Font Resize
Recycle an old or outgrown pair of jeans and make a trendy pocket purse with a shoulder strap your preteen daughter can use this summer. It's perfect for holding a comb, chapstick and change when she's out and about with friends.
If she is having a sleepover party, pull the supplies together and let the girls create their own purses to keep. It's a super-simple make-and-take project everyone will remember.
HERE'S WHAT TO DO:
1. Cut out the back pocket from a pair of old jeans (the heavier the denim fabric, the better), cutting along the outside of the pocket. Cut very close to the pocket's top stitching without cutting the pocket. Don't limit yourself to blue jeans. For unusual purses, we used pockets from black, red and gold jeans we picked up for less than $1 at summer garage sales.
2. For a shoulder strap, determine the length of cording or ribbon that suits the child's height. Hand-stitch the ends to the top side edges of the pocket opening. Old woven sashes or cotton belts (with buckles cut off) also work well.
3. Scout around the house for interesting items to decorate the pocket purse. Attach the items with fabric glue, or assist young children with a glue gun.
HERE'S HOW TO ADORN PURSES:
Jazzy: Glue a fringe trim to the side and bottom edges. Glue big rhinestones to the front of the purse for an eye-catching accent.
Romantic: Glue a square of cotton lace to the front. Add items from old costume jewelry, such as pearls,
Artsy: Use fabric paints to paint a picture or abstract design. Embellish with glued-on buttons, coins or charms.
Donna Erickson is the executive producer and host of public television's award-winning family lifestyle series "Donna's Day." Her latest book is "Donna Erickson's Fabulous Funstuff for Families." For more ideas, visit MinnMoms.com/donna, sign up for Donna's e-newsletter at donnasday.com, like the Donna's Day Facebook page or follow Donna at twitter.com/Donna_Erickson.
