Welcome to Thrifty Thursday! Fall brings a feeling of a fresh start, new beginnings and of course back to school! A look at fall clothes, purging the closet brings some pieces to light that are ideal for upcycling. One find was a summer white purse which showed signs of wear. The top of the purse was in great shape. I had a heavy piece of fabric remnant that I wanted to use in a bag so put the two together and now I have a new summer bag for next year!

First I washed the purse and cleaned it out, carefully cutting away the bottom leaving the pockets intact inside for my cell phone, business cards. Measured the purse and cut my two fabric pieces front and back 4" wider than purse to allow for pleating. I rounded the corners and made it a longer bag than before to hold summery items like sandals and a hat. I also lined the fabric, sewed up the sides, pressed down the top. Pressed in the pleats as well. Beacon's Fabri-Tac was used to glue the fabric to purse. I added a felt bird motif as I love birds, my home is surrounded by trees and bushes with berries so there are always birds around, blue jays, cardinals, chickadees, sparrows and canaries.

From a small piece left over I made a matching mini bag for sunglasses, make up, those odds and ends which we always carry around. Mine usually include gum, measuring tape, bandages, chapstick and mini sewing kit, oh and chocolate! Those mini chocolate bars are often a life saver!

Keep Creating! Follow the JOY! Debra,CEO!

"Simple pleasures, quiet moments, reflection and gratitude for what is nourish the spirit for the day ahead. Find your inner JOY and embark on the adventure of the day! Debra, Expressions of JOY!