Paper Clutch Purse

This is a favorite project that I came across recently. It was a paper clutch swap and this is the one I made.

Use the template to copy a front and back printed on 8.5" x 11" cardstock. I covered both sides of the templates with matching paper.

Template

The front and back is adhered to a color coordinated paper bag. Before gluing, I trimmed the top of the bag with decorative scissors and folded down the top, inside, to fit just below the handles.

As an afterthought, I used the cut-outs of the handles to make inspirational word tags and attached to the top with ballchain. Cutting the handles was the hardest part because I didn't have a good exacto knife. I later learned some of the better crafters first used a small circle punch to start the cut-out, then finished cutting straight across with a blade. (I know a machine will do it now, but this is the part of crafting where I prefer handmade to machine made.)

I embellished the clutch with large colored eyelets using a Crop-a-dile, added three strands of paper beads made with the same paper (coated with Mod Podge) and the layered paper flower. I added clear Swarvoski crystals to the front. I used a silver leaf pen around the word tags to try to hide my imperfection when cutting out.

As a swap gift I made a matching paper bead bracelet. My note to the recipient was inside the folded noteholder with the quilled flower on the front.

Reduce the size to make a little girl's purse for party favors or to decorate at a party. I made this Easter theme clutch for my 2-y/o granddaughter and personalized it.

I hope this inspires you to make something with paper today!

Enjoy :)

~Molly


P.S. Remember, imperfection adds character!