Saks Fifth Avenue Inspired Bag

The "Akris Shoulder Bag"

Posted by Ms. Nikell

About

I saw this bag on the Saks Fifth Avenue website. I couldn't believe they wanted $1670 for it. Even if it is leather, it's still not worth $1670. I needed a light denim bag so I decided I'd recreate theirs for free right here at home.

So, you can go on over to their site and shell out $1670 for theirs. OR, you can stick around here and make one for free...it's up to you. =0)

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You Will Need (5 things)

  • Medium Chain Link
  • Button(s) /Zipperoptional
  • 1 yd Cotton Fabric Or Any Other Fabric You'd Likefor the lining
  • 1 yd Denim (old jeans can be used)
  • Large Lobster Clasp optional

Steps (16 steps, 120 minutes)

  1. 1

    All seam allowances 1/4" unless otherwise noted

    Out of both the lining and the outer fabric:

    Cut two rectangles that are 15 1/2" x 12 1/2"

  2. 2

    Starting with the lining:

    If adding pockets be sure to do this before you do anything else to the lining.

    Pin the two pieces right sides together. Sew all the way around.

    Leave an opening at the bottom for turning.

    Set that aside

  3. 3

    Now let's work on the outer part:
    We need to make the closure part first.

    Cut two small rectangles that are
    3/4" x 3"

    Fold one rectangle in half the long way and sew it up as illustrated. Leaving one end open. (1/8" seam allowance)

    Turn it right side out and press the seam flat.

    Repeat this process with the other piece.

  4. 4

    If using a lobster clasp follow this step. If using buttons sew a button to one piece and your button hole on the other piece.

    Thread the fabric through the lobster clasp as illustrated. Sew to secure it.

    Thread the other piece through your links as illustrated and sew to secure.

  5. 5

    Assemble the outer bag:

    Grab your outer pieces and put them right sides together.

    Position your two closure pieces 1/2"-1" from the top on each side of the bag & allow them to stick out about 1/2"(as shown to the left).

  6. 6

    Pin it together and sew down the left and right sides only leaving the bottom open.

  7. 7

    Make the base:

    Cut a rectangle that is 4 1/2" X 12 1/2"

    Line the side seams of the outer bag with the center of the short side of this rectangle. Carefully pin and sew.

    Note: While sewing this together, leave the needle down when you get to the corner, lift the presser foot and turn the fabric. This gives crisp corners rather than a rounded bottom.

  8. 8

    Now for the straps:

    Out of the outer fabric, cut two rectangles that are 2" x 22"

  9. 9

    Fold and press the edges in 1/2"

    Then, fold the entire strip in half and press.(don't forget to tuck the ends in)

    Sew down both sides for a finished strap. This will give you a strap that is 3/4" inches wide.

    Repeat this process with the other rectangle

  10. 10

    Position the straps 5" from each side of the bag and about 2" from the top.

    Pin and sew
    When sewing the straps, you want to start stitching about 1" from the top of the bag.

  11. 11

    Place the outer bag inside of the lining with the right sides together.

    Fold the straps down inside of the bag and Line the side seams up

    Pin all the way around and sew with a 1/2" seam allowance.

  12. 12

    -Remember that little opening you left at the bottom of the lining?

    Use it to turn your bag right side out.

    Almost there!! =0D

  13. 13

    -Put the lining inside of the bag and press it flat

  14. 14

    Stitch around the outer edge of the bag with a 1/8" seam allowance

  15. 15

    All done!!!

    Don't forget to post your version here

  16. 16

    If you have any questions feel free to message me and I'll get back to you ASAP!!

    Now go make that bag!!! ^_^