I usually tote a large bucket bag packed with everything I might need—wallet, sunglasses, keys, hand cream, headache medicine, and more. But sometimes it feels great to downsize to a smaller bag. That’s why I love foldover clutches: they’re compact yet roomy enough for essentials, and they look effortlessly cool.
If that sounds like you, try this DIY foldover clutch with a reversible patchwork design that gives the bag two distinct looks.
Materials and tools
- Fabric scraps or yardage (see note)
- 11–12 inch zipper
- Straight pins
- Sewing machine
- Fusible interfacing (optional)
Note: Amount of fabric should be enough for a lined 12×12 inch clutch like the one shown.
Step-by-step instructions
1. Select your fabrics. I used three coordinating fabrics—most were leftover scraps from past projects; one navy piece was an upcycled napkin.
2. For this version, a single fabric (brown corduroy) forms the full-length bottom band that runs around the clutch. Sew the top patchwork pieces to that bottom strip with a straight stitch so the pieces form one long rectangle.
3. Fold the long rectangle in half with right sides together and sew the side seams. Turn the exterior right side out—this becomes the outer shell of the clutch.
4. Cut one long piece of lining fabric to 13×25 inches. If you want the clutch stiffer, cut fusible interfacing to the same dimensions as the lining and fuse it to the wrong side of the lining with an iron. Then sew the lining’s side seams, leaving the top edge open.
5. Insert the finished lining into the exterior shell, aligning seams and smoothing the fabric so both layers sit flat.
6. Position the zipper centered across the top opening. If your zipper is shorter than the clutch width (mine is under 12 inches), center it so there’s even fabric on both sides. With a zipper foot, stitch the zipper between the lining and the exterior along the top edge so it’s secured to both layers. Finish the interior corners by hand for a neat result.
Because the clutch uses different fabrics on each side, flipping it and folding the top the other way gives you a completely different look—one bag, two styles.
I also like the idea of using this clutch as a work pouch if you still rely on a large tote—use it for pens, notebooks, or electronics. It makes a great makeup bag or pencil case, too. Adjust the pattern dimensions a little and you can change the size to suit any purpose.
Sewing: Julia Pistsova / Model: Emma Spear / Photography: Brittni Mehlhoff
Are you a clutch person—yes or no? What do you think of this DIY foldover clutch?