How to attach purse handles?

[tinkerpuppet]

I made a purse by making a rectangle, and then folding it in half. I have lined it and closed up the two sides. Right now I am thrilled with it. But I have two round handles to attach, and I can't figure out the best way. How do you attach your purse handles when there isn't a pattern to follow? There are 40sts on each side (front and back).

[sherryzzz]

You could just sew them on, using a large eye needle, your yarn and a whip stitch.

[JCB]

I have whipstitched round handles on to a bag. If you go through all the stitches, it will gather the bag at the top, (like the one here: http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showthread.php?t=41887&highlight=cable ) which looks nice. However, you will have to open up a few inches on each side or you won't be able to get into the bag.

 

The other thing you could do is whipstitch the handles on but only use some of the stitches in the center of the bag. This would not gather up the top. There is a honeycomb pattern bag that uses that method:

http://snipurl.com/honeycomb

 

Joan

[Chanti]

thank you for asking the question tinkerpuppet, i am about to have a go at a handbag too... somuch nicer than a bought one. That was something that has put me off making it.... the handles. But I think i will be game....sooon....