looks like a pretty easy pattern. I might try it this weekend!

    The first purse I ever sewed was using this pattern from Better Homes and Gardens – http://www.bhg.com/crafts/sewing/accessories/clutch-purse-with-antique-pin-closure/ It turned out great!

  2. Methinks I’ll have to go purchase a pattern or two on Etsy. I’ve been seeing your posts on Twitter and my desire for a clutch has slowly grown. :)

  3. Your clutches turned out great, Anne! They are all lovely. That was sweet of you to make them for your friends.

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