Sewing

Patterns, Techniques, Articles, Blogs, and other resources to learn how to sew

Tutorial: Make this fringed leather clutch, no sewing required

by

Tutorial: Make this fringed leather clutch, no sewing required

Tutorial: Make this fringed leather clutch, no sewing required

Geneva from A Pair & A Spare shows how you can make this fab fringed leather clutch – with no sewing!  The long fringe down the sides is a dramatic detail.  but guess what?  That fringe down the sides actually holds the purse together.  It’s a super fast, super easy project.  I think you could probably knock one out in less than an hour.

Click below to go to the tutorial:

DIY Fringed Clutch (From Scratch), by A Pair & A Spare

[photo from A Pair & A Spare]

Next Pattern:

Have you read?

AITA for Copying a Sewing Trend I Saw on Pinterest (But Making It Myself)?

Dear Crafty Readers,

“I saw a sewing trend on Pinterest that I loved — a style that’s everywhere right now.

I didn’t buy it. I didn’t resell someone else’s pattern. I just used my own skills and made a version for myself.

When I shared it online, someone accused me of copying and being unethical.

I wasn’t trying to steal anyone’s work. I was just inspired.

Now I’m second-guessing myself and wondering where the line actually is.

Am I the asshole for making my own version of a sewing trend I saw online?

— Anonymous

This question sits firmly in grey territory — and that’s why it sparks such strong reactions.

Inspiration vs Copying: Where Is the Line?

Sewing has always involved inspiration.

Fashion cycles repeat. Trends resurface. Techniques are shared. But social media has blurred boundaries and amplified accusations.

The problem is that not everyone agrees on where inspiration ends and copying begins.

Sewing Culture Has Changed

Decades ago, sewists learned by:

  • Studying garments

  • Adapting styles

  • Experimenting

Now, online visibility brings:

  • Public judgement

  • Call-outs

  • Ethical debates

What used to be normal learning behaviour is suddenly scrutinised.

Is Making for Yourself Different From Selling?

This is where opinions really split.

Some say:

  • “If it’s for personal use, it’s fine.”

Others argue:

  • “Credit should always be given.”

And some believe:

  • “Trends belong to everyone.”

So… Are They the Asshole?

This one rarely lands in a clear yes or no.

And that’s exactly why it’s worth discussing.

What do you think?
 Have trends changed how we view sewing ethics — or are we overthinking it?