The Tribune

By Teri M. Bethel

I've seen a few awesome bags around town lately, in particular some amazing straw bags.

Most astonishing is the level of workmanship in the straw. Absolutely amazing Bahamian straw! I have never seen such remarkable workmanship as what is produced in our islands.

While I'm not the local encyclopedia for all the types of straw plait that are on the market, I have become somewhat of a lover of a beautifully executed straw purse. A few years ago I introduced straw to my line of Teri Monique Handbags, coupled with the hand-painted fabrics they proved to be a winning combination.

Today I'm finding more and more people are interested in learning how to make our beloved straw bags. Though making a straw purse does not require the mind of a rocket scientist it does require the application of some basic techniques along with a few general tips.

So what does one need to get started on the journey to making a great straw bag?

Below I've listed a few pointers for you. Here are some of the main materials you will need to get started:

• A sewing machine (home or industrial)

• Great quality straw

• Purse handles

• Lining fabric (medium weight)

• Chipboard

• Purse feet

• Bag closure

Among the key factors to sewing nice-looking straw bags are:

• Having a good design

• Proper pattern cutting

• Using quality materials

• Being consistent in stitching

• Sewing close to the edge of the straw

• Not having multiple stitches on straw

• Proper application of the binding

While having impeccably plaited straw is a great start, it is equally important to have the straw neatly sewn. Having one or the other does not make a good straw bag. It's having both elements, good straw and good workmanship, in place that makes a quality handbag.

The best advice anyone can give someone wanting to sew a straw purse is to start with a simple design, perfect your stitching and work towards producing an excellent product. Making a beautiful purse is not about how quickly you can make it, rather, how well it is constructed.

Teri M. Bethel is a texture painting and handbag instructor. She is the designer of Teri Monique Handbags, a line of custom-made art purses for ladies. For more information on making a designer purse visit: http://www.paintwithtexture.com/how-to-make-a-handbag/ or telephone: 242-676-4474