DIY Tutorial: How to Make a Coconut Shell Purse

by CrystalClutch / Monday, 05 September 2022 / Published in Blog

Coconut shells, often discarded as waste, can be transformed into beautiful and eco-friendly accessories like a purse. Not only is this DIY project a fun activity, but it also allows you to contribute to sustainability by upcycling natural materials. In this tutorial, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to make a stunning coconut shell purse. Let’s get started!

1. Gather Your Materials and Tools

Before diving into the crafting process, ensure you have all the necessary materials and tools. Here’s a table listing what you’ll need:

Materials	Tools
Two coconut shells (halved and cleaned)	Hand saw or hacksaw
Small leather or fabric strips for hinges	Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
Fabric for lining	Drill and small drill bits
Zipper	Hot glue gun or strong adhesive
Thread and needle	Scissors
Decorative embellishments (optional)	Pencil

Take time to clean and dry your coconut shells thoroughly to work with a solid and smooth surface.

2. Prepare the Coconut Shells

To begin, use the hand saw or hacksaw to cut the coconut shells into two equal halves. If the halves are already separated, inspect the edges to ensure they are even. Use medium-grit sandpaper to smooth the edges and outer surface of the shells. Once you’re satisfied with the shape, switch to fine-grit sandpaper for a polished finish.

Drill small holes around the edges of each coconut shell, where you will attach the zipper or hinges later. Space the holes evenly, about 1–1.5 cm apart, to maintain a uniform look.

3. Line the Coconut Shells with Fabric

Cut your chosen fabric slightly larger than the size of the shell’s interior. This will serve as the lining for your purse. Using the hot glue gun, carefully adhere the fabric to the inside of each shell, pressing it flat to remove air bubbles. Trim off any excess fabric that extends beyond the edges.

Lining not only adds a professional touch but also protects the contents of your purse from the rough coconut surface.

4. Attach the Hinges

Take the leather or fabric strips and cut them into small pieces to serve as hinges. Attach them to one side of the coconut shells, connecting the two halves. Use a strong adhesive or sew them in place, depending on your preferred method. Ensure the hinges are secure enough to allow the purse to open and close smoothly.

5. Add the Zipper

The zipper is a crucial component for functionality. Align the zipper along the drilled holes on the open edges of the coconut shells. Use a needle and thread to sew the zipper into place, threading through the drilled holes for extra stability. Ensure the zipper slides easily and the purse closes tightly.

If sewing isn’t an option, you can also use a strong adhesive, but sewing generally provides a more durable finish.

6. Embellish Your Coconut Shell Purse

Now comes the fun part—decorating your purse! You can paint the outer surface of the coconut, add rhinestones, beads, or other decorative elements. If you’re inspired by the luxurious look of crystal clutches, consider visiting CrystalClutch.com for design ideas and high-quality embellishments.

Personalize your purse to make it truly unique. Whether you prefer a boho aesthetic or a glamorous sparkle, this step allows you to showcase your creativity.

7. Attach a Handle or Strap (Optional)

If you’d like to carry your purse as a clutch, you can leave it as is. However, for more versatility, consider adding a handle or strap. Drill an additional hole on each side of the purse near the hinge area and attach a chain, leather strap, or braided cord. Secure it tightly to ensure it can bear the weight of the purse’s contents.

8. Final Touches and Inspection

Once all elements are in place, carefully inspect your coconut shell purse. Check the hinges for flexibility, the zipper for smooth operation, and the decorations for secure attachment. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure that the purse is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Conclusion

Crafting a coconut shell purse is a rewarding project that combines creativity, sustainability, and practicality. By following this step-by-step guide, you can create a unique accessory that’s sure to turn heads while reducing waste. Whether you use it as a statement piece or gift it to a loved one, this DIY project showcases the beauty of upcycling natural materials. So grab your tools and get started on your eco-friendly fashion journey!