I made this out of a pair of men's pants I found at the thrift store for six dollars. Overall the total cost was under ten dollars.
When buying the pants don't look at the size or style; just colour and texture.
Also if there is any step you don't understand or have trouble with, leave me a comment/message and I will explain it better.
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1
Turn pants inside out and lay flat on floor after ironing and cleaning them.
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2
Cut off one pant leg at the crotch.
(If you mess up making this the first time you always have the second leg. You will also have some daisy dukes but I don't recommend wearing them.)
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3
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4
Fold and measure out the size of your bag how you like it. Remember that the top flap is an inch or two shorter then the bag.
Also try to line up the outer seam in the middle of the bag and flap.
(You will have a pointed flap, but just pin that into a straight line)
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5
Cut off the excess fabric (leaving seam allowance) and pin together.
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6
Sew seams together using zig-zag stitch and hem the flap using a straight stitch. Square the corners as well.
(google this if you don't know how, or check out threadbangers)
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7
Remove two belt loops off the pants.
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8
Sew the belt loops on the inside of the bag, on either side of the seams. They will be used as loops for the shoulder strap.
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9
Cut off the button hole and button in straps. Be careful not to damage the zipper because it can be useful for decorating later.
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10
Sew the button strap to the center of the bag, and the button hole strap to the center of the flap.
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11
Now sew on decoration to flap. You can silkscreen or stencil a pattern, or you can use a goonies patch like I did. You can also add any pockets/zippers/pen holders/ etc...
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12
Now make a strap out of your roll of twine. Cut pieces of twine about twice your arm length then braid, macramé, or just tie knots at equal distances to form your strap. I left some off the end that I plan to bead later.
(If you are having trouble finding twine at craft stores, like I did, check out your local dollar store.)
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Rachel C. Wed, 20 Jul 2011 04:36:37 +0000
Question: Has anyone done this purse with a lining? I have actually never sewed before, and am going to make this purse my first project, but I would like to add a lining, and I'm not 100% sure I know what I'm doing. If anyone can help it would be much appreciated!
Ella Mon, 30 May 2011 15:07:10 +0000
This is a great tutorial! I've been looking all over the place for messenger bags for my sister, because she has been wanting one for about 3 years. and When I saw this and how simple it was to make, I almost died with excitement! and it's a cute and natural look, I LOVE IT!!! :D
Lemon Jelly Mon, 23 Aug 2010 14:36:13 +0000
O my goodness!!! I love it!!! i want to get up and make one right now!
LastKoalaBear Sun, 21 Jun 2009 20:21:51 +0000
i would rather have this bag then the rich stuff
i love this bag so much! great idea
Ezme Wed, 28 Jan 2009 07:57:08 +0000
i LOVE it!
Vicky Ninja Wed, 23 Jul 2008 19:42:31 +0000
Yaaaay!! I finally got around to making one! Love how the seam is down the middle of the bag. Thanks for the how to ^^
Expired Sanity Fri, 20 Jun 2008 19:26:27 +0000
Wow, thanks for all the favourites and the making this a featured projects guys! <3
Cat Morley Tue, 17 Jun 2008 14:12:09 +0000
It looks great!
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