DIY: Lace Panel Purse -

An ongoing long term goal of mine is to use up the fabric leftovers in my stash in unique ways. I even have an entire board on Pinterest for scrap fabric projects so that I stay inspired. This little (big?) endeavor of mine is how this project came about…that, and adoring everything lace. Especially in the spring and summer!

I was also actually on the lookout for a small – but fairly roomy – purse, so of course it seems fitting that I end up making a DIY version instead. I found this awesome bag at Goodwill for about $8, and I’m loving the hardware on the corners. You can use this technique to add an instant upgrade to practically any purse, whether it’s from the thrift store or the depths of your closet. As long as it has a flat cover or flap, you’re good to go. All you need is some Mod Podge, a brush, and fabric scissors.

Keep reading for the step-by-step tutorial!

Supplies:

– Purse with flat front flap (I thrifted mine for a couple dollars)
– Scrap lace (enough to cover the front flap, plus a few inches all around)
– Fabric scissors
– Foam brush
– Mod Podge/decopauge

Optional, but recommended:

– Matching thread and straight pins
– Needle & thread, or sewing machine

1) Fold the edge and pin.

2) Sew a straight stitch. Steps #1 and #2 aren’t necessary, but I definitely recommend finishing off the edge somehow. This will give the end result a more finished look. Above is a closeup of the lace edge sewn with a sewing machine.

3) Lay the lace on top of the front flap, finished edge parallel with the top. Make sure you have an extra inch or 2 all around.

4) Using the foam brush, apply Mod Podge along the top of the purse’s flap.

5) Lay the lace on top, patting lightly. Let dry until it’s dry to the touch, so that it doesn’t move around too much while you continue working.

6) At the corners, cut the lace. This will help the lace fold back under the purse’s flap, with minimal to no bunching.

7) Repeat at any other corners, all around the purse.

Example of how the lace neatly folds underneath the purse’s flap when cut near the corners.

8) Turn the purse over, front side facing down. If needed, trim the excess lace a bit. Add Mod Podge to the edge.

9) Fold over the lace, adding more Mod Podge if necessary. Evenly disperse the Mod Podge over the lace.

10) Continue with the rest of the lace.

NOTE: If your purse has hardware details such as this one, leave that side for last. I didn’t mind covering the closure with lace, but you can always cut around it if needed.