I had originally planned to make Simplicity 4178, but…I decided I wanted something with a little sparkle. I told myself I would only create this wardrobe from fabrics and patterns I already owned. Unfortunately, I only have 2 handbag patterns in my huge pattern collection. So, I broke my own rule!

This is McCall’s 5340. I haven’t decided if I like it yet or not.

The purse is made in a silvery-gray linen. It calls for hair canvas as interfacing. Since I don’t have that in my stash (not really sure what it is actually), I used some left-over light weight denim. I really like the drape of the linen when interfaced with the denim, but the facings are almost too thick. It is lined with the teal satin that I also used on my jacket and one of my tops.

The pattern calls for 17 mm beads. This might of worked with wooden craft beads, but I wanted something a bit “blingier”. These are 14 mm beads.

The beads also cause another problem. The patterns instructs you to thread 3 strands of 1/16-inch cord through the beads to create the handle. Even 1 strand wouldn’t fit through these beads. I wound up stringing the beads of the handle on microfilament and knotting the microfilament to the cord.

And another problem. Even braided, 3 strands of 1/16-inch cord makes a very skinny strap. I’m afraid the purse will cut into my shoulder.

All that said–I think this is a really cute purse. It coordinates nicely with my wardrobe plan and I think I’ll enjoy using it this summer.

Just to keep track, that’s another 1 1/2 yards out of my stash. That means 8 1/2 total!