A simple coin purse
When I started working with leather, I was always on the lookout for simple projects to practice basic skills. Below is an idea for a simple project and a pattern you can use to try it.
The pictures and pattern are for a simple leather “coin purse”. I got the idea long ago from a Tandy Leather Factory newsletter. The chain of leather supply stores regularly publishes a paper newsletter that includes simple patterns/projects. The projects are relatively easy to make and incorporate at least one basic skill (i.e. lacing). They are fun and relaxing to do, and I use them to practice basic leatherworking skills.
I could not find the newsletter online, so this post uses my own pattern based on theirs. It is a single “plus-sign” shaped piece of leather, folded and sewn. Trace the pattern onto relatively thin vegetable tanned leather. Then cut it, decorate or tool it, set the snaps, and sew it together. I recommend it to beginners out there looking for an easy project.
Instead of showing pictures of recent pieces, I am purposely showing my early work. It has plenty of flaws, and that is OK. Frequently, beginners punish themselves for making mistakes. This is the wrong approach. Instead, understand that each piece is uniquely yours. It is also a learning experience that will make all your future projects better.
I used the one pictured below to practice setting snaps… and I thought it would be a fun gift for a lady-friend. 🙂 You can see my dyeing produced an inconsistent color, one of my snaps was set at an angle, and I forgot to finish the edges the way I normally would (doh!). It really doesn’t matter. I had a great time making it. So no laughing!!! 🙂
A simple coin purse
Simple coin purse
Coin purse open
Here is a photograph of my pattern. You can reproduce it to whatever size you want.
Coin purse pattern
Never assume that a pattern can only serve one purpose. Below is another “coin purse” I made for a friend to store headphone buds and other miscellaneous stuff he did not want crushed. I used it to practice tooling a basket weave pattern.
Pouch before sewing
Front of pouch
Back of pouch
This is a fun way to spend an hour or two. It also makes a cute gift. I encourage you to try it for yourself!
For another simple leather project, check out Coyote and Night.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you may like others in the skills section.
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