Directions for an Monogrammed Purse with Bamboo Handles/September
2003
This project utilizes letters from our Asian Monogram Set 1.
Step 1.Pprint the instructions.
These are .pdf files,
and require Adobe Acrobat Reader software in order to view and print.
To insure printing in exact size, be sure that FIT TO PAGE (see Properties
under the Print Menu) is not selected.
Step 2. Review instructinos and materials required (materials list
at
the
end
of
these instructions.)
Step 3. Create a monogram and merd designs.
The Asian Monogram Set 1 consists of 55 designs (A-Z in two sizes, plus
three circular borders).
We used the larger size letters (3/4" - 19mm) along with the medium-sized
border (1 3/8" - 35mm) to create a single letter monogram.
Merge the letter of your choice, along with the border, within an embroidery
software program. Once you are happy with the design, save it under a new
filename.
For this project, we created nine copies of this monogram, enough to create
an accent strip across the front of the purse, near the bottom. If you have
a 5" x 7" hoop, you should be able to fit five designs in one hooping,
and will have to rehoop for the other four. A large hoop will require a single
hooping, a smaller hoop will require more hoopings.
Step 4.Prepare the fabric and embroider the designs.
(Note: the kit for this purse contains two bamboo handles with brass rods
and endcaps, along with instructions and templates for constructing the handbag.
Please refer to these instructions for handbag assembly)
Cut a piece of fabric for the outer layer 14" x 20".
Create a line on the right side of the purse fabric 2 1/2" above the
center fold using Wonder ape. This line will mark the placement for the bottom
edge of the monogram stripe.
Hoop all layers of stabilizers and fabric with tear-away stabilizer on the
bottom.
We used ultrasuede for this project. If you are unable to hoop the fabric
because of the nap (suede, velvet, etc.) spray hooped stabilizer with temporary
spray adhesive and press the fabric into place on the top.
Check to see that the monogram stripe will be correctly matched and aligned
to the top edge of the Wonder Tape.
Your hoop size will determine whether or not the monogram stripe can be sewn
all at once, or will need to be sewn in sections. If rehooping is required,
sew the first section, then move the fabric over for the second hooping.
To successfully align the second hooping, overlap the first new monogram
design with the last one stitched. Do not stitch - test the placement by
lowering the needle to match stitch points, adjusting the layout with the
machineís directional arrows as needed. When pleased, advance the
design to the second monogram in the row and continue the embroidery.
To create an accent, change the thread to a contrasting color for one of
the monograms. We chose the seventh one so that the contrasting monogram
would be on the right side.
Be sure to leave room for a 1/2" (13mm) seam at each side.
Step 5. Assemble the purse.
Following the manufacturerís directions, select a lining fabric,
with an additional piece for the inside pocket. Cut the lining fabric to
14" x 20" and the pocket fabric to 5" x 8".
Fold the pocket piece in half to 5" x 4", then fold under raw
edges 1/4" on three sides. Top stitch to the right side of the lining
fabric, centering and placing the pocket 3 1/2" down from the raw edge.
Press down flat.
Pin the 14" x 20" pieces right sides together on all four sides.
Leave a 6" opening on one side in the middle of the long seam to allow
turning. Machine stitch the right sides together with a 1/4" seam all
around before turning trim interfacing as close as possible, and trim corners.
Turn and press, pulling corners with a pin. Top stitch opening together
(this will be the seam)
Fold and pin top 14" edges down 1/2" to form casings, lining sides
together. Top stitch the edge down.
Fold bag in half with right sides and casings together. Measure 3" down
from the top mark and 1 1/2" from bottom mark. Stitch 1/4" seam
between these two markings. Press seams open and pull out end opening into
a triangle. Mark a straight line and stitch 3" straight across (1 1/2" on
each side of seam.) Press triangle up to side seam and tack with needle
and thread.
(Select beads of your choice for an optional embellishment. Stitch them
to the center of the casing line before attaching the bamboo handle.)
Clear residue from the drilled holes of the two bamboo handles, and place
them with the two rods and 2 caps in front of you on a hard surface. Lace
open end of rod into one end of the handle, then through the bag casing,
easing gathers as tight as possible, then through the other side of the
handle. Repeat for the other side. Bend bamboo with pressure and insert
into the other end of the handle. (You may need assistance from another
person.) Screw on endcaps tightly.
Congratulations!
Your project is complete
Sources For Materials
Stabilizer, Wonder Tape, Thread, Fabric
Widely available at local sewing stores.
6” Bamboo Handle Handbag Kit:
Sudberry House
The company has local retail distribution, and also has secure online
ordering:
http://www.sudberry.com/catalog/bamboohandlesbrassclips.htm
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