Linen and Lace Bow Clutch

Sometimes I feel like my style is all over the place. I really love modern prints and styles – but I’m also drawn to looks that are classic and kind of preppy. I think I have multiple personality style issues. Or maybe they’re not issues. Maybe I just need to be ok with liking lots of different styles.

So since I’m embracing lots of different styles, I need accessories to go with all those styles right? Right. Today I have the sweetest little Linen and Lace Bow Clutch – to go with all my classic outfits. This little clutch is the perfect size for a night out – you can fit all the important things inside and not have to carry around a giant bag!

Making bags is one of my very favorite things ever, so I’m super excited to be participating in a fun series hosted by Amber from Crazy Little Projects! Every month Amber is doing a different sewing theme challenge, with projects to sew along with! This month her focus is all on Bags – so you will definitely want to head over there to check all the details!

I’m going to give you a tutorial for how to make a clutch based on any size frame – since frames come in so many different widths and styles.

The little bow frame is just my favorite thing! It adds such a fun touch to the clutch – and so does the fun polka dot lining.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• frame for your bag – mine came from this shop – they have lots of different styles and shapes
• fabric for outside of purse, lining fabric, medium to heavy weight interfacing (depending on your fabric weight)
• e-6000 glue
• chain for frame (optional)

Start by placing your frame on a piece of paper. Trace the outside of the frame, then draw out the rest of your bag, depending on how wide or deep you’d like it. Make a mark on the pattern where the hinge of the frame is, this will be where your side seams stop. Add a seam allowance all the way around (usually about 1/2″), then cut out your pattern pieces. You’ll need a front, back, and 2 lining pieces. You can also add in a bottom section if you’d like.

I decided to piece together the front of my clutch. I cut the pattern into pieces and added a seam allowance to each of the inside cut edges. (This way the finished front will still be the correct size after sewing it all together.)

Cut out interfacing pieces for your front, back and bottom pieces as well.

Sew together the front of your clutch. I added a piece of lace to my center panel.

I also added stripes of black ribbon over the seams, to match the black bow on the frame.

If you are adding a bottom panel to your bag, sew that to one side of the clutch.

Now line up the other side of the clutch, matching up the points on the sides you marked where the frame hinge is. Sew around the sides and bottom of the clutch, starting and ending at your marked points. Trim and clip all your curves.

Repeat these steps for sewing your lining together.

Turn the lining right side out, and tuck the outside fabric inside the lining, so the right sides are together. Line up the front, back, and the side seams of the bag. Sew around both sides, leaving a 2″ opening at the top on one side.

Clip and trim all the curves. Turn right side out and press. Hand sew the opening closed.

Adding the clutch to the frame is super easy. Just run a bead of E-6000 inside one side of the frame. Tuck the clutch inside the frame and make sure the frame is centered.

Wait about a half hour then repeat for the other side of the frame. Let the glue dry for at least 24 hours before using the clutch.

If your frame has loops for a handle, you can easily add a little chain (or fabric or leather) handle easily. Just connect the chain to the loops.

That’s it! You’re all set for a party with your cute new clutch!

I hope you give a clutch with a frame a try – it’s really a lot easier than you’d think! There are so many fun styles out there too.

I hope you like it! And make sure you head over to Crazy Little Projects for the Sewing Challenge!

Linking up at Met Monday, Tutorials & Tips Tuesday, Sugar Bee Crafts, 504 Main, Block Party, Snap, The Party Bunch, & Tip Junkie. Make sure you check them out!