How to Use Metal Purse Frames

Metal purse frames may seem intimidating when you are learning to sew or looking for retro purse patterns. You can easily use the metal purse frame to create your own pattern when sewing your purse. Get started by reading this metal purse frame tutorial.

If you have ever wondered how to use a metal purse frame that has a clasp to hold it shut, then check out these easy steps.

How to Use Metal Purse Frames Step 1: The Pattern

In most cases you will need to make your own pattern to use a metal purse frame. I have yet to come across a purse frame that comes with its own pattern.

So, the first thing I like to do is lay out a sheet of sketch paper. Any blank paper will do. Lay the metal purse frame flat on the paper. Now, use a pencil to trace the top lines of the purse.

When you get to the area where the clasp is you can skip this space. Pick up your frame and you can fill in the line where the clasp was.

Measure from the line to the bottom edge of the top of the purse frame. This will be your seam allowance when sewing the purse. In most cases this will be about 3/8 of an inch to ½ of an inch.

Now, you need to decide on the body of the small purse. You have the top lines, but the body can really be any shape. Circle, round or square, you decide. Draw this in with a pencil and then cut out your pattern.

How to Use Metal Purse Frames Step 2: The Fabric

Now, you want to lay your pattern out on 2 pieces of exterior fabric and two liner pieces. Cut them out.

Lay one exterior piece face up on the table and top if off with the second piece face down. Sew the sides and bottom. Repeat with the line, but leave a small opening in the bottom to turn it inside out with layer.

Now, turn the exterior fabric inside out. Slip the interior fabric up over the exterior. Line up the top edges.

Sew the top edges together. Be sure to keep to the seam allowance you determined before.

Turn the purse body inside out. Iron as needed. You can also sew that opening in the liner shut if you wish. I like to leave it to the end though.

How to Use Metal Purse Frames Step 3: Finishing

Now, you are ready to insert your purse body into the metal purse frame pattern. Simply run a thin bead of ultra strength fabric glue inside the metal purse frame. Gently push the top edges of your purse body that lien up with the frame in between the two metal edges.

You can insert a wood dowel or pencil inside the liner and help push the fabric in between the metal from inside as well.

I also like to use masking tape to hold in place until the glue dries. Peel of the tape 24 hours later and you are fished.

Tip: When doing this glue part of how to Use Metal Purse Frames you want to make sure you do not have any oozing out on the fabric from underneath the frame.