Recycled Hardcover Book Purse

Project by Caitlin Phillips from Washington D.C.

Caitlin has been an avid reader and book collector her whole life. In fact, one of her first jobs was working at a used bookstore. Caitlin makes purses out of her personal collection of books when she’s not working as a knife salesperson.

Materials:

old hardcover book
old button to match
craft knife
glue fabric
metal handle frames
beads
grosgrain ribbon
braided ribbon trim
cardboard
sewing machine
pins
scissors
paper

Steps:

1. Cut the pages out of book with knife.

2. Select fabric to match book and iron it.

3. Measure book's height and width, add 1 inch to each, and use those measurements to make a triangular pattern for the side pieces.

4. Cut main lining piece, four side pieces (half and half), one pocket piece, and a bottom piece out of fabric.

5. Pin side-pieces together, right sides in.

6. Select beads for the handle, and string them on frame. Fold four 2-inch pieces of grosgrain ribbon over handle frame feet and pin in place.

7. Find old button to match book. Thread through a piece of ribbon and make a loop closure to fit it.

8. Sew two pinned triangular side pieces.

9. Sew ribbons on handles and button closure. Glue handles and button closures into book cover; allow to dry.

10. Glue ribbon trim to outside of book.

11. Iron side pieces right side out, with 1/2 inch on all sides ironed in, and pin to hold the fold.

12. Glue bottom of triangular side-pieces onto book spine. Cut cardboard to the size of the spine. Glue into place.

13. Glue side pieces onto book cover, one side at a time.

14. Iron main lining with 1/2-inch seam around each edge.

15. Glue main lining into book.

16. Cut another piece of cardboard the same size of spine, cover with fabric, and glue into bottom.

Disclaimer: This pattern may be used for personal use only. It cannot be used for resale or copied for distribution.

Website: www.rebound-designs.com

E-mail: caitlin@rebound-designs.com