No Sew Fringe Purse

I don’t know if you are like me, but if you are then you go through a purse in no time at all. I don’t know why, but I am very hard on purses. Now, I think I have found a solution to the problem of buying a purse every other month. When I found this pattern I was elated. I can now choose the exact color and fabric for my purse and make it myself. Here is a plus, I can also launder my purse and keep it looking nice.

Image: Kathy Zengolewicz

Here is what you will need to get started:

• ½ yard of outerwear fleece
• 1 pair of 7 ½ inch round, oval or “D” shaped purse handles
• rotary cutter or scissors
• A ruler
• A cutting mat

First, cut 2 16 x 18 inch pieces of fleece. The 16 inch measurement is lengthwise grain (least amount of stretch) of fleece.

Lay the fleece pieces wrong sides together on the cutting mat. Remove a 3 inch square from each corner and discard. Using scissors or a slotted ruler, cut ½ inch wide x3 inch deep fringe as shown. Take note that you must have an even number of fringe on the top edge.

Using an overhand know or a square knot, tie the pairs of fringe together on all sides except the top. Separate the layers at the top. Again, using a square knot, tie the fringe in pairs, with one strand in front of and one strand behind, around each handle.

This is the pattern for a regular sized, everyday purse. You can always increase the amount of material and make a larger purse, a carry-all or even a bag to store your craft supplies.

If you choose a solid color of fleece you can always put an embellishment, an initial or your personal monogram on you bag to give it a personal touch.