Transform a pair of vintage linen placemats into a retro style bag with bamboo handles. Only minimal sewing is required in this vintage style refashion.
I come across so many beautiful vintage linens in my op-shopping (thrifting) adventures, but I rarely seem to use them for their original purpose. These linen placemats with their geometric retro design, I’m particularly taken by. I’ve had them for years, waiting for the perfect project, but could never bare to cut into them.
Whilst tidying up my sewing space I uncovered a set of vintage bamboo bag handles, then the perfect project came to mind.
This bag only took me a few minutes to construct. With no cutting and only three seams required, one can be whipped up at short notice to match any outfit.
You will need:
- 2 x cotton or linen placemats (hemmed)
- 1 x set of cane/bamboo bag handles with screw in rod – similar to these
- Sewing machine and general sewing supplies
How to make a Handbag from Vintage Placemats:
1. Gather your supplies. Similar handles are available on Etsy and at craft supply stores if you don’t have vintage ones available.
2. Face placemats with right sides together and sew along dotted line. Make sure you double stitch the ends of seams.
3. On the top of the bag, iron over a hem of about 1cm (1/2″) then stitch top form a tube (leave ends open).
4. Turn inside out, and feed rod of handle through the tube.
All done!
Quite a professional finish for so little work. Now I just need an occasion to use it, and when I want my placemats back, all it will take is a little seam un-picking and a really good iron.
Do you have any old placemats that could do with a transformation?
Just lovely and so simple. Thanks!
What a quick and simple project. Well done once again Cinti xx
I love it! Can’t wait to look through my drawers. I may change the handle though. I like to wear my purse on my shoulder. Thank you for sharing this!
This looks so cute…and I absolutely love easy/quick patterns. I’m heading into my kitchen cabinet right now to see what I can find that will look good as a purse! Then I’ll give it a try. Thank you and God bless you bunches.
How about sewing 2 napkins together in the bottom and side seams for dividers.
genius!
lovely! where did you buy the cane handles like these?
They were actually thrifted vintage ones, but I have seen similar at craft stores.