Want a handbag in an exact color and style? Make it! 2023 is my year to stretch my bagmaking skills to the next level, and I did so making the Mara Clutch by the Bagmaking Academy.
Here is my video highlighting the versatility of the Mara Clutch!
Below are my two looks using the reversible flap. One is a daytime version in black, the evening version has the bold, contrast pink flap:
Use the bold, pink metallic for an edgy, evening look!
The Mara Clutch is a very versatile bag which features a unique, padded handle, reversible flap, and a chain which can be easily removed. The wearer decides...handbag or clutch. For this bag I used a matte, black vinyl with a slight, pebble texture and a gorgeous, shiny, metallic pink for the contrast. The reversible flap magic is made possible with the use of Chicago screws, although if a reversible flap is not desired, rivets can be used instead.
Opt for the black flap for a subdued, professional look.
Choose to use the strap for over-the-shoulder carrying or...
Opt for no strap for a comfortable clutch.
Here are some closeups. The Chicago screws were used to attach the flap. Keep a small screwdriver handy to remove the screws and reverse the flap, although you probably won't need it because they're hand tightened. Takes about 2 minutes and is super easy.
Chicago Screws are perfect to use for the reversible flap
I wanted a hint of pink to show at the flap edge when reversed.
The top of the flap includes Force Fit Grommets. If a larger chain is desired, adjust the size as desired.
Force Fit Grommets. No stress/easy to install.
The strap includes a vinyl piece at the center for the shoulder area.
Ahhh...nothing like a bit of shoulder comfort on the strap.
The strap can be easily removed with needle-nose pliers, however, you can use lobster clips for the easiest and most versatile strap removeable. You're the designer so you decide :) . I love that the strap has a vinyl piece at the center so it is comfortable on the shoulder. Don't want the strap? No problem. Remove it and you have a beautiful clutch which is easy to carry. Your hand slips inside the padded strap, and it is very comfortable. Force Fit Grommets were used on the top of the flap to hold the strap.
The inside of the bag has the upscale feel with the interfaced satin for the lining. The pocket on one side is open and features a vinyl edge trim. The other side of the bag has a zippered pocket with a stable zipper stay (NO wavy zippers!) and is fully lined. The backside of the bag has a roomy pocket which can easily fit a cellphone.
Open up the clutch for a peek inside.
One side of the interior includes a pop of the metallic pink vinyl at the edge.
The other side of the pocket includes a zipper with stay. No wavy zips!
A beautiful, fully-lined zip pocket. The interfaced satin feels upscale and luxurious.
Overall, I'm thrilled with how the bag turned out. It does run on the larger size for a clutch, so my next version will be sized at 80%. The second version will be in leather, potentially using two coordinating leathers in my stash. It is immensely helpful to have at least a semi-commercial machine like a Janome HD-9, Juki 2010Q, Juki TL18 or the like along with extra, useful feet such as the narrow straight stitch foot, the walking foot, and the teflon foot. If you own an industrial, that's the ultimate in perfection for home bagmaking. Don't let these recommendations, however, prevent you from trying this bag pattern or something similar. A good quality, mid to higher-end, domestic sewing machine that can handle heavier fabrics is a solid option.
What are you waiting for??? Get to it and make a bag :) !
