how to make a fold over clutch bag

Making a fold-over clutch bag can be a fun and creative project. Here are the steps to make one:

Materials You’ll Need:

1. Fabric for the exterior and lining
2. Interfacing (optional, for added stability)
3. Sewing machine
4. Thread
5. Scissors
6. Iron and ironing board
7. Magnetic snap closure or zipper (for closure)
8. Pins
9. Ruler or measuring tape
10. Sewing needle

Step 1: Prepare Your Fabric

1. Choose your fabric for the exterior and lining of the clutch. You can use a variety of fabrics such as cotton, denim, leather, or even silk, depending on the style you want.
2. Cut two identical rectangles for the exterior and two identical rectangles for the lining. The size of the rectangles will depend on how big you want your clutch to be. A common size for a fold-over clutch is around 10 inches by 14 inches.

Step 2: Apply Interfacing (Optional) If you want your clutch to have more structure, you can apply interfacing to the wrong side of your fabric rectangles. Simply cut interfacing pieces that match the size of your fabric pieces and iron them onto the fabric following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 3: Attach the Closure

1. Decide on your closure method. You can use a magnetic snap, a zipper, or even a button and loop closure.
2. If using a magnetic snap, attach one half of the snap to the right side of one lining piece, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure it’s centered and positioned about 1-2 inches from the top edge.
3. Attach the corresponding half of the magnetic snap to the right side of one exterior piece, aligning it with the one on the lining.

Step 4: Sew the Exterior and Lining

1. Place the two exterior fabric pieces right sides together, and do the same with the lining pieces. Pin along the sides and bottom of both sets, leaving the top open.
2. Sew along the sides and bottom of each set, using a 12-inch seam allowance. Leave the top edge open. You should now have two fabric bags, one for the exterior and one for the lining.

Step 5: Box the Corners

1. To create a flat bottom for your clutch, pinch one corner of the exterior bag so that the side seam aligns with the bottom seam. This will form a triangle.
2. Measure and mark about 1 inch down from the tip of the triangle and draw a line perpendicular to the side seam. Pin in place.
3. Sew along the marked line and trim off the excess fabric. Repeat for the other exterior corner and both lining corners.

Step 6: Assemble the Clutch

1. Turn the exterior bag right side out.
2. Place the lining bag (still inside out) inside the exterior bag, aligning the top edges.
3. Pin the top edges together, making sure the side seams match up.
4. Sew around the top edge, leaving a 3-4 inch opening for turning.

Step 7: Turn and Finish

1. Reach inside the opening and turn the entire clutch right side out.
2. Hand-stitch the opening closed using a slip stitch or ladder stitch.
3. Press the clutch with an iron to make sure it’s crisp and well-shaped.

Your fold-over clutch bag is now complete! Customize it with decorative elements like appliqué, embroidery, or fabric paint if desired. Enjoy your handmade accessory.