You never know when or where inspiration will strike. And if you’ve got a creative spirit, the odds are good that you can find a project pretty much anywhere.
Self-taught sewing artist Bolly took one look at IKEA’s popular FRAKTA and just had to turn it into a funky handbag.
I mean, why not?
This wouldn’t be the first time we’ve seen the FRAKTA reimagined into a quirky accessory.
Clever hackers have turned the big blue bag into everything from IKEA sneakers to a practical apron. And the list goes on.
This cute, whimsical handbag was born from this pattern designer’s desire to bring together two of her loves—IKEA bags and ruffles.
And the best thing, she’s specially making a ruffle bag for a lucky IH follower! Join the giveaway. You could be the one.
What You’ll Need
- 1 IKEA FRAKTA
- Fabric of your choice
- Seam ripper
- Scissors
- Mini clothespins (to help hold pleats)
- 1 Snap
- Sewing machine, needle, thread
Turning the IKEA FRAKTA Into a Cute Ruffle Bag
1. Decide on Your Pattern
You can create your own pattern for your handbag or look for options online. If you want to know how Bolly made her purse, she mentions that she’s happy to share details privately, so reach out to her with questions!
2. Cut Your FRAKTA and Fabric
Cut out the FRAKTA according to your chosen pattern, along with the fabric for the lining. Save the bag’s handles to use as your handbag strap. Also, the hacker opted to cut and save the barcode tag to repurpose as a fun detail.
3. Sew It!
After you have everything cut and pinned just so, it’s time to sew! After you have everything cut and pinned just so, it’s time to sew! The hacker used mini clothespins to hold the pleats in place for sewing. Attach the snap or closure of your choice.
If you’re new to sewing, check out secondhand stores or online marketplace sites for a good, used sewing machine. It’s a great way to learn on a budget, but make sure to get one that’s in good working order.
I can tell you from experience that trying to sew (especially if you’re learning) on a wonky machine is super frustrating and will make you give up on your sewing dreams before you barely begin.
As with any project, it pays to get good tools, be patient, and avoid taking shortcuts.
@bollyscommonthread Another fun IKEA upcycle for you to win! 🫶 To enter: 👉 Follow @bollyscommonthread 👉 Tag a friend (1 comment = 1 entry; enter as many times as you like!) There will only be one winner between TikTok and the other app, enter on both platforms to double your chances! 💗 Winner announced in EP 3 of The FRAKTA Flip! 🇸🇪✨ This giveaway is an independent giveaway and not associated with IKEA. @IKEAUK @IKEA @IKEA Deutschland @IKEA France @IKEA Italia @IKEA Switzerland @IKEA Sverige a@IKEACanada @ikeadanmark @IKEA România #TheFRAKTAFlip #IKEAhack #UpcycledFashion #BollysCommonThread #UpcycledBags ♬ CHANEL – Tyla
An IKEA Hacker’s Creative Process
Why did you decide to turn the FRAKTA into a handbag?
“It was a silly little make after my IKEA trip, and I ended up liking it.”
What’s your advice to someone new to sewing?
“I have my massive box of failures and unfinished projects, too. It really is all part of the process. You got this! Keep practicing, and just like me, you’ll learn from any mistakes you make. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes because that’s how you learn a new skill, especially in sewing.”
How did you start your sewing journey?
“I started off with small projects on YouTube, then eventually branched out into using clothing patterns, and now pattern designing. YouTube is a wonderful place. On Facebook, you’ll also see many supportive groups!”
What Are People Saying About This Ruffled FRAKTA Handbag?
Everyone loves the bag, with many comments mentioning that it’s so silly, it’s amazing. One person even said, “It’s hideous, I love it!!”
People are obsessed with the little blue purse, and they want one, leading the hacker to plan a whole TikTok series dedicated to different designs. She’s dreaming up clutches, totes, and so much more.
Several people mentioned they would love to get a bag like this with a lid, so she said she’ll definitely showcase a new design in one of her upcoming videos.
Another fun idea was to add charms, with a few comments jokingly suggesting tiny hammers and screwdrivers (or maybe an IKEA pin?) to build on the IKEA theme.
What do you think? What style of bag would you love to see next? If you decide to whip up your own design, make sure to share it with us!
Join The FRAKTA Handbag Giveaway
Bolly is giving away her FRAKTA handbag. To enter:
👉 Follow @ikeahackers on Tiktok or @ikeahackersofficial on Instagram
👉 Follow @bollyscommonthread on TikTok or Instagram
👉 Tag a friend on the giveaway post (1 comment = 1 entry; enter as many times as you like!)
There will be two winners (one on TikTok and one on Instagram). Enter on both platforms to double your chances! A random winner will be chosen from the comments. See you there.