What to Expect at a Purse-Building Workshop: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ever wondered what it’s like to design your own purse from start to finish? At a Waterloo Bags Workshop, you’ll do just that and have a blast doing it. Our workshops are hands-on, social, and surprisingly easy, whether you’re a creative at heart or just looking for something new and fun to try.
Whether it’s a bachelorette party planned by ATX Bach Parties, birthday celebration with a balloon arch by Dream Occasions Atx, or a team-building event catered by Sophistibaker, this is the perfect activity to bring everyone together. You’ll laugh, connect, and leave with something you actually love, a one-of-a-kind purse that’s entirely your own.
In this post, we’ll walk you through exactly what to expect at a purse-building workshop, step by step from the moment you arrive to that exciting final purse reveal.
Step 1: Arrive, Sip, and Get Inspired
When you step into a Waterloo Bags Workshop, the inspiration hits you right away. You’re greeted by a friendly team, upbeat music, and a beautiful display of purse bases, straps, and accessories all laid out in front of you in 11 stunning colors. The tables are lined with every part you’ll need to create your own custom bag with accessories around the room while the room buzzes with creativity and conversation.
Around the space, you’ll also spot a collection of pre-built purses for inspiration — from our bright and cheerful lemon purse to color combinations inspired by favorite sports teams, college pride, or even sorority colors. Everywhere you look, there’s an idea waiting to spark your imagination.
Grab a drink, chat with your friends, and take a look around you. You might find your design inspiration in the purses around you, or even from the people creating beside you. However it happens, your creative journey starts the moment you walk through the door.
Step 2: Choose Your Purse Base and Hardware
Now that the ideas are flowing, it’s time to bring your vision to life. Start by choosing your purse base, available in 11 vibrant colors, that ranges from bold and bright to neutral and classic. This is where your bag’s personality begins to take shape, and no two designs are ever the same.
Next, select your hardware finish to complete the look. Whether you prefer gold, silver, rose gold, or gunmetal grey, the hardware you choose ties everything together and gives your purse its signature style.
There’s no right or wrong combination, just what feels most you. Some guests match their hardware to their jewelry, while others pick a finish that makes their purse pop. Either way, this step sets the tone for your one-of-a-kind creation.
Step 3: Mix, Match, and Make It Yours
This is where the fun really begins. It’s time to customize every part of your purse! From the base and panels to the handles and straps, you get to choose each color and combination that speaks to your style.
Some guests love a coordinated look with one signature color, while others mix and match bold shades for something totally eye-catching. The best part? There’s no wrong way to build your bag. Whether you’re going sleek and simple or bright and playful, your purse will be as unique as you are.
At Waterloo Bags, there’s zero judgment — only encouragement. We love seeing everyone’s creativity shine through, no matter the color palette or design. Your style, your purse, your way.
Step 4: Time to Build — No Craft Skills Required!
With your colors and hardware chosen, it’s time to put everything together. Guests attach panels, straps, and hardware under the guidance of our friendly staff, who are always nearby to help. No sewing required, only a screwdriver is necessary.
Even if you’ve never crafted a purse before, you’ll find the assembly process easy and satisfying. Step by step, your custom creation comes to life right in front of your eyes — and the sense of accomplishment is instant.
Step 5: Add Your Personal Touch (Foil Stamping Optional)
For those who want to take personalization to the next level, foil stamping is a fun option. Currently, it’s available for corporate events, where companies can stamp their logo or name on each purse for a sleek, branded touch.
Exciting news! Foil stamping will also soon be available online once our website revamp is complete, so everyone will have the opportunity to add that extra layer of personalization to their custom bag.
Whether it’s initials, a name, or a logo, this step turns your purse into a truly unique keepsake, perfect for gifts, giveaways, or commemorating a special event.
Step 6: The Big Reveal — Show Off Your Creation!
After all the mixing, matching, and assembling, it’s time for the exciting moment, the big reveal! Guests gather to share their finished purses, snap photos, and celebrate their creativity.
Many attendees also start thinking about where else they could host a purse party, whether it’s a corporate team-building event, a bachelorette party, a sorority gathering, or another social celebration.
If you’re planning a private event, it’s easy to get started. All that’s required is a $200 minimum in purchases, and you can host your own custom purse-building experience for friends, family, or colleagues.
Step 7: Keep the Fun Going
The workshop doesn’t just end with the purse in your hands. Many guests immediately start brainstorming ideas for future events, sharing styling tips, and exploring additional accessories to complement their new creation. It’s the perfect spark for creativity and social connection, long after the workshop wraps up.
Step 8: Wrap-Up — More Than Just a Workshop
Waterloo Bags workshops are about creativity, connection, and confidence. You’ll leave with a one-of-a-kind purse and memories that last far beyond the workshop itself.
If you don’t have time for an upcoming workshop or aren’t ready to plan your own event just yet, don’t worry — our revamped website will soon allow you to build your custom purse online, so you can create your dream bag anytime, anywhere.
Ready to Build Your Own Purse?
Whether in person or online, a Waterloo Bags Workshop is the perfect way to express your style, have fun, and create a bag that’s entirely yours. Check out our upcoming events or plan your own private workshop at Create Your Own Private Purse-Building Experience – Waterloo Bags and start building your dream purse today!
