Amy Butler: In Town Bags pattern

Drawstring Purse & Smart Handbag

These designs are one of our best-sellers because they are so simple make, but look so effective. This is the pattern that I always recommend to folks who are new to bag making. Have fun playing with your fabric combos  and /or even add a pretty fabric flower to make your bags extra special.  Sewing pattern includes: instructions, full sized re-usable pattern pieces, and measurements to create your own Drawstring Purse & Smart Handbag. For materials list see below.

To see a finished example of this bag click here, here, and here.

FOR THE HANDBAG

• 1 yard of a vintage or new vintage inspired fabric, preferably a mid weight to heavier weight cotton that will hold the shape of the bag (or if you like.....choose one 1/2 yard of fabric for the exterior of the handbag and a different 1/2 yard of fabric for the lining and interior pockets.)
• 1 mid size decorative button for the Handbag front.
• 1 small decorative button for the Handbag back.
• 6" of 1/4" wide ribbon for the Handbag closure.

Project Finish Size: 10"wide x 10"tall with handles.

FOR THE DRAWSTRING PURSE

• 1/3 yard of coordinating fabric scraps (measuring at least 30² long)
• 1/3 yard of a second coordinating solid or print fabric for the lining.
• Optional: 22" each of 2 different ribbons for applique detail on the outside of the purse. You can also embellish your purse with great buttons, beads or vintage jewelry pins. A row of beaded fringe would be great across the bottom edge of this bag! You would need 10" of beaded fringe.

Project Finish Size: 10" wide x 14" tall with handles.