How to Make a Shoulder Strap Purse Out of a Place Mat
- 1). Lay the place mat face down on a flat surface and put the Velcro across the short end. This is for measuring the right amount of Velcro. Cut the Velcro so it is 1 inch shorter than the short edge of the place mat. When the Velcro is centered on the place mat you will have 1/2 inch excess place mat showing on each side. The edge of the place mat will be used for a seam allowance. The Velcro hook and loop should still be stuck together in this step.
- 2). Separate the Velcro by pulling gently from one end.
- 3). Place one piece of the Velcro on each of the short ends of the place mat with the hook and loop facing up.
- 4). Measure 1/4 inch in all of the way along the place mat's short edge and pin the Velcro to the place mat. This will put the Velcro down just a little bit so it will be hidden when your bag is closed.
- 5). Fold the place mat in half so the Velcro edges will line up. Make sure the hook and loop sections of the Velcro are going to meet and catch. It is best to check before continuing because if the Velcro is not placed correctly before sewing it is a lot of work to rip it out and do over.
- 6). Set the sewing machine on a small straight stitch and sew all of the way around each piece of Velcro.
- 7). Place the nylon strap over your shoulder and adjust it to the length you want the purse strap to be. A yard is the average length for a shoulder bag strap but adjust it to the length you find most comfortable.
- 8). Cut the strap with scissors. If it is fraying put a drop or two of super glue on the ends and let them dry completely.
- 9). Fold the place mat so the right sides are together. The Velcro will be lined up but it will be on the outside so it does not touch.
- 10
Slide one end of the strap inside the place mat and center it with the one end of the Velcro. The end of the strap should stick out slightly past the edge of the place mat and the length of the strap should be tucked inside the place mat. - 11
Pin the end of the strap to the place mat beside the end of the Velcro. Repeat for the other end of the strap. - 12
Sew both ends of the place mat closed. Sew back over the place where the strap passes through the seam at least two more times to anchor the strap. - 13
Turn the place mat right side out.
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