Decorated Sizzix Big Shot Pro Pillow Purse

I've seen some beautifully decorated paper craft items in many fun shapes.  The March 2011 issue of Scrap & Stamp magazine showcases Purses Galore and includes some cute purse-shaped cards for inspiration.

After eyeing it up for nearly a year, I finally treated myself to the Sizzix Big Shot Pro and a pillow purse die.  Ahhh . . . it was so easy to get this great purse outline shape.  I love that I can use any patterned paper or cardstock for magnificent effects.  If I ever see any clear cardstock in 12x12" then I have to pick it up!

I used KI Memories Posh Society double-sided patterned paper for these great big circle shapes in such pretty colors.  It makes me think this could make a cute birthday gift package.  I used Cats Eye chalk ink in Prussian Blue to ink all edges.

I attached the handle to each outside flap using Tim Holtz idea-ology washers and long fasteners.  Another washer on the inside allows the handle to be movable.

I found a pretty rhinestone brad in a K&Company Christmas Cheer package and thought it would make a nice closure.

I love the way this 1/2" lace looks across the front flap when pleated on the underside.  Fabri-Tac really worked wonders on this.

Now I'm ready to add some red line tape on the far seam of each outside flap and secure the sides to close this little pillow purse.  Sweet.  The assembled purse is about 6" wide, 5 3/4" tall and the bottom is about 2 1/4" deep (the depth narrows toward the top until the flap folds over for closure).

I added some Basic Grey Magnetic Snaps to secure my top flap closure.  I had a little trouble finding an adhesive to hold the magnet over the brad and finally had success with Tombo Mono Metal Liquid Glue.  I added some cardstock reinforcements to lighten the magnetic hold yet allow it to hold firmly.

Finally I die cut two sets of Magnolia Doohickeys Doily Flowers and painted their surfaces with Diamond Stickles.  I used coordinating smooth aqua cardstock from my scrap stash to punch some McGill pine branches and spread some stickles over them too.  Finally, when dry, I attached the layered flowers with a brad and glued the whole sparkling, lacy bloom to the purse front.

I really enjoyed putting this Sizzix Pillow Purse together and I'm happy with the daintiness of the lace and jewel tones.  It looks like a sweet gift package that will hold an assortment of smaller items like candy, lip gloss and other make up products, tea lights, and of course movie tickets, money and gift cards.  What do you envision being inside?