Leather For Lunch

Here are several snapshots of the leather (lunch bag style) clutch that I made. It also had a cameo in the last post. Since I recently acquired some good yardage of leather a couple
of months ago, I’ve been pondering about various design projects that
will keep me busy throughout the season. This project is one of five
that I have been working on. It’s also a perfect alternative to a casual
carrying clutch bag.

I started with cutting my leather in the shape that I wanted  on the fold of fabric… a very easy rectangular form, which will stand vertically. Then, I cut my side panel pieces (optional). There are loads of ways to make this style of bag. You may go the very simple route and make it an all-in-one bag without side panels by just sewing two sides together, but I preferred side panels. I created them using the same piece of leather fabric as the body of my bag. Next, I folded each side panel inward (face side up) in a fan shape, and stitched the top edge of each side to the front and back of the bag, as well as sitching the side seams together.

I wanted a bit of subtle edge to my bag, so I added studs to my bag and glued them to the leather. I also made this version not as tall as a regular lunch bag, that way it looks more like a clutch.

Extras:

I created a tab out of the leftover scraps of leather pieces and used a d-ring to hold keys, etc. This ring extension can also fold inside to stay hidden. Lastly, I then added heavy duty magnets for closure. You may add velcro, snaps, or nothing at all, especially since you roll the top edge of the bag to open and close, but I wanted an actual closure. Here’s the result!

Of course, there’s always more to come, so stay tuned!

How-to DIY lunch bag handbag

Materials used: Leather cut 3 pcs. (body-1, and side panels-2), Studded trim, Metal d-ring (1), Magnets (1 pair), Scissors, Clear fabric glue, Needle and thread or sewing machine.

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DIY Leather clutch bag - DIY blogger fashion tales

 

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126 comments

  • The Foolish Aesthete says:

    This is so absolutely clever and stylish. Love the use of the humble lunch bag form to make leather even edgier. And the studs are the perfect touch. — J xx

    Reply
  • The Foolish Aesthete says:

    This is so absolutely clever and stylish. Love the use of the humble lunch bag form to make leather even edgier. And the studs are the perfect touch. — J xx

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thanks you dear. It's become one of my favourites at the moment. x/Madison

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thanks!

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thanks you dear. It&#39s become one of my favourites at the moment. x/Madison

    Reply
  • Adeola Naomi Aderemi says:

    OMG!!! This is perfection!!!

    Reply
  • Dina's Days says:

    This is AWESOME!!! You know I love a DIY project. This is just perfect.

    Reply
  • Dina's Days says:

    This is AWESOME!!! You know I love a DIY project. This is just perfect.

    Reply
  • Jeans and a Teacup says:

    I've been wanting to do something like this! What a cool DIY!
    ~Jessica

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thank you! 🙂

    Reply
  • Cassandra Too says:

    Oh wow, you did such an amazing job! You are really creative and good at this!

    Google + / Twitter / Bloglovin / Check out BASI

    Cassandra | Backtofive
    http://backtofive.blogspot.com

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thank you! 🙂

    Reply
  • Cassandra Too says:

    Oh wow, you did such an amazing job! You are really creative and good at this!

    Google + / Twitter / Bloglovin / Check out BASI

    Cassandra | Backtofive
    http://backtofive.blogspot.com

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Oh, I totally forgot about that, I've been busy, and will have to check it out next time. xx/Madison
    Wonderful weekend to you! xxoo

    Reply
  • Malena says:

    WOW you made a great job

    xx, Malena

    You can check my blog on:

    http://www.fashioncontainer.com

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thanks Audrey. x

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Liebe Rena,
    Danke! Ich bin froh, dass Sie finden, die Tasche passt gut zu meinem Stil. Ich liebe diese Tasche! 🙂 Viel Spaß das Wochenende!!
    lg, xxoo /Madison

    Reply
  • MISPAPELICOS says:

    Fabulous, now I want one, ahhhhhhhhhhh

    I thought you would join Share-in-Style.It is open until tomorrow morning.
    Have a lovely weekend, dear Madison.
    XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Oh, I totally forgot about that, I&#39ve been busy, and will have to check it out next time. xx/Madison
    Wonderful weekend to you! xxoo

    Reply
  • Malena says:

    WOW you made a great job

    xx, Malena

    You can check my blog on:

    http://www.fashioncontainer.com

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thanks Audrey. x

    Reply
  • MISPAPELICOS says:

    Fabulous, now I want one, ahhhhhhhhhhh

    I thought you would join Share-in-Style.It is open until tomorrow morning.
    Have a lovely weekend, dear Madison.
    XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thanks very much Roz! Yes, you need a different needle, I usually use my denim needle (size 14 & 16), depending on thickness as a leather needle (in same size), but for this I just used my industrial machine and it was fine, as this leather wasn't as thick at some of the other yardages I have. 🙂

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Aww, thanks love! Yes, paitence does help … lol. 🙂 Enjoy the weekend. xx

    Reply
  • Dressed with soul says:

    Liebe Madison, Du bist wirklich eine Künstlerin, die Tasche ist perfekt geworden und wunderbar sauber verarbeitet! Ich bin begeistert von Deinen vielen Begabungen <3 Außerdem finde ich, dass die Tasche sehr gut zu Dir und Deinem Stil passt.

    Ein tolles Wochenende für Dich!

    xx from Bavaria/Germany, Rena

    http://www.dressedwithsoul.blogspot.de

    Reply
  • Audrey Allure says:

    Wow, you are so talented — that looks amazing!

    http://audreyallure.blogspot.com

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    🙂 THANK YOU Rowena. x/Madison

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thank you Cee, that's such a sweet comment. Most of my DIY's just come from me wanting something new and different, especially if I cannto find it for a reasonable price anywhere. So glad that you like my leather clutch too! I will definitely style it here in the near future. xx/M

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Wow, Vielen Dank Cla für die sehr süße kompliment! Ja, Ich mag machen Accessoires-mode. Ich Wünsche Dir ein schönes Wochende. 🙂 lg, xx/Madison

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    🙂 Haha, thank you so much! I'm happy that you came to see it!

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    🙂 Thanks love. So appreciate your comment.

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Hi Lilli,
    Yes, I will upload more projects in the near future! Thanks for your comment, so glad that you like my bag … it's my favourite at the moment. xx/Madison

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thank you Sam, wow! xx

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    I agree, it gives it more edge. I wanted simple, but interesting enough to stand out. Thanks Cheryl! Happy weekend. 🙂

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    It's actually quite easy. Just requires a steady hand with cutting.Thanks for your comment. /Madison

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thank you.

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    🙂 Thanks so much Ali for your comment!

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    *blushes* I will have to check that out! Thanks!

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Danke Chrissie!
    Liebe Grüsse,
    ~Mads xo 🙂

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thank you Natalia.

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thanks!

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Hi, this is a tutorial, because it's pretty straight forward and just making a rectangle.(as a paper lunch sack). You don't need to create panels like I did. But, if you have any questions with creating it do let me know, I am happy to provide you with instruction via e-mail. Take care,
    Madison 🙂

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thanks so much Mira! I'm so happy with it as well, and already took it out for a wear! I've not seen any of these as DIY's so far, I've only seen bloggers who purchased similar ones. Of course, none like my own! Have a wonderful w/e. x :-))

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thanks Kiem! Yes, I'm happy that I am able to make things, because it does indeed save money, and I wouldn't spend 800+ on a bag THIS easy to make, even if I couldn't create it! haha. Happy weekend. x/Madison

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thanks for your lovely compliment Jilly! x/Madison

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thank -you, thank-you! xoxo

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Aww, thanks very much Kalyani. 🙂

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thanks doll! I really appreciate it. I'm so happy with how it turned out. xx/Madison

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thank you Marj! So happy you liked it too. Enjoy the weekend.

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    xxxooo 🙂 Hehe!

    Reply
  • kim bim says:

    Well done babes, I am loving your DIY bag. You got loads of patience. It's looks brilliant.
    Have a fabulous weekend.
    Kisses..

    Reply
  • kim bim says:

    Fabulous!!! Well done babes,You got loads of patience. What a great result,am loving your DIY bag.
    Have a fabulous weekend.
    Kisses..

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thanks very much Roz! Yes, you need a different needle, I usually use my denim needle (size 14 & 16), depending on thickness as a leather needle (in same size), but for this I just used my industrial machine and it was fine, as this leather wasn&#39t as thick at some of the other yardages I have. 🙂

    Reply
  • Cee says:

    I always envy your sewing skills, Madison – never mind your creativity to come up with a design like this! The lunchbag style clutch is such a wonderfully practical and stylish idea, and yet I've never seen anything like it before. I can't wait to see an outfit post featuring it!
    xox,
    Cee

    Reply
  • Rosalind jana says:

    You make it look SO easy making this beautiful little clutch. I'm assuming that you must use special needles for leather on your sewing machine? I must look into how to sew leather or super thick fabrics on my machine.

    Reply
  • Oh to Be a Muse says:

    I like the addition of the studs on the bottom. Unique placement. The studs definitely add more edge to the leather clutch.

    http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/

    Reply
  • Saranda Walgaard says:

    This DIY is just perfect! Such a cool bag! 😀
    Could you maybe do a step by step tutorial? O=)

    If yes please let me know!

    xo
    http://www.SarandaAdriana.com

    Reply
  • Audrey Allure says:

    Wow, you are so talented — that looks amazing!

    http://audreyallure.blogspot.com

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    🙂 THANK YOU Rowena. x/Madison

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thank you Cee, that&#39s such a sweet comment. Most of my DIY&#39s just come from me wanting something new and different, especially if I cannto find it for a reasonable price anywhere. So glad that you like my leather clutch too! I will definitely style it here in the near future. xx/M

    Reply
  • Rowena @ rolala loves says:

    What a fun fabulous DIY Madison! That is the chicest lunch bag around! Thanks for sharing dear! Have a lovely weekend!

    Rowena @ rolala loves

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    🙂 Haha, thank you so much! I&#39m happy that you came to see it!

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    🙂 Thanks love. So appreciate your comment.

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Hi Lilli,
    Yes, I will upload more projects in the near future! Thanks for your comment, so glad that you like my bag … it&#39s my favourite at the moment. xx/Madison

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thank you Sam, wow! xx

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    I agree, it gives it more edge. I wanted simple, but interesting enough to stand out. Thanks Cheryl! Happy weekend. 🙂

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    It&#39s actually quite easy. Just requires a steady hand with cutting.Thanks for your comment. /Madison

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thank you.

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    🙂 Thanks so much Ali for your comment!

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    *blushes* I will have to check that out! Thanks!

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Danke Chrissie!
    Liebe Grüsse,
    ~Mads xo 🙂

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thank you Natalia.

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thanks!

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Hi, this is a tutorial, because it&#39s pretty straight forward and just making a rectangle.(as a paper lunch sack). You don&#39t need to create panels like I did. But, if you have any questions with creating it do let me know, I am happy to provide you with instruction via e-mail. Take care,
    Madison 🙂

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thanks so much Mira! I&#39m so happy with it as well, and already took it out for a wear! I&#39ve not seen any of these as DIY&#39s so far, I&#39ve only seen bloggers who purchased similar ones. Of course, none like my own! Have a wonderful w/e. x :-))

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thanks Kiem! Yes, I&#39m happy that I am able to make things, because it does indeed save money, and I wouldn&#39t spend 800+ on a bag THIS easy to make, even if I couldn&#39t create it! haha. Happy weekend. x/Madison

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thanks for your lovely compliment Jilly! x/Madison

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thank -you, thank-you! xoxo

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Aww, thanks very much Kalyani. 🙂

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thanks doll! I really appreciate it. I&#39m so happy with how it turned out. xx/Madison

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    Thank you Marj! So happy you liked it too. Enjoy the weekend.

    Reply
  • Ladyofashion says:

    xxxooo 🙂 Hehe!

    Reply
  • Glam up your Lifestyle says:

    Was für einen tolle Tasche, unglaublich dass du sie selbst gemacht hast.Die Tasche erinnert mich an eine bestimmte ´Celine Tasche. Du bist wirklich handwerklich begabt.

    LG Cla

    http://glamupyourlifestyle.blogspot.de/

    Reply
  • kim bim says:

    Well done babes, I am loving your DIY bag. You got loads of patience. It&#39s looks brilliant.
    Have a fabulous weekend.
    Kisses..

    Reply
  • kim bim says:

    Fabulous!!! Well done babes,You got loads of patience. What a great result,am loving your DIY bag.
    Have a fabulous weekend.
    Kisses..

    Reply
  • francesca r says:

    Naaaah you genius!! I love it!!

    Don't Call
    Me Fashion Blogger

    Facebook

    Bloglovin'

    Reply
  • Saranda Walgaard says:

    This DIY is just perfect! Such a cool bag! 😀
    Could you maybe do a step by step tutorial? O=)

    If yes please let me know!

    xo
    http://www.SarandaAdriana.com

    Reply
  • Sam @ Frills & Thrills says:

    Thanks for your kind visit…Happy Friday Doll!

    Reply
  • Stanislava E. says:

    The bag is very nice! I am not sure if I am able to do this! Great job!

    Reply
  • ElleSees.blogspot.com says:

    i freakin' love how this turned out!!

    Reply
  • Rowena @ rolala loves says:

    What a fun fabulous DIY Madison! That is the chicest lunch bag around! Thanks for sharing dear! Have a lovely weekend!

    Rowena @ rolala loves

    Reply
  • Ms Madge says:

    What a talented craftswoman! I love the idea of a packed lunch bag. And it's leather. Very cool! Great job Madison. Have a lovely weekend xxx

    Reply
  • Mary Jo says:

    That's a great little bag–so perfect for life on the go! Hope your week was a good one and I know I'm going to be enjoying the weekend (early).

    xo Mary Jo

    Reply
  • Glam up your Lifestyle says:

    Was für einen tolle Tasche, unglaublich dass du sie selbst gemacht hast.Die Tasche erinnert mich an eine bestimmte ´Celine Tasche. Du bist wirklich handwerklich begabt.

