Helen Howes Textiles

Free Tutorial - Alexander Purse


A moment of inspiration... And some nice linen samples, and so on...

Start with four pieces of fabric, approximately square.. The sample here was made from linen "makers samples" about 7 by 6-1/2 inches, and I think this is quite big for one of these. I used three of the same fabric and one for the lining in a different pattern - this is a good project for slightly heavier fabrics, of which there are some seriously nice ones about...

You also need a nylon zip and some matching or toning 1-inch bias binding, a little piece of tape or ribbon, and a split-ring (key ring)

And threads, and a sewing machine, of course

Fold two of the pieces in half and sew them nicely to either side of the zip (no raw edges!). Pull the slider out of the way of the foot as you work..
Use your Zip Foot!


Do this both sides.. The sewing is shown outside and inside, and you can see that the second row holds the zip tapes firmly in place, no catching...

Trim the front of the purse to an oval (shown) or a circle, trimming off any excess of zip in the process.. Make sure the zip is closed at this point...
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My address is:-
Helen Howes
Helen Howes Textiles
1 Castell Farm Cottages, Thurlton Road, Raveningham, Norfolk NR14 6NY. UK
07914 676182
Email me here - helen@helenhowestextiles.co.uk
I prefer that you email me (at any time), or phone between 3 and 6 (UK time) most days