Macrame
Creating Macrame Bags
A macramé bag, or for that matter any other type of “bag”, can be a tote, a handbag, a purse, or a clutch. The names are different to better define the style, use and size of the bag. When you hear the word clutch (when referring to a “bag”), you think of something without a handle and relatively small, in fact, you probably think “evening” or “dressy”.
If you’re not sure of the recommended sizes for “bags”, here is a general guideline of the differences by name and size:
Small
Tote – 10” X 10” plus
fringe Large Tote
– 14” X 14” plus fringe
Evening bag – 4.5” X 7.5” Handbag – 8” X 10”
Bags offer much room for creativity. As with most
things, there is a great variety in color, size, shape, and style
(casual, dressy, a more practical bag, or evening wear). Evening bag – 4.5” X 7.5” Handbag – 8” X 10”
If you decide to make one of the pieces from the guidelines mentioned, first you must decide on the style, the size and the colors you will use. If you want to combine the macramé with beads, sea shells, coins, sequins, or buttons, you have to consider texture, color, material, the kind of use it will get, and how to wash it.
If you buy, copy or borrow a pattern, follow the steps carefully along the way. If you decide to make your own design, make a paper pattern first. Paper is best (it’s cheaper and very flexible) to make sure everything will work out well. On paper you can create the folds you’ll need, you can decide how much space you want inside, and you can pencil in where you want the handles to be attached, and where it is best to place a clasp, a button, or a snap.
It is preferable when you design a “bag” pattern with paper, to use the same size or measurements as those of the bag you are making, in other words, of the real thing.
An exact size will allow you to create freely, and help you avoid having to do a lot of math and converting of numbers to actual size when you’re ready to start your macramé project.
It’s best if you’re just starting, to use a simple shape like a square or a rectangle, and not a circle or oval which will make the actual macramé work and piecing together much more difficult.
For more ideas for macrame patterns go here.
Keep the pattern simple, and keep it easy. You can create folds, sides, and figure out the kind of handles you’ll add or what type of clasp you’ll use to close it later. You can do some marking and making notes as you go on the paper pattern to best remember.
An important note is, if you’re making a tote, you will need more of a box shape with sides added to create that extra space and ampleness needed for a larger bag.
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Think of a belt around the sides of your box shaped tote that can extend to also become the handles. Basically, in the “box” diagram, the gray area would be replaced by the long strip you’ll be making in a “belt” shape.
Okay, so you’re making a tote and you want it big to take to the beach. Of course you have to fit your book, your sun tanning lotion, your glasses, and your water bottle – oops, don’t forget your towel!
Did you consider the material you’re going to use to make it “beach friendly”? How about raffia?
Jute is a great outdoor material, but it doesn’t smell very good when it gets wet. Cotton or linen are lovely summer materials, but will probably shrink when exposed to dampness. Yarn is a really bad choice when you think of the sand that will most certainly get stuck between the fibers and no matter how much shaking you’ll do, it is sure to get your car really messy on the way home.
Obviously, these are some of the many things you’ll have to consider because of the type of use and wear you’ll give to your beach tote. If you’re thinking instead of an evening bag you know will have very little use and will not be exposed to weather and such, material should be considered mainly for the look you want it to have. And even if your evening bag is toppled over by a glass of your favorite merlot, you have the option of sending it to the dry cleaner the day after the party.
Once you’ve made a pattern (after figuring out the shape and size), it’s time to really get creative. Use a combination of knots, color, or other materials and add them to your piece, but the pattern you created should be kept simple.
For the handles, you have the option of making that long belt shaped piece that serves as sides, bottom, and handles, but you have so many other options that are all readily available at craft stores, and even in your home, with a little imagination.
Bag handles can be purchased at a craft store and come in all shapes, colors, material, and sizes.
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You’ll have to choose a mounting board to anchor your cords, and depending on the ampleness you’re going for, you can choose a box or brick shaped mounting surface.
The shape of your mounting board will actually help shape your bag. A great mounting surface is one of those foam green bases used for artificial plants. The foam allows you to pin the cords, and the shape adds depth. These are very versatile and come in “brick”, round, rectangular, square, and oval shapes.
Once you’re done with the macramé and added embellishments, attach a clasp and it’s a snap! You’re done.
For more incredible patterns visit The One Stop Macrame Shop
If you want to try your hand at more than one art form, why not Macrochet?
How about a macramé bag with crochet embellishments?
How about a macramé bag with crochet embellishments?
Macramé + Crochet = Macrochet!
You’ll have to do it in 2 parts – 1st the Macramé portion, and then the crochet – you’ll have to do a little sewing too .
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Materials
• - 30” long cord in color of choice
• 47 - 5 yard lengths of same color above
• - 10 yard length of same color
• White glue
• Mounting surface
• Pins
• Color of choice yarn for crochet flowers
• Crochet hook
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Macramé Handbag: This simple pattern can be used as a base for many items (handbag, placemat, hat, and more)
Now for embellishments… The handles can be purchased at a craft store and attached or you can use an old necklace or long macramé strap. If you run some of the yarn in long stitches through the top, you can make a drawstring bag. |
For More Macrame Patterns Click Here
 Store bought handles |
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Crochet Daisy Design:
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If you’re still wanting more, here are some basic instructions to make the gorgeous necklace below:
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Use your imagination and sew on the flowers to fit your style. Use it as a button or clasp, or a feminine touch. Make it soft, or make it bold. Have fun!
Now go ahead, style your hair and take your bag out for a walk.
Macrame