Can Any Fabric Be Used On a Bag?

When learning how to make designer handbags, you must choose the type of fabric you really like. However, bearing in mind that your fabric should be suitable for the type of handbag you will be making. It is recommended that you choose a firm weight fabric; one that does not slip and slide as you attempt to maneuver it around your table or sewing machine.

For the Teri Monique structured purse making method, sturdier fabrics like a cotton duck are better suited for the bags. Around 7 oz. It is fine or slightly lighter, but you want to avoid sheers or silky fabrics. You can usually find a good selection in the home decor section of your fabric store. Click here to view a selection: Home Decor Fabrics.

Your choice of fabric will also depend a lot on the use of your handbag. Is it a small bag you’re making? Will it be carrying heavy objects? Is it for everyday wear? These are things you must consider if you want to make a bag that lasts.

Suede fabric is a nice pick or even patent leather, depending on the type of handbag you are making. In any event, suede makes a really cool lining…oh, so rich. Another nice fabric is a medium weight upholstery or drapery fabric; not the weighty carpetbag type unless, of course, you have an industrial sewing machine. By now, you probably know that I paint my fabrics, so while I might veer off occasionally, my first love is painting.

While the sexy slinky fabrics can be used to make a purse, they typically don’t fit in too well with the type of handbags I teach. So it’s not wrong. It simply requires another technique.

Colors are also important. Choose something you like and, if you are a lady, something you would be excited about wearing. If it’s for a client, then you must take into consideration their preferences.  Of course, you will need to know what kind of straps you will want on the handbag. So try to think through your options with straps and closures.

If this is your first handbag, have fun but don’t try to be too adventurous when choosing your bag fabrics and hardware. Always creep before you crawl and walk before you run, then in no time, you too will know how to make a designer handbag with gorgeous fabrics.