Introduction: Make a Denim Purse With Cardboard
I came up with the idea of making a "denim" covered purse out of cardboard and acrylic paint.
Step 1: Cut Pieces Out of Cardboard
For this purse, the length is 7 and 1/2 inches. One piece is cut to to a width of 3 and 1/2 inch, while the large, triangle shaped piece is 7 inches overall.
Step 2: Using Paper As the Hem
Cut several pieces of kraft paper to 3/4 of an inch. This will be folded in half, fitted to the cardboard pieces of the purse, and glued into place.
Step 3: Glue the Two Pieces Together
I used regular white glue for this, but a tacky glue is good too.
Step 4: Prime the Pieces With White Paint
Just like painting the barn, you need to start with a primer coat.
Step 5: Paint Purse With "Denim" Colored Paint
Paint with the grain of the cardboard, and try to leave bits of the white primer showing through. Using a "dry" brush works best.
Step 6: Paint White Highlights
Again, using a dry brush, add white highlights to the blue denim "material".
Step 7: Paint on Stitching
I used an orange paint diluted with some white so the thread appears faded. It is used denim, after all. Each stitch is highlighted with an off white, and a shadow is placed next to each stitch with a very fine marker. Dots are painted at the end of each stitch.
Step 8: Add Rivets and Clasp Button
Here, I painted the rivets with orange and burnt sienna. A shadow is drawn with the black marker to give the appearance of a shadow. For the clasp button, I used a template to draw a black circle, then filled it in with a gold paint. Lettering is added: Levi Strauss....appropriate enough.
Step 9: Velcro Is Used As a Closure
Velcro is added to keep the top closed and protect the money!

Participated in the
Gorilla Glue Cardboard Contest
18 Comments
12 years ago on Step 9
why not use actual denim? it would be more practical and harder wearing
12 years ago on Introduction
Sure did look like denim. I read that it was cardboard and had to look at it again just to make sure you weren't pulling our legs. Still not sure!
Great instructable. Good photos. Good step by step process.
Reply 12 years ago on Introduction
Gotcha! Thanks for your comment...I assure you it is painted cboard! Cman
12 years ago on Introduction
Beautiful execution of a clever idea. This would be a great way to 'wrap' a gift of cash or a gift card for a teenager. It could be reused to keep ticket stubs and other bits and pieces. Something like that just might inspire me to keep track of my receipts. *g*
Reply 12 years ago on Introduction
Thanks Wicken. Cman
12 years ago on Introduction
Trompe l'Oeil! You are very talented.
12 years ago on Introduction
Again, excellent work.
12 years ago on Introduction
I was totally fooled - great job!
Reply 12 years ago on Introduction
Thanks Ninzerbean. Cman
12 years ago on Introduction
You have been busy lately C'man. Thanks for all the great ideas. You present them very nicely and clearly too. Great work!
Reply 12 years ago on Introduction
Thanks again, Dave. Cman
12 years ago on Introduction
Quite a good job on the exterior, you definitely had me fooled when I was looking at the thumbnail!
Reply 12 years ago on Introduction
Thanks JRF....Cman
12 years ago on Introduction
How did I miss this one, very cool CMan as usual you did an excellent job!
Reply 12 years ago on Introduction
Thanks Deb...just put it in, so you're right on schedule! Cman
12 years ago on Introduction
Whoa! That's super creative. I'll have to try this. I'll be linking as well.
12 years ago on Introduction
You could use a real riveted snap for the closure too!
Reply 12 years ago on Introduction
Good idea, never crossed my mind. thanks. Cman