I have a confession. I am not much of a purse user. I tend to overstuff pockets and forget things at home! So, I decided it was time to create a bag that was functional, pretty and me. I decided on a size which could accommodate a 10" tablet with ease and have the depth to carry keys, wallet, glasses, phone...you know, the necessities!
I like traditional leather that generally populates the bag market, but leather isn't really my style. I took a piece of plain, undyed denim and dyed the base layer a medium gray. Afterwards, I created new geometric screens to pattern the surface. With these in hand, I applied dark gray and purple thickened dyes randomly across the surface. A few streaks of turquoise added the final touch.
 |
| Painted Denim |
I shopped for purses that fit the size I was looking for and decided on the features that are important: external pocket, adjustable strap, internal pockets, bias binding, in seam piping, and a zipper closure. The bag would also have a three dimensional shape by inserting a gusset between the front and back panels. This purse was practically finished, in my head!
Cut, sew, fine tune and build. I have a great new cross body bag! It will be a pleasant change to have all my precious gathered in one place!
 |
| Front with exterior pocket |
 |
| Back view. Note the curved reinforcement at the side top. Its not only pretty, it adds strength! |
 |
| A look from above. I use a heavyweight zipper! Nothing is escaping. |
 |
| The side. Trim detail! |
 |
| Interior pockets and lining. Either pocket is large enough for an iPhone 6s. |
 |
| Label and lining |
I enjoyed the process so much, I constructed a second bag using indigo dyed denim with blue jeans gold trim and a brass zipper.
 |
| Denim Xbody front pocket |
 |
| The back |
 |
| Side! Check out that sweet piping! |
 |
| Overview |
 |
| Bright inside lining and pockets. Here you can see the nylon tape used to reinforce the back of the strap. |
 |
| Lining and label |
I will be selling these bags in my Etsy shop. Each one will be unique and can be customized, if you wish!
Shop ROX on Etsy
