DIY Network

Fuzzy Bathmat Purse Lace up some fluffy fun with this bag. From "B. Original" episode DBOR-505

Even kids can lace up this no-sew bag.

There's no such thing as too many fun handbags – and this wacky, no-sew purse is a fun addition to any handbag wardrobe. Michele Beschen shows how to make a funky, fuzzy purse from a discount-store bathmat for a free-spirited look. And you don't even need to worry about getting it wet!

Scroll down to B. Original with this easy, no-sew project, and get started on your own handmade-handbag wardrobe.

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Materials:

bathmat
cardboard for template
leather punch
leather cord or lacing
china marker
ruler or measuring tape
sharp craft or utility knife
purse handle
beads and/or other decorative embellishments

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E

• Select a bathmat with a rubber backing; they’re available at any discount store. A mat with an extra-fluffy pile makes a unique bag.

• Determine the size and shape desired for the purse and make a cardboard template. Michele Beschen used the backing from an old 8" by 10" photo frame as her template.

• Lay the bathmat face-down and trace the template twice on the backing (figure A). Position the template in the corners for tracing to take advantage of the finished edges.

• Cut the pieces from the mat with a sharp craft or utility knife.

• Using a ruler or measuring tape, make evenly spaced marks around three sides of one bathmat piece (figure B). Michele Beschen made her marks every 1/2" starting from the top. Measure and mark the other piece; make sure to measure from the same point on the second piece so the marks line up when it's time to lace the pieces together.

• Set the leather punch to make a hole large enough to accommodate the leather lacing and punch a hole at each of the marks on both pieces (figure C).

• Cut two pieces of leather cord or lacing long enough to lace around all three sides of the bag. Michele Beschen cut hers 3’ to 4’ long to lace her 8" x 10" purse.

• Place the two bathmat pieces together with the fuzzy sides out and line up the holes. The lacing will go on the outside of the bag.
  
  
• Thread one leather lace through the top hole in one of the mat pieces from the inside out. Tie a knot on the inside of the bag to hold the lace in place. Thread and tie the other lace in the top hole of the other piece.

• Lace around the bag, crossing the laces in the same manner as lacing shoes (figure D). You also can lace the purse together by whip-stitching around the outside edge instead of crossing the laces.

• Attach a handle and embellish the purse with beads, pieces of costume jewelry or other touches (figure E).

Pre-made purse handles are easy to find at hobby or fabric stores. To B. Original and make your own, check out Michele Beschen's tips for making wooden purse handles.