Handbags have always been a must-have fashion accessory, but designer and ''novelty'' handbags are now more popular than ever, especially those with a unique or handmade look. DESIGNER STYLE HANDBAGS presents 20 fun and fashionable projects: 10 bags, from a super-easy beach tote to a surprisingly elegant polymer clay purse; and 10 embellishing techniques that use the most popular crafting materials, including photo transfer, beading, embroidery, and collage. Detailed sewing/assembly instructions and full-size patterns are provided for all of the bag projects, but sewing skills aren't required, as the author also presents ideas for working with handbag blanks, which are now available at a wide variety of retail outlets.