- The jeans pocketbook is very simple, and the best part is that it comes with built-in pockets for your things. Take an old pair of jeans and cut them straight across just above the crotch so that you now have what looks like an extremely short skirt. Turn this "skirt" inside out and sew (or use fabric glue if you aren't great at sewing) along the edge where the crotch used to be to create the bottom of your bag. Now cut two strips of fabric from the pant legs to make straps. Sew these straps to the bag and voila! Instant purse. You can also use old overalls and use the straps from the overalls as the purse handle.
- If you have a pretty patterned pillow case that you can't seem to find the right bedding for, or you lost its match, you can turn that pillowcase into a great draw-string pocket book with a bohemian edge. Cut off the bottom half of the pillow case so that your pillow has two open ends. Turn the pillowcase inside out and hem the frayed edge. Turn the pillowcase right side out again and about a half inch from the top of the open end of the pillowcase, use a stitch remover or scissors to open a 1-inch slit in the right and left hems. Now feed a ribbon or rope through one of these holes, going around the circumference of the bag twice, and then tie off or sew the two ends at the same hole where you started. At each of the holes, grab the top layer of rope or ribbon and pull, and your bag should cinch closed.
- You can also make a kitschy pocketbook with a splash of attitude by using unexpected household items. Sew together a bunch of empty Capri-sun pouches or gummy snack wrappers to make your bag. Use layers of duct tape for an industrial flavor, or use an old t-shirt from your favorite band for a rock-n-roll feel. Get creative, and you can make a pocket book that reflects both your personal style, and your ability to get creative.
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