By Julie on June 6th, 2024 This site contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links.
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School’s out for summer, making it the perfect time to tackle a quick and easy machine embroidery project! In this post, I’ll show you how to make a custom embroidered clutch using your sewing and embroidery machine. It’s quick, easy, and the perfect accessory for any summer outfit. This particular design offers a fantastic opportunity to showcase your personal style while having a chic accessory for carrying your cell phone, credit card, cash, and a few other essentials.Also – you can probably make it from some small scraps of fabric that you already have laying around.
I first debuted this project at the Everything Embroidery Market trade show in the spring of 2024 and got to witness 15 of my students put together these little cuties. Now, it’s your turn to create your own!
One of the reasons why I like this little clutch is because it’s such a great size. It’s big enough to fit all your essentials, but small enough to carry around without feeling weighed down.
I also like the versatility of the design. You can completely customize the embroidery design and then coordinate the outer and inner fabric color scheme to compliment the embroidery design. Heck – you can make a bunch of them to compliment all your outfits.
Why make this custom embroidered clutch with your kids or grandkids
Of course – you can certainly make this project by yourself – for yourself. But it’s also a great one to make with the young people in your life. There are so many reasons why this is a great sewing/embroidery project to make with your kids or grandkids.
It’s a fun and creative activity that will keep them entertained for a little while.
It teaches basic sewing skills such as cutting, pinning, and stitching.
It introduces the concept of machine embroidery and how it can be used to personalize items.
It allows for individual creativity, as each clutch can be customized with different fabrics and designs.
The end result is a useful and stylish accessory that they can proudly show off to their friends!
How to make the custom embroidered clutch
Materials You’ll Need
Embroidery and sewing machine (or a combo machine)
Step-by-Step Instructions to make the custom embroidered clutch
Choose and Customize Your Design
Start by picking out a machine embroidery design you love that will fit onto the front of the purse. A design about 4″ wide and 6″ tall will fit well. The finished front of the purse will be about 6.5” wide and approximately 8” tall, so be mindful of the size of the embroidery design you choose.
Consider customizing the embroidery design by adding a name, monogram or initial.
The following four embroidered designs are included in The Party Clutch Kit. I digitized them specifically for this project.
Cut Pattern on Fold
Cut out the pattern on the fold of the fabric. The pattern already incorporates 1/2″ of seam allowance. There is no need to add any more.
You will need to do this for:
2 pieces of outer fabric
2 pieces of lining fabric
2 pieces of interfacing
Add Marks
Transfer the dot on the pattern to the wrong sides of both the purse lining pieces and the outer fabric pieces using a disappearing ink fabric pen.
Fuse Interfacing
Fuse the Interfacing to the wrong side of the front and back of the outer fabric.
Prep Embroidery Hoop
Hoop a piece of sticky back tearaway stabilizer with the shiny side up. Score the inside edge of the hoop with a pin and peel away the paper.
Position Purse on Front of Hoop
Use the folding method to align the center of the purse front with the center of the embroidery hoop. Ensure the design is oriented the correct way. Keep in mind that the notched corners in the fabric are at the bottom of the purse.
Stitch Out Your Design
Begin stitching out your chosen design on the purse front.
Stitch the Bottom Edge
With right sides together, pin and then stitch the bottom edges of the outer fabric and the lining together leaving a 1/2″ seam allowance.
Press
Press seams open.
Stitch the Sides
With right sides together, stitch the sides of the outer fabric and the lining from the bottom notch to the dots using 1/2″ seam allowance . Repeat with the lining fabric.
Press
With the outer fabric, press the seam allowance open and continue pressing around the top edge ½”. Repeat with the lining fabric.
Stitch the Corners
Pin the bottom corners perpendicularly and stitch them closed for both the outer fabric and the lining.
Stitch the Lining to the Bag
Place the lining inside the outer fabric. Pin them together along the top edge and top stitch as close as possible to the top edge to secure the outer fabric to the lining.
Apply Glue to the Frame Front
Apply glue inside the top edge of the purse fabric. Keep in mind that the front of the frame is the side without the strap hooks.
Feed Purse into Frame Front
Using a screwdriver, feed the top edge of the purse fabric into the frame from both the front and the back. Repeat the gluing and feeding process for the back side of the frame.
Screw Down Frame
Screw the frame tightly around the front and back of the purse.
Clean Up!
Ensure the frame is securely screwed down around the front and back. Wipe off any excess glue with some warm water and a towel.
Congratulations! You’ve just created a beautiful, personalized machine-embroidered clutch.
Add Strap (Optional)
If desired, add a purse strap that can clip onto the purse frame for added convenience. There are many different inexpensive purse straps that you can coordinate with the style of your purse.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the size of the finished clutch?
The finished front of the purse will be about 6.5” wide and approximately 8” tall.
Can I customize the embroidery design?
Absolutely! You can choose any design you like and even add personalization, such as a name or monogram.
Is this a suitable project for beginners?
Yes, this project is great for beginners to learn basic sewing skills and machine embroidery techniques. However, adult supervision may be necessary for younger children.
Do I need any special equipment?
Aside from an embroidery and sewing machine, you will also need a purse frame, screwdriver, and appropriate embroidery design. However, the Party Clutch Kit includes all of these materials for your convenience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this adorable clutch is not only a stylish accessory but also a fun and educational project to make with your kids or grandkids. The unique size and customizable design make it a versatile piece that can complement any outfit. So gather your supplies and get ready to create a one-of-a-kind clutch that you’ll love to show off!
Want to remember this? Save “How to Make a Custom Embroidered Clutch” on your favorite Pinterest board.
“Hi Julie, I’m not new to sewing in any way, but brand new to embroidery. I want you to know that your [Master the Machine] course has de-mystified it SOOOO much! You are a clear, concise teacher who does an outstanding job in demonstrating and explaining. Plus, the cost of the course was an exceptional deal. Thank you!! I look forward to your Essential Essentials course!”
