Recently, a friend of mine got a very pretty weaved purse, and I was so inspired by it that I had to create something of the same sort. I chose a fall color pallet, but it really would look great with any color pallet you choose. What I love most about this project is that every satchel has a different look, even if the color pallets are similar. Take a look if you'd like to create your own...
Pantry Supplies: Sewing machine, sewing pins, scissors, craft or hot glue.
Begin by cutting the base of your satchel out of leather. Mine was two separate pieces. One was 18x30 inches and the other 18x19 inches, but you can make it whatever size works for you. Then, take strips of ribbon and trim, and begin weaving them together to form a rectangle. You'll want it to be slightly smaller the front flap of the satchel. My front flap was 18x11 inches, and my weaved ribbon block was 15x9 inches once it was finished. // Next, cut out a rectangle in the large piece of leather. This will be the front flap of the satchel. Pin the rough edges inward, and sew the ribbon block to the back of it. // Now you're ready to finish piecing together the satchel. Begin by cutting 18x30 and 18x19 inch pieces out of the cotton fabric. With the outer sides facing inward, sew them together to form the inside of the satchel. Leave a four inch hole at the bottom so that you can turn the bag inside out when the time comes. // Repeat this step with the leather pieces, creating the outside of the satchel, except don't leave a hole at the bottom. // To sew together, turn the leather facing outward and the cotton facing inward. Then, place the leather inside the cotton, line up the edges, and sew it together. Next, through the hole of the cotton piece, pull the bag through so that the bag is now facing outward. Stitch the hole so that the bag is complete. // Lastly, sew together a long strip of the leather, with the seam facing inward, and stitch it to the sides of the satchel, creating the strap.
If you decide to tackle this project, please share! I'd love to see all of the different combinations.
