That’s what it’s called anyhow. I’m not sure how perfect my pleats really are! All I know is that ironing the pleats for the side panels was a pain.
A special note to future pleated clutch makers: let the material cool down in between pleats.
To give you an idea of how many pleats I had to create, each panel of material started off at 56″ in width. The widest part of the finished clutch measures 14.5″. Yep, that is a lot of pleating. 
Despite the insane amount of ironing, this was a fairly easy project. The pattern consists of very few pieces and there isn’t a whole lot of sewing involved, especially in comparison to the Cosmo Bag project I recently completely. I’ve never really been that great at sewing in zippers and this is definitely the first time I’ve attempted to do a zipper with lining. To make matters worse I lost the zipper foot for my sewing machine. No surprise there seeing as I don’t have a clean and organized Martha-esque dream sewing/craft/work room. The good news is that a zipper foot isn’t completely necessary for finishing this cute one of a kind clutch.
This pretty clutch was a birthday present for my mother. So far, I've been pretty good about sticking to my resolution of giving handmade presents.
I like the fact the clutch has pockets inside. It’s great for keys, a cell phone and all those “little” things that end up taking up more space than you would like.
Being a mom, I think this clutch makes for a fantastic diaper changing carry all. You can easily fit a stash of diapers, wipes and even a small change pad in this crafty creation.
And one more shot of my handi-work. I took these photos immediately after I finished sewing and you can tell by the lint and thread all over my black sweater!
Would I make this clutch again? Most likely. There are a lot of girls in my life and this bag makes a fun present for any occasion. For project details you will have to pick up a copy of Amy Butler’s Style Stitches: 12 Easy Ways to 26 Wonderful Bags. This is the first pattern book I’ve purchased and so far, it has been a great investment. I’ve already made two of the bags featured in this sewing book and there are a few more I would like to tackle in the near future.
Have you tried sewing your own handbag or clutch? Do you have some tips to share? Would love to read your thoughts…
Sew worth the look: The Cosmo Bag, Olivia’s Quilt & Work in Progress: Kiana’s Quilt
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omg! This is so fabulous! I love the vintage feel.
GREAT JOB!
I have you to thank for getting me back into the sewing groove!
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