Molly's Sketchbook: Very Pretty Japanese Handbag

This lovely little handbag is so whismical and cheery, it's the perfect reminder that spring is just around the corner (even though it really doesn't feel like it here on the east coast!).  When we received these  Large Antique Gold handles (which come with the pattern templates for the purse pictured above) from Japan, I knew I wanted to make one right away to help chase away the winter blues.  Our friend Emma of Emma Creations was kind enough to translate the pattern from Japanese for me so that I could pass it on to you!  (Thanks Emma!)

I, like so many of you out there, am totally sick of all the winter weather so I really wanted to make this pretty handbag as Springy as possible.  I used our Kiyohara Canvas in yellow for the exterior of the bag, this lightweight canvas is true pleasure to work with, plus, it's such a fantastic buttery color!  For the lining I used a very beautiful floral from Anna Maria Horner's new Lilttle Folks Voile collection and I love what a pretty surprise it is when I open the bag.

If you'd like to make one for yourself you can order the handles and pattern templates right here and follow my translated instructions at our Very Pretty Japanese Handbag Project Journal. Enjoy!-- Molly

Comments

[Stacy]

Such a Lovely purse! Love the peek-a-boo inside flowers.

[Jennifer]

Very pretty! I love the clasp and the fabric inside, very sweet.

[Molly Wilson]

From one Molly to another Molly--it is great!! Somebody must have told you how crazy I am about handbags, tote bags, or any kind of bags. Thanks for sharing this.

[LindaSonia]

Golly, this handbag is delightful!!! Love it and those clever handles.

[Melanie @ Whimsical Creations]

So pretty!

[Emily Clark]

Just beautiful!!! Thank you so much for sharing. I love this blog!

[Kristina]

Oh how pretty! I want to make one now!

[jodi]

can the hardware and pattern be purchase in the store or only online? i'd love to come in and purchase fabric and hardware at the same time

[purl bee]

Hi Jodi,
We carry the handbag hardware at the shop too, however, you should give the store a call before you come in to make sure we haven't sold out in last couple of days. If we have they can let you know when we'll be getting them in again. You can reach the shop at (212) 420-8798, M-F Noon -7pm; Sat & Sun Noon - 6pm

[anne]

Ah! The handle! Perfect!

[Stephanie]

Beautiful!

I'm wondering if I can squeeze this project in. I really need something that reminds me of the warm sunny weather that is soon to come.

[In Honor Of Design]

absolutely love this bag! what a fun idea:)

[Kristen]

the handbag is a fun project and a good learning experience for a beginner sewer. Really enjoyed making it.

[Faith]

This bag is absolutely adorable. I love the color coordination between the exterior and interior as well as the off-center clasp that holds the handles together. Wonderful design and beautiful execution of said design. :]

[Jen]

I am having trouble finding the fabric on your website. Where can I find it? I would love to make this bag!