Sewing Binding on a Purse

Sewing binding on a purse is easy when your instructions are clear. The most difficult project can become a cinch with good directives. One issue that many budding purse designers face is sewing binding to a firm bodied handbag.

While this is not a difficult task, many handbag designers trip up in this area because they do not have clear instructions on how to attach the binding. This method of attaching the binding is used in making traditional straw bags in the Bahamas as well as the Teri Monique hand painted handbags.

To attach the binding one has to first determine what kind of binding is going to be used. While some purse makers use straw or leather, a favorite binding for handbags is webbing; a thick ribbon-like material which comes in a variety of colors and sizes. Webbing is also commonly used for creating straps for handbags. So in addition to having the handbag bound with the webbing, coordinating straps can also be used to further accentuate a bag.

Here are a few quick tips in applying your binding:

1. Select your binding material 2. Fold the end over & stitch down for a finished look and to reduce fraying 3. Fold binding in half lengthwise to form a channel 4. Slip channel over your fabric covered chipboard and sew 5. To complete the process, cut off excess binding 6. Turn the end of the binding under & stitch in place

Here's what you want to avoid when sewing your binding:

• Using a webbing that is too narrow to manage • Using binding materials that are thick and difficult to bend • Uneven sewing- keep presser foot at the edge of the webbing when stitching • Avoid puckering- pull webbing slightly while stitching

Now you can begin creating your fabulous firm bodied purses with a neatly applied binding.