Project

Leather Clutch with Iron-On Embroidered Appliqués

Who knew? Embroidered patches can even be ironed onto a plain leather clutch to make it pop. The festive finishing touch: a metallic tassel looped through the zipper pull.

Photography: Marcus Smith

Source: Martha Stewart

Introduction

Appliqués and embroidered patches can be ironed onto almost any item in your closet. Think: sweaters, jeans, hats, blouses, shoes, skirts, even a leather clutch such as this one. Make your own one-of-a-kind purse (and make a fabulous fashion statement all at once).

materials

Embroidered appliqués, from $5 each, shinetrim.com

Chainette tassel, $4 for 4, mjtrim.com

Baggu large leather pouch, $88, baggu.com

steps

Arrange your patches in a desired layout.
To prep hand iron, turn on to the hottest setting (avoid using steam) and work on a table or other hard, heat-resistant surface (not an ironing board, which has too much padding).
To apply each patch individually, layer pressing cloth between the patch and the iron. Press down on patch for 30 seconds, covering with heat evenly. (Tip: If you're worried about applying heat to a delicate or dyed bag, use leather glue instead.)
Optional: Tie a small tassel to the zipper pull.