How to Design a Purse made of Vinyl Flooring

I really get a kick out of finding supplies in the most odd places! Vinyl (or linoleum) flooring may not be the first material you think of when making a purse, but its durability, flexibility, and variety of textures make it a great option for a unique, up-cycled bag.

If you’re looking for a fun and creative DIY project, this guide will walk you through the steps to turn leftover or old vinyl flooring into a stylish and functional purse. This eco-friendly project helps reduce waste while creating something fashionable and personal.

What You’ll Need:

I happened on to this idea when I was looking around a discount flooring outlet. Since I have a tendency of loving natural elements like wood and rocks in my designs this seemed perfect! Who knew that such amazing flooring is even available?!

When choosing your pattern make sure that it has some flexibility. Amazingly, some flooring even come with a felt backing! I especially like the stone pattern. Think of this material much like a thick leather; assembling in a way that does not require sewing.

Supplies:

1. Vinyl Flooring – Choose flexible, sheet-style vinyl rather than stiff, plank-style vinyl for ease of folding and stitching.
2. Wood Strips (or similar) for end panels
3. Fabric Lining (Optional) – To give the interior of your purse a more polished and finished look.
4. Heavy-Duty Scissors, Rotary Cutter or Xacto knife – For cutting through the vinyl.
5. Ruler and Measuring Tape – To ensure accurate cuts.
6. Sewing Machine or Heavy-Duty Needle and Thread (optional) – You’ll need strong tools for stitching through vinyl.
7. Leather or Upholstery Glue (Optional) – For reinforcing seams, attaching the lining or side panels
8. Purse closure, Clasp, Magnetic Snap, or Velcro – For the purse closure.
9. Straps – You can make or use vinyl strips, an old belt, or any other material you prefer.

My Simple ‘No-sew’ Design:

One of the reason I wanted to make this is that it is quite unique & unconventional. It is not sewn and uses wood for side panels. Those side panels are what holds everything together. The size of the finished bag is also determined by the sides. I used some standard boards from Home depot that would only need to be cut to length. I love my small Dremel Moto Saw, as it is easily set up for these types of work.

When designing the shape it is important to think about how we carry a purse. Keep edges rounded rather than sharp. Many other types of side panels could also be used such a pieces of dowels or maybe even branches; it’s always fun to break rules!

I stained the pieces with some rubbing of paint that I mixed. Make sure to use permanent colour like acrylic paint.

For keeping it clean and snag-proof a coat of a hard varnish is easily added.

Acrylic Wood floor finishes are very hard and dry quickly.

The side panels can be wider or shorter depending on your intended use. The amount of flooring needed is measured from these side dimensions. The closure and overlap of the closing flap are also taken into account.

The basic shapes are rectangles that simply wrap around the side panels.

Options of Purse Hardware;

These days the many options of purse hardware are available everywhere. Simple D-rings or split key rings can attach the straps. I have even used dollar store dog leashes as straps.

The many options of purse closures include snaps, turn toggles, twist lock, thumb lock latch, magnetic, ties or even velcro. The hardest part is deciding! Many times the unique hardware is what makes the purse special!

These types of closures require only a cut hole and then bending of the tabs to hold in place.

This closure has some screws that hold the 2 halves together. It is also a twist lock.

These thumb lock closure latches are easily found at most sewing supply stores as well.

Purse Strap Attachment Options:

When it comes to my purses I like to have flexibility! Being able to swap straps or change lengths is important. You can even just use the ones you already have. Swivel Snap hooks make quick work of purse straps.

Attaching the Side panels:

This cute rock vinyl flooring is already felt backed. (shop around for unique types) I did not need to line it at all. I did sew a line of stitching around the edge for effect but it is only decorative. I am impressed that my Old Kenmore Machine does sew it quite easily.

The basic size is determined with the distance around the side panels and how much of an overlap the front flap has. You can decide on the width as you like.

For extra assurance I attached the sides both by gluing and also using some small screws. Make sure to use a very strong glue like a heavy duty contact cement.

Making & Attaching the straps.

Most sewing supply stores sell strapping by the meter, but there are so many other options especially if you want to reuse what you have. If you do not want to sew; small rivets can be hammered in to attach straps to the snap hooks. Pre-finished straps are also readily available.

If you change the dimensions the purse can be completely different. Since the assembly is so simple the material used can be quite unique. Maybe a well worn leather from a cowboy boot, or suitcase, anything strong can work. Think ‘outside the box’.

The Purse Interior:

If you would like interior compartments then making a few pockets separately is the answer. Adding a zipper makes a bit more secure option. A couple rivets or line of stitching can attach the panel inside.

I’m thrilled at the combination of materials as I applaud design that is unique as well as useful. I bet this would also make a good option for a larger laptop bag as it is quite sturdy to protect contents from damage.

I have never seen a ‘rock purse’ anywhere! If you would like to avoid the use of wood there is also a no-sew design that utilizes rivets for assembly.

This Design Rivet Purse design (tutorial & pattern download here) is assembled with a standard pop rivet gun. I understand that many who want to make a purse do not have industrial sewing machines! Another material that could be used is industrial felt. It is easy to work with, does not fray and also sews easily albeit being quite thick. I have some tips for working with industrial felt.

The Completed Purse:

Have you seen anything like this?! It is a pretty spacious bag but could also be adapted to be smaller. I can’t get enough of those rocks as you know… I love rocks!

Maybe there is a piece of vintage flooring that you have a special attachment to?

Let me know what you think! I always love to hear – as I am already picturing more designs in my ‘visual brain’! What do you think about the size? If you like purse making, I do have a few ideas… since ideas are quite plentiful in my brain!