How to turn a totally ugly little coin purse you snagged for pennies at the flea market into the cutest, most fabulous fashion accessory ever. Just add a few vintage buttons, a little stitching magic, and voilà — instant wow factor! Get ready for the compliments to roll in!
How to Turn a Flea Market Coin Purse into a Tiny Work of Art (with Vintage Glass Buttons!)
You know those sad little coin purses you spot at flea markets? The ones buried under a pile of mystery objects, priced at “make me an offer”? Yep, those. Grab one! Because today, we’re giving that unloved little pouch a full-on glow-up with the help of vintage glass buttons. ✨
What You’ll Need:
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1 old coin purse (the more tragic, the better)
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A handful of vintage glass buttons (the sparklier, the better)
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Needle + strong thread
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Scissors
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Optional: A patch of velvet or lace for extra flair
Step 1: Clean It Up
Give your coin purse a little TLC — wipe it down, maybe even give the inside a gentle vacuum if it’s seen some things. You want a fresh(ish) base to work with.
Step 2: Plan Your Sparkle Strategy
Lay out your buttons before sewing anything. Cluster them in a corner, create a fun swirl, or go full glam and cover the whole front. There are no rules here — just vibes.
Step 3: Stitch with Love (and Strength)
Sew your glass buttons onto the fabric with strong thread. Go slowly — these little beauties are delicate. Double-knot everything so they stay put when you’re digging for quarters or secret lip glosses.
Optional Extra: Layer Up
Feeling extra? Sew a small piece of velvet or lace onto the purse first, then add your buttons on top. It gives a little “French antique store” energy, in the best way possible.
And voilà! You’ve just turned a junky coin purse into something totally fabulous. People will stop you in the street. “Where did you get that?” they’ll ask. And you’ll say, “Oh this? Just a little flea market rescue. With buttons.”
Wanna try this yourself?
Check out Zaza of Canada for one-of-a-kind vintage glass buttons that are dying to live their best lives on your next upcycling project. They sparkle, they’re rare, and trust me — your boring coin purse has never looked better.