    LG Cla

    http://glamupyourlifestyle.blogspot.de/

    Reply
  • KizzyDoll says:

    So talented doll, that is fantastic, love this bag!! I hope you have a gorgeous weekend xx

    Reply
  • francesca r says:
    Reply
  • ElleSees.blogspot.com says:

    i freakin&#39 love how this turned out!!

    Reply
  • Ms Madge says:

    What a talented craftswoman! I love the idea of a packed lunch bag. And it&#39s leather. Very cool! Great job Madison. Have a lovely weekend xxx

    Reply
  • Kalyani says:

    Genius DIY! I love this project – simple, creative and inspiring!
    Thank u for commenting on my blog! Your last outfit post is very chic too!!
    xx
    K
    klassystylefiles.blogspot.com.au

    Reply
  • Kalyani says:

    Genius DIY! I love this project – simple, creative and inspiring!
    Thank u for commenting on my blog! Your last outfit post is very chic too!!
    xx
    K
    klassystylefiles.blogspot.com.au

    Reply
  • nicoleta buru says:

    Ahh, so great DIY, my sweetie *__*

    Many kisses,

    Nicole

    http://www.nicoleta.me

    ps.Check out my very first wedding post if you want 🙂

    Reply
  • mihaela pojogu says:
    Reply
  • Always Maylee says:

    Oh I love how this clutch came out, what a great job you did!

    xo, Yi-chia
    Always Maylee

    Reply
  • shan says:

    lovely blog

    Would u like to follow each other? Let me know 😉

    SHAN

    http://www.memyheelsandi.com

    Reply
  • Ali Mackin says:

    This so cute and chic too! How handy you are. I could never pull this off. I am all thumbs and have zero patience.

    Ali of
    wwww.dressingken.com

    Reply
  • nicoleta buru says:

    Ahh, so great DIY, my sweetie *__*

    Many kisses,

    Nicole

    http://www.nicoleta.me

    ps.Check out my very first wedding post if you want 🙂

    Reply
  • Emmy MW says:

    You are too talented, Madison. The studs on the bag was a fab idea. Love love love….

    Reply
  • Sorelle in Style says:

    Ahh it turned out SO great! I wish I were as talented to recreate it 🙂

    ♡jilly

    sorelle in style

    Reply
  • Kim A. says:

    It's a really cute bag! I remember you said you were going to add studs. Looks really good Madison! Very nice touch! I wish I could make my own. HAHAHA Save a lot of money.

    http://www.averysweetblog.com/

    Reply
  • Erika Sorocco says:

    Speechless. I am just so in love with this bag – the aesthetic is phenom!! 🙂

    Reply
  • Lilli says:

    Madison, you are great beyond the word. I wont be able to do the same. The lunch bag you created is flawless and let me tell you I'm craving for it! Curious to see the other projects you have been working on. Have a good day dear, kisses! xo

    Reply
  • Couture Carrie says:

    Amazing DIY, darling ~ wow!

    xoxox,
    CC

    Reply
  • Blond Duck says:

    I'm with Sam– you should totally try out!

    Reply
  • Sam @ Frills & Thrills says:

    I am completely awestruck that you made this, wow!! You are brilliantly talented. You should go on Project Accessory!

    Reply
  • Chrissie says:

    Amazing idea!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    GLG aus der

    EDELFABRIK
    Chrissie

    Reply
  • Kim A. says:

    It&#39s a really cute bag! I remember you said you were going to add studs. Looks really good Madison! Very nice touch! I wish I could make my own. HAHAHA Save a lot of money.

    http://www.averysweetblog.com/

    Reply
  • Natalia says:

    You did a fantastic job! x

    http://fashionedbylove.blogspot.com

    Reply
  • Erika Sorocco says:

    Speechless. I am just so in love with this bag – the aesthetic is phenom!! 🙂

    Reply
  • Lilli says:

    Madison, you are great beyond the word. I wont be able to do the same. The lunch bag you created is flawless and let me tell you I&#39m craving for it! Curious to see the other projects you have been working on. Have a good day dear, kisses! xo

    Reply
  • Vix Brearley says:

    That's fantastic, you clever thing! x

    Reply
  • Couture Carrie says:

    Amazing DIY, darling ~ wow!

    xoxox,
    CC

    Reply
  • Blond Duck says:

    I&#39m with Sam– you should totally try out!

    Reply
  • Sam @ Frills & Thrills says:

    I am completely awestruck that you made this, wow!! You are brilliantly talented. You should go on Project Accessory!

    Reply
  • Chrissie says:

    Amazing idea!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    GLG aus der

    EDELFABRIK
    Chrissie

    Reply
  • Natalia says:

    You did a fantastic job! x

    http://fashionedbylove.blogspot.com

    Reply
  • Vix Brearley says:

    That&#39s fantastic, you clever thing! x

    Reply

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