Make a zipper purse
with me
Join me as you make our own slow-stitched zippered purse.
Beautiful, fun, creative all while being a practical make.
Let’s do some stitching together!
What you’ll learn:
Working with colour & pattern for your purse fabrics
Slow hand stitching
Inserting a zipper - fully hand stitched
Sewing a fully-lined zipper purse, with a gusset
Are you a little
scared of sewing zips?
I’ll walk you step-by-step through how to insert a zip into your purse, so you can overcome the fear of making a mistake.
After years of not being happy with the way my zips looked when sewn into my purses I experimented and found this wonderful way to make them neat, as well as much easier to sew.
I’ll share how I approach the details of working with up-cycled fabrics, creating marks with my stitching and work it into my daily creative practise.
The wonderful thing about this project is that it can become something you do during the moments of making, but then it will be a practical piece - perfect to carry around your next project!
“I absolutely love this class! You are such a joy to watch and listen to. I’ve had lots of years of sewing and embroidery experience, but still enjoy learning from others. Thank you so much for making these classes to share with others.”
Debbie
“Thank you for the wonderful refreshing inspiration. At this time it is just what I needed to help me feel calm, yet inspired and motivated. I love the imperfections and style of your art. I am a watercolor artist and love the imperfections, random, abstract, uncontrolled marks, much like the fabrics dyed and wrinkled and imperfectly creating a look all of its own, that I want to touch!
It makes me smile inside and out. Thank you again”
Faye
What tools and materials do I need?
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The beauty of this project is that you can use special scraps to create a work of art.
You don't need a lot:
cotton (or linen) lining approx 50 x 40cm / 20" x 16"
outer fabric of fine / thin cotton approx 50 x 40cm / 20" x 16"
fabric scraps (natural fibres are best) - silk, cotton, linen, hemp, thin wool
some quilt wadding or flannelette. Something quite thin is best. Same size as the lining.
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A ZIP 18cm / 7" long. You can use a new one, but you might also be able to find a second hand one and unpick it from something else.
If it's too long, let me know as I can show you how to shorten it to the right size.
You won't need the zip until the second week.
NEEDLES:
An embroidery needle is great. Something with a thin, long-ish shaft, and an eye big enough for your Sashiko or embroidery thread.
A smaller eyed needle that is good for sewing machine thread. This can be shorter and thinner, with a sharp point.PINS - Whatever you have is good
REGULAR PAPER GLUE
Embroidery and fabric scissors, as well as paper scissors.
Tape measure
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It’s called wadding or padding, and you can (probably) buy it from your local craft or sewing shop. Big box sewing shops will definitely have it, but I hope you’ll try your local place first.
You can find synthetic, cotton, wool, bamboo, as well as blends of these. They come in different weights (thicknesses) and what you chose will depend on how warm you want the quilt. -
I wrote a blog post here for some ideas to help, but a collection of embroidery and Sashiko threads are good.
These can be in an assortment of colours, or one colour only. I like to gather threads in different weights in a similar hue, or same weight in a harmonious colours. (Read a little more about colours here).
You'll also need a fine regular sewing machine thread. This is best in a colour paler than your lining. Off-white is often the best if you're not sure what to go with.
Ready to join me?
add some mindful making to your life
join now
$67 AU
converts to approx. $43US / £33
Step-by-step how to make a zippered gusset purse
Become more confident with auditioning your fabrics, so you can use different colours and patterns for your projects.
Hand stitch your own unique purse using precious fabrics
Learn slow stitch techniques
On-demand course, watch any time and from any (internet-connected) device.
How to shorten or lengthen a zip.
My way of working with process over perfection means that you’ll be able to see your purse fabric evolve under your hands.
You’ll be creating something meaningful, beautiful and with purpose. You might also find a new addiction for perfect gifting makes.
Hi, I’m Ellie
I’m a textile artist & maker, a writer, photographer & soul-sharer.
I have online courses, in-person workshops and 1-to-1 sessions
Are you ready to delve into the gentle, good, slow work of making, creating and sharing?
Let’s make a pot of tea and share our stories together.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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My online courses are housed on my teaching platform ThriveCart.
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You’ll get lifetime access to all my courses, and can watch them whenever you want.
If I ever remove my courses from online, you'll be able to download them to watch whenever you want.
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Straight away. After you purchase, you'll be sent an email with details on how to access the course on my online teaching platform Teachable.
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Yes. If you can thread a needle and stitch a stitch then you can join us.
I'll show you how to hand sew a zipper in, and be there to troubleshoot if you have any worries on the day.
You'll finish the course having the confidence to keep making more purses and work with zips again.
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Due to the digital nature of my courses I don’t offer a refund.
However if you feel the course isn’t as described, then please contact me.
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Oh, yes, send me an email and I’ll help you out. ellie@petalplum.com.au
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My online courses are all sold in Australian $. I have written US and UK currency; but please note this is an approx and your bank may charge a different conversion. Your credit card will automatically work out their conversion.
