Upcycle a handbag chain

Making a Chanel chain

One of the hallmarks of a Chanel bag is the chain. The ribbon threaded through the chain is distinctively Chanel.

If you are wanting to give one of your bags an upgrade, you could do the same to the chain of the bag you had in mind. If the bag has no chain or too fine a chain, you can easily add one. As long as you can attach the chain on either side of the bag.

In the photo is a bag about to get it’s upgrade. I removed the original fine chain and was experimenting with ribbon on the left and silver rick-rack on the right. In the end I chose the ribbon for the new handbag chain. Adding a chain is an easy way to turn a clutch bag into one with a shoulder strap.

And all this ribbon and chain is not restricted to handbags. You could make yet another necklace, a bracelet or even make a chain belt. Ms Chanel’s contribution to fashion extends beyond quilted bags and fancy chains. Think LBD, Breton striped tops, two tone ballet pumps, box jackets and faux jewellery.

The Greenie Galleries at the top of this page have 100s of photos of older and newer projects showing multiple ways to make your own clothing and accessories. There are also ideas to recycle or upcycle.

See you son.

Greenie.