How to Sew a Cross-Body Purse Without a Pattern

A Simple DIY Bag Using Canvas, Faux Suede, or Other Woven Fabrics

You don’t need a sewing pattern to create a stylish, functional cross-body purse. With a few basic measurements and straight seams, you can sew a bag that’s practical, comfortable to wear, and easy to customize.

This no-pattern DIY cross-body purse is designed using canvas as the base fabric, but the same method works with faux suede, denim, or other sturdy woven fabrics. It’s an approachable project for confident beginners and a satisfying quick sew for experienced sewists.

Why Sew a Purse Without a Pattern?

Sewing without a pattern allows you to focus on construction rather than templates. It also gives you flexibility to adjust size, fabric choice, and details without being limited by pre-designed pieces.

A no-pattern purse is ideal if you:

Want a straightforward project

Prefer using fabric from your stash

Like customizing size and strap length

Enjoy practical, everyday sewing projects

Best Fabrics for a No-Pattern Cross-Body Purse

Canvas (Recommended Fabric)

Canvas is durable, easy to sew, and holds its shape well. It’s an excellent choice for an everyday cross-body purse and works without interfacing for a simple design.

Faux Suede or Microsuede

These fabrics create a softer, more polished look. Choose a medium-weight version and use a longer stitch length for best results.

Other Woven Fabrics

Denim, cotton duck, upholstery remnants, or heavyweight cotton blends also work well. Avoid stretchy or slippery fabrics, as they are harder to control without a pattern.

Finished Size (No Pattern Required)

This tutorial creates a medium-sized purse suitable for daily use.

Finished size: approximately 9 inches wide x 10 inches tall

This size comfortably holds a phone, wallet, keys, and small essentials without feeling bulky.

Cutting the Fabric Pieces

Cut the following rectangles:

Exterior fabric:

2 pieces – 10" x 11"

Lining fabric (optional but recommended):

2 pieces – 10" x 11"

Strap:

1 piece – 3" x 54"

(Adjust strap length to suit your height and wearing preference.)

Prepare the Strap

Fold the strap lengthwise with right sides together and stitch along the long edge. Turn right side out, press flat, and topstitch along both long edges for durability. Set aside.

Sew the Bag Body

Place the exterior pieces right sides together and stitch along the sides and bottom, leaving the top open. Repeat with the lining pieces, leaving a 3–4 inch opening at the bottom for turning.

For added depth, box the bottom corners by stitching across each corner approximately 1½ inches from the point.

Attach the Strap

Pin the strap ends to the exterior bag's right side, aligning them with the side seams. Make sure the strap is not twisted. Baste in place.

Join the Bag and Lining

Insert the exterior bag into the lining, right sides together. Align seams and stitch around the top edge.

Turn the bag right side out through the lining opening. Stitch the lining opening closed, then push the lining inside the bag. Press and topstitch around the top edge to finish.

Optional Closures and Custom Details

This purse works well as an open-top bag, but you can easily add:

A magnetic snap

A zipper

An interior slip pocket

Decorative topstitching or tassels

Small changes can transform the look while keeping the same basic construction.

This no-pattern cross-body purse proves that simple sewing techniques can produce practical, stylish results. Once you make one, it’s easy to experiment with different fabrics, sizes, and details to suit your personal style or everyday needs.

If you would prefer to have a PDF download of the instructions on how to sew a DIY cross-body purse, go to my Payhip store at this link https://theneedlemarket.shop/b/diy-cross-body-purse-without-a-pattern-pdf