Every Gal Needs a Cute Summer Clutch!

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You must have a handbag for all seasons and occasions!
{I learned that from my mom}
It’s hard to believe that summer is right around the corner! When the theme, Summer Fun was announced for this week’s American Crafter competition, I had so many ideas running through my head. But in the end, I knew this one was “it!” I have a couple weddings coming up this summer and I could really use a new clutch. Well, it just so happened that last weekend I picked up this brown, patent leather vintage clutch for a buck {yes, $1} at a garage sale.
I had a vision, an idea, a plan, but had no idea HOW or even IF it would work. So during my weekly trip to Hobby Lobby, I  picked out some super cute summery fabric and crossed my fingers, hoping for the best.
It was actually easier than I thought it would be! I just kind of figured it out as I went. And I think it turned out FABULOUS! Here is a peak. . . 
Now, here is how I did it. . .
First, I measured the fabric and cut it to size. I applied Mod Podge to the patent leather and placed the fabric on top to cover the purse {leaving a 1/2-inch bare at the top}, pulling tightly and smoothing out any bubbles. 

Now this was the tricky part. . . the sides and the top. I had no idea how to make the folds and edges look clean. But I did it! I applied the Mod Podge to the purse and really just wrapped it like a present, tucking and folding until it looked clean. 
After the fabric was secure and the undercoat of MP was dry, I applied a generous coat of MP on top of the fabric. It worked! Now to figure out how to decorate it. I had a couple of ideas in mind so while it was drying, I made the flowers.
Rosettes: {on the left} Cut a strip of fabric 3-inches wide. The length will depend on how large you want the flowers {the longer the strip, the larger the flower}. I used lengths between 1 and 2 feet. Twist the fabric somewhat tightly and wrap it around and around in a spiral fashion, securing with hot glue on the under side every other circle.
Layered Petal Flowers: {middle} Cut several flowers with 4 petals using different fabrics and sizes. Layer fabric flowers, beginning with the largest, a few at a time, securing with hot glue in the center and pinching to create shape. Basically you will “build” this flower, layer upon layer.
Arrangement: {far right} I then arranged the rosettes underneath and put the petal flower on top in the center.
A little measuring, cutting, Mod Podging {if that’s even a word}, folding, twisting and rolling and I had a FABULOUS summer clutch to take with me to those weddings! 
My new summer clutch! 
It turned out even better than I thought it would! And Mod Podging the fabric to the patent leather worked like a charm! The best part? It cost less than $5! You can’t find a price like that at any department store!
Now if you like my new purse, please, please, pretty please head over to Nap Time Crafters to cast your vote for round 3. Voting starts Friday night and ends Sunday night, so hurry! Next week is the FINAL ROUND!  I hope to make it!!
I was featured at

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102 thoughts on “Every Gal Needs a Cute Summer Clutch!”

  5. I love this!! Awesome idea and it turned out so so so cute!! I will no longer pass over the ugly purses at Goodwill/garage sales.

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  11. Woman, you have outdone yourself yet again! I seriously DROOOOLED over your clutch! Seriously, you need to start selling those babies! We'd go NUTS for them! I totally voted for you! And that's BEFORE I voted for me. Mmmm-hmmm, THAT'S how much I love that clutch!

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  16. I am your newest follower, Kassandra from Coffee and their Kisses. I seen this on American Crafter and it just blew me away! I don't even use clutches, but I want to buy one now to try this lol! I love crafting, and am obsessed with the fabric flowers.. so I'm excited to know how to make the layered flowers. Great idea hun! Thanks for sharing DIY instructions :o )

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  24. Now I am going to have to do that…..so darn stinking cute! I have summer fun events to attend also so this would be fun to carry!

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  27. The little clutch is just da bomb! You did a fabulous job on transforming! I *adore* it!
    Angie xo

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  35. Too adorable! I loved your choice of fabric! there isnt anything that I won't MP, so this is perfect for me to try!!

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  60. Oh my word that is the cutest and most genius thing I have ever seen–great job, I absolutely love it! The design is beautiful, the colors stunning, and everything put together so professionally!

    New follower–would love for you to stop by my blog as well! tinkeranniebelle.blogspot.com

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  66. ooo ooo oo I love this! I want it. I have to make it. The colors the fabric the shape i love it all!
    I pinned this of course. Thank for sharing

    A Mommy's life…with a touch of YELLOW
    tyandwhitneyulrich.blogspot.com

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  68. Oh wow! You did a gorgeous job on that clutch! I never would have thought of using Mod Podge to alter one — great idea that turned out so pretty!

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  71. Stopping in from the CSI link up. The flowers look fabulous–now I want to start putting them on everything!

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  78. As you can tell from all the great feedback you got, this is DARLING! I absolutely love the fabric you used–perfect for summer. I shared your post on my Friday Favorites over at Calico and Cupcakes. I'm going to go on the hunt for an old patent leather clutch! Thank you for sharing the inspiration and idea.

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  82. Hey Jen! I'm your 1000th follower! I kind of expected balloons to come flying out of my computer but its ok, technology is kind of tricky to keep up with. The clutch is what brought me here, but everything else is what made me stay! Adorable stuff!

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  87. Oh. My. WORD. I absolutely LOVE this!!! So cute! Thank you for sharing the how-to!! I need to do some serious fabric shopping. Where DO you find the fab fabric? JoAnns? Hobby Lobby?? I just need to go play. :)

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  89. Too cute! I really love it and a clutch like this would make great presents too!!!! Well, that's after I make half a dozen for myself :)

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  93. I saw your beautiful clutch on Craft Gossip and had to try a it for myself in a simpler wallet version. I am posting a tutorial on it, but am giving you full credit for the inspiration and am linking to your wonderful tute. I am new to blogging and hope this is OK.
    ricochethandbags@hotmail.com

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  95. Fantastic! I bought myself a $0.59 snap-wallet from Goodwill today that I'm going to slather up with Elmer's/water and some pretty fabric. Great idea!

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  98. Hey, love your idea, and your blog! I was actually thinking of doing the same thing but on a larger scale with a bigger purse. How well has it held up over time? Just curious to know before I tackle this project. Thanks!

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  101. Hi Jen! Saw your project featured along with mine today at Tip Junkie – congrats! I had to stop by to say hello and get a better look of your beautifully executed DIY! Love this – now I will grab a vintage clutch next time I’m thrifting or yardsale-ing and try to make one as cute as yours! I am your newest follower – your lovely blog is so great! Please stop by my blog to say hello and follow me back if you would like to keep in touch :) Heather @ settingforfour.blogspot.com

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  102. Pingback: Make your own cute summer clutch. - Mod Podge Rocks

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