I have been lusting after making a red leather purse – really lusting! Now while I have sewn a TON of bags in my time, I have shyed shieed not attempted a purse with a frame before.
On my blog wanderings last month I came across this website NicoleMdesign.com.au She has some fabulous purses and I fell in love with this one 
I corresponded with Nicole ( well okay – I don’t really know how big her business is, so it could have been an employee too!) All emails and inquiries were handled quickly and in a very friendly manner. I ordered one entire kit and one extra set of handles. The reason I ordered an entire kit was to see what materials she uses in the interior of the purse. I know what I would use and how I would sew it, but I wanted an expert opinion.
It came quickly – having not ordered from Australia before I was uncertain as to how long it would be in transit. I think it was 2 weeks between ordering and the red flag going up on the mailbox. The instructions are detailed and the pattern easy to understand. Here is the first line of her instructions on how to use the instructions.
DON”T PANIC
Cute!
This purse is rated with 4 “flowers” which means it is for someone with advanced sewing skills. She has lots of other purses with different ratings on her site.
Now off to find the right red leather- any suggestions?
haven’t started on it yet - I haven’t found the right red leather yet, AND I have 4 UFO’s that are screaming at me to finish them. Sigh, some one remind me WHY I wanted another job! The good news is is that the new barn is next to done- with any luck my babies (can you call 300 four hundred pound sows babies?) will be happy in their new home by the end of the weekend. My life will be easier and the sows will be happier!
{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
Please tell me you’ve read some Douglas Adams and understand the Don’t Panic! reference?
What great timing. Last night I posted my favorite purse which happens to be a Nicole Millalieu. I’ve made tons of this one pattern. Some for me and many others as gifts. I had no idea she had a website. You can bet I’m going to be checking it out. Thanks!!
Great to have stumbled across your feedback!! (Quite accidentally!!!)
Good luck with the purse. My advice is to make it up in fabric first, before you attempt the leather…. leather has its own little quirks that make the job a little trickier than working with fabric.
Re: “Don’t Panic”… I really didn’t mean to do a Douglas Adams reference. Although I read the books as a kid, I can’t remember what the phrase referred to. I just meant “It LOOKS harder than it actually IS!”
You SEW girl!!!
Connie, I can’t wait to see your purse!! Did you buy any leather from the leather and suede skin shop in NYC? I have that red “alligator” leather that I plan on making a purse out of but I’m so busy using my Paron’s wools that there’s been no movement on a purse. Can’t wait to see yours!!!
Isn’t that a cute purse? I have an inexpensive store bought one in that shape and it goes well w my jeans and dressy clothes. I feel sassy when I carry the little bag. I don’t think I’d have the patience to make the little diddy but hats off to you if you do! by the way mine came with a metal flower pin that can be taken on and off on the side and I think it would be cute to find a vintage piece of costume jewelry to change the look.
Your blog is fun! You are multi-faceted! a jewel indeed!