Making a flat handle for a purse

In a previous post, we discussed how to make a fabric strap for small purses and wristlets. This week, we are looking at how to construct a flat-handled strap that is reinforced with polypropylene webbing.

1. Cut your fabric 3" wide, at your desired purse-strap length. Be sure to leave room for stitching the strap into the seam.



2. Fold the fabric in half, inside out.



3. Stitch a 3/8" seam along the open side. (Note: a 1/2" won't give you much wiggle room.)



4. Use a turning tool (pictured) to turn the fabric outside in.



5. Press the fabric so the seam is on one side.



6. Put a safety pin through your length of polyproplene (so you can pull it through the fabric).



7. Feed the polyproplene through the fabric.



8. Stitch a 1/4" seam along both sides of the fabric.



9. Attach the strap to the purse body. (Hint: it is easier if you attach the straps into seams, otherwise you have to finish the ends.)