Placemat Purses

About Placemat Handbags

Although designer handbags are a coveted accessory, creative crafters and designers have discovered more ways than ever before to create unique handbags. Along with various fabric bags, purses made from recycled candy wrappers, seatbelt purses and cigar box bags, the placemat bag is a unique accessory that has made its way into the handbag genre.

Placemat purses can be made from cloth or quilted placemats. They are also made from vinyl or sealed placemats, which are preferred by some women because they are water-resistant, durable, and can be easily cleaned by wiping with a damp cloth. Cloth versions offer a sense of sophistication, however, and are also popular. Placemat bags are made with individually designed or store-bought placemats, and may include other materials as well. The purse is usually lined and is designed in a boxy or tote style.

Designs and Styles

Contrasting ribbon adds a pretty touch.

There are many different variations on the actual design of the bag -- from the placemat pattern, the use of contrasting or complementary placemats, the incorporation of other fabrics, and the various purse handles. Purse handles may be ribbon, wood, leather, beaded styles, resin, acrylic, or other materials. The most common handle types are medium curved handles, although rounded handles are seen on smaller bags.

Sizes range from mini and small purses to oversize totes utilizing additional materials. Embellishments such as beads, embroidery, fringe accents, charms, ribbon, and other touches add a unique splash.

Where to Buy Placemat Purses

Placemat purses can be so varied; it's almost guaranteed you'll have a highly original or one of a kind bag when you carry a placemat bag on your arm. The following shops sell placemat purses, either in current handmade designs immediately available for purchase, or custom made to your specifications:

• Leah's Looks: This retailer offers a number of cute, affordable placemat accessory styles with ribbon handles and Velcro closure. Monogramming is available for extra personalization.

• Decorated Diva: Just in time for the holidays, the Decorated Diva sells a gorgeous textured forest green creation with a jacquard holiday ribbon handle and magnetic snap enclosure. Several other styles are also available.

• Basement Bags: A large selection of purses from placemats on this site - the styles are fun and feminine, but still classy. Many handle styles are available, and cute touches like sassy fringe or sweet ribbon embellishment add great touches. This site takes custom orders, and the purse order includes free monogramming.

• Lollipop Stitches: This site also takes custom orders, although you will probably love one of the cute styles they already have available.

• Becca Lynne's: Designed from ribbed placemats, these large bags are slightly different in design due to their rectangular tote shape.

Making Your Own Purse from a Placemat

Even if you're not the craftiest person, placemat purses are one of the simpler designs you can try. This can be a highly affordable way to create purses for different seasons and occasions. The basic supplies you will need include:

• One or more placemats (depending on the size and style you prefer)
• Coordinating thread
• Ribbon or purse handles
• Fabric for lining the purse
• A magnetic snap or Velcro enclosure.
• Beads, buttons, ribbon, or other embellishments are optional.

There are several craft blogs and other sites that offer free patterns for placemat bags. Listed below are a few resources to get you started:

• Jaroline Creative: Free printable placemat purse instructions - this is for a square style with plastic or wood handles.

• Placemat Tote Instructions: Also from Jaroline, this is for a larger style. Requires two placemats.

• Dritz offers free purse instructions made from cloth placemats and wood or plastic handles. Smaller version of the bags.

• Amy's Favorite's: Classy placemat tote-style purse instructions with ribbon handle and cloth placemat.

• Michelle Mitchell's Scribbet: This crafty blog features instructions for a nice size tote and gorgeous placemat pics.

Check out LoveToKnow Crafts for more information on free purse patterns!

Whether you decide to purchase or make your own placemat-inspired purse, you'll have a gorgeous and original accessory at an affordable price.