How to Make a Hippie Purse

One of the most fun things about the hippie styles that were popular in the sixties and seventies was that most of the clothing worn was homemade. Many of the styles and accessories that were so popular then have made their way back into stores. It is a lot of fun to see these styles returning. The only thing missing is seeing more of the homemade styles.

My latest project was to make a hippie purse. I love it and will use it through the Summer. It was very easy to make and took me only one week to finish. I have included a few photos of it with this article. I am also wearing the halter that was my last project and featured in an earlier article.

If you enjoy the hippie styles of the past and want to be unique, you might want to try making some of your own accessories. Hats and headbands that were so popular in the past are very easy to make. Here is a fun way to utilize your crafting, sewing, and beading skills to make your own homemade hippie purse.

Items Needed To Make Hippie Purse
1. Yarn and crochet needle
2. One half yard of fabric
3. Needle and thread
4. Beads and string

I was able to find all of these items and more at one store. Click here to see many colorful yarns and beads you could use for this project.

Crochet Instructions For Purse
The width of the hippie purse will be decided by the length of your first row of crochet. There are no rules on how big or small this purse should be, so stitch your first row whatever width you desire. Double stitch this first panel till it is the length you desire for your hippie purse. Tie the finished panel off and make an identical sized second panel.

Attach the two separate panels by single stitching the edges together. As you reach the end of attaching them, begin a single stitch for the purse handle. The length of the handle is also something that is a matter of personal preference. Single stitch till it is the desired length then attach the end to the purse. Begin a double stitch at this point and go back over the handle till it is as wide as you like.

The hippie style purse will have a more finished look if you go over all edges with a finishing single stitch. You will also want to go around the top opening of the purse with a single stitch. The purse in the photographs that I just finished is simple and open. You might choose to make a flap and button cover if you prefer it . If so, simply crochet a panel half the size as your original two and attach it to one side with a single stitch. Add a button to the front and a loop on the panel that fits it well.

Sewing Instructions For Purse Lining
The lining for this homemade purse should be a simple two panel lining. Cut your fabric to size leaving a quarter inch for edging. Stitch three sides tightly. Fold the edging material and stitch it into your purse while stitching the fold. You will want to stuff the lining into the purse first to make sure you have the proper fit.

If you find your lining is a bit smaller or longer than you need, adjust by attaching it inside the purse properly. Always be sure the top of your lining lines up nicely with the top of the purse. Keep your stitches small and use thread that matches your yarn for the best results.

Beading Instructions For Hippie Purse
The hippie purse featured in this article has a simple string of beads. Use any beads that you like and set them out as you intend to string them to make sure you like the look. String your beads leaving and tie off both ends.

Be sure to leave plenty of extra string on both ends of your beads to attach it to the purse. You can use your crochet needle to thread the string through and tie it off inside the purse handle. I kept my purse very simple but you might want to also consider adding some beads strung on yarn to the bottom of the purse. This will give it much more length and make it even more colorful.

Making The Purse Special
If you want to really stand out, consider all the possibilities for making this purse in your own unique style. The possibilities are endless. The colors you choose and the things you use to decorate this purse will show off your style and skills so, be bold and have fun with it.

You might even want to consider making this homemade hippie purse in a rainbow of colors. To do that, simply follow the same instructions but make numbered rows of stitching with each color you use. Also, consider edging the purse with one single color to give it a very finished look.

This hippie style purse is meant to be fun. Use anything you like to decorate it. Adding flowers or ribbons will make give it your personal touch and make it that much more fun. I hope you enjoy this craft project. If you liked this article, consider clicking here to read more of my craft and hobby ideas.

Source:

http://michaels.com/art/online/home