Old purses have a way of piling up in the back of closets. Maybe the handles are worn, the style no longer suits you, or you’ve simply found a bag you prefer using. Either way, an unused handbag doesn’t have to end up in the trash.

With a little creativity, parts of an old purse can be turned into useful household items, craft supplies, or even new accessories. Here are some ideas worth trying before you get rid of that forgotten bag.

Turn It Into a Planter

An old handbag can make an unusual planter for flowers, herbs, or succulents. Put a potted plant inside or add a waterproof liner first to protect the bag from moisture and soil.

Fill It With Essentials for Someone in Need

If the purse is still in good condition, fill it with toiletries, feminine hygiene products, socks, wipes, and other everyday necessities. You can donate the filled bag to a women’s shelter or outreach program, where it may provide someone with a ready-to-use collection of supplies.

Use It to Organize Craft Supplies

A roomy handbag can hold colored pencils, yarn, scissors, fabric scraps, and other craft materials. Its smaller pockets are handy for separating items such as needles, buttons, thread, and other supplies that tend to get lost.

Turn It Into a Stylish Doorstop

A sturdy, structured purse can become a decorative doorstop with some added weight. Place stones or another heavy material inside a sealed container, tuck it into the bag, and set it beside a door.

Salvage the Hardware

A damaged handbag may still have useful buckles, zippers, clasps, D-rings, magnetic snaps, handles, and straps. Save these pieces for future sewing or upcycling projects instead of buying new hardware every time you start a craft.

Make Jewelry From the Straps and Buckles

Leather straps and decorative buckles can be turned into bracelets, cuffs, or watch bands. Cut the materials to size and add beads, shells, embroidery, or other details to create a completely different accessory.

Turn Leather Scraps Into Bookmarks

A small piece of leather or faux leather can become a sturdy handmade bookmark. Cut it into your preferred shape, punch a hole near the top, and add a ribbon or cord for a simple finishing touch.

Make a Journal Cover

An old purse with attractive leather, embroidery, or patterned fabric may have enough material for a notebook or journal cover. You can even keep useful details such as pockets, zippers, and buckles as part of the finished design.

Create Wall Art

Vintage