How to Turn Any Small Makeup Bag into a Stylish Purse

Have you ever found a small makeup bag with the perfect pattern or color but wished it could be more than just a place to store your cosmetics? Or perhaps you need a cute purse for vacation or an event, but don't want to risk damaging your designer bags? I made this bag for our recent trip to Hawaii. I wanted to have something cute to take to the beach and pool, but wouldn't care if it got covered in sand or sticky after a few Mai Tais. With a few simple tools and a little creativity, you can transform almost any small makeup bag into a chic purse that’s both functional and fashionable. Follow these steps to create a unique accessory that’s perfect for a night out or an everyday statement piece.

What You’ll Need:

• Small Makeup Bag: Choose one with a sturdy structure and a design you love. Keep in mind of how/where you'll attach a strap and also how many items you'll need to carry (phone, keys, lipstick, etc). The exact bag I used was part of Dior's 2023 Summer makeup collection, however you can still find some on Ebay and Poshmark.

  
  

• Belt Loop Punch: This tool will help create clean holes for attaching the hardware. Depending on the material you can use scissors if you prefer, just be careful not to stab yourself!

  
  

• Purse Hook Grommets: These will secure the holes and provide a place to attach the purse chain.

  
  

• Clip-On Purse Chain: Select a chain that complements the bag and is the right length for your style. I actually repurposed a chain belt that has been collecting dust in the back of my closest for the past 9 years, so feel free to get creative with your design.

  
  

Select Your Makeup Bag

The first step in this DIY project is choosing the right makeup bag. Look for a small bag that’s made from durable material, such as faux leather, canvas, or a thick fabric. The bag should have a bit of structure to hold its shape when transformed into a purse. The design, pattern, and color are entirely up to your personal taste.

Mark and Punch Holes

Once you’ve chosen your makeup bag, decide where you want to attach the purse chain. Typically, you’ll want to place the holes near the top corners of the bag. Using a ruler, measure and mark where the holes will go to ensure they’re evenly spaced.

Next, use the belt loop punch to carefully create holes where you marked. Ensure that the holes are large enough to accommodate the grommets, but not so large that they compromise the bag’s integrity.

Install the Purse Hook Grommets

With the holes punched, it’s time to secure them with purse hook grommets. Grommets not only reinforce the holes but also give your purse a polished look. Follow the instructions that come with your grommets to install them correctly. This usually involves placing the grommet on one side of the hole and securing it with a matching piece on the other side. If you used the one linked above, simply screw the grommet in until tightened.

Attach the Clip-On Purse Chain

Now that the grommets are in place, it’s time to attach the purse chain. Simply clip the chain onto the grommets, ensuring that the clips are secure. Depending on your style preference, you can choose a short chain for a hand-held purse or a longer one for a shoulder or crossbody bag. If you’d like, you can swap out the chain later to match different outfits or occasions, making this DIY purse incredibly versatile.

Style and Show Off Your New Purse!

Add a bag charm or scarf to give your bag some extra flair and ta-da your new purse is ready to go! Pair it with your favorite outfit and enjoy the compliments that are sure to come your way. This simple transformation turns an everyday makeup bag into a stylish and functional accessory that’s uniquely yours.

Transforming a small makeup bag into a purse is a fun and easy way to get creative with your accessories. Plus, it’s a great way to repurpose items you already have, making it a sustainable fashion choice. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just looking for a quick project, this idea is sure to add a personal touch to your wardrobe.

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