DIY Clutch: Locked and Printed

Here's one of two projects that I've been working on. Remember this retro yardage? I finally got around to creating something with it ... I had to be certain given the grain of how it was printed and since there was only a small amount.

This material calls an obvious attention to the (60s styled) silhouettes of people printed in the center. I love each person's expression on the print as it fades slightly into the background. My favourite part of the print would be the top portion, which is in a larger scale than the bottom or vice versa depending on how one positions the print to cut.

Initially, I was leaning toward upcycling a fun T-shirt, using this print as an embellishment, or even make a graphic styled mini skirt, however those concepts were overshadowed by the urge to produce a clutch! I felt strongly about the amount of uses that I would get out of this fabric being a clutch bag instead of an adornment on a Tee.

Fortunately, I did manage to salvage a small remnant after all was sewn, and complete. Perhaps there's more to create from this power to the people material, (as I've fittingly nicknamed this yardage).

      Click images to enlarge

Details:
I've acquired a few new trimmings from wholesale markets recently and had the desire to use a turn-lock closure on this particular bag.

The look: retro, but with a modern aesthetic, hence the metal luster and lining selection. The lining is silk shantung with interlining used for padding. As an extra finish I added studs to the front and back bottom of the clutch. And since the process took a bit longer than I had anticipated I decided to just provide you with behind the scenes snapshots!  

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After an ironing session the clutch was ready to fill with a good book, a favourite lip colour, and accessories! Of course, an outfit donning this special creation will come very soon ...

  

Many of you asked several times in the past if I sell any of my designs. I used to make and sell handbags as well as apparel to boutiques, however at the moment I do not. Perhaps, I will rethink it in the future when I feel I have more time to spare!