Good Housekeeping bag

This 1950s inspired clutch bag is both retro and “on trend” for today, combining the currently popular “oversized” shape with pleat detail at the front and a sleek curved flap. View 1 can be made using two or three contrasting fabrics to great effect and the flap is ideal for showcasing two big vintage buttons. View 2 has a plain front, a flat bow style trim on the flap and an option to attach a handle. A template is included for an interior patch pocket.

Bag finished dimensions: Height 9” (23cm) Width 16” (40cm)

Materials needed:

Materials for View 1:

Note: These quantities are based on a bag made from one fabric but with a contrast centre front panel. To make from more than two fabrics, you will need to vary the quantities below.

½ yd (50cm) of 44” (112cm) or 54” (140cm) wide main fabric

¼ yd (25cm) of 44” (112cm) or 54” (140cm) wide contrast fabric for centre front

½ yd (50cm) of 44” (112cm) wide lining fabric for bag lining and interior pocket

1/3 yd (30cm) of sew-in interfacing, at least 36” (92cm) wide for bag body (plus optional the same amount of batting)

¼ yard (25cm) of 36” (92cm) wide fusible interfacing for flap

2 magnetic snap sets (one for each end of flap) or use Velcro/sew-on snaps instead

2 large buttons approx 1¾” (38mm) diameter

Materials for View 2:

The quantities below are for a bag made in one fabric. To make a contrasting flap, you will need ¼ yd of 44” wide contrast fabric.

¾ yd (50cm) of 44” (112cm) or 54” (140cm) wide main fabric

½ yd (50cm) of 44” (112cm) wide lining fabric for bag lining and interior pocket

1/3 yd (30cm) of sew-in interfacing, at least 36” (92cm) wide for bag body (plus optional the same amount of batting)

¼ yard (25cm) of 36” (92cm) wide fusible interfacing for flap

2 magnetic snap sets (one for each end of flap) or use Velcro/sew-on snaps instead

1 button approx 1” (25mm) diameter to trim flap bow tab                           If attaching a handle, you will also need:

One purchased handle (approx 15”/38cm long)

Small square of fusible web (6” x 6”/15cm x 15 cm) for handle tabs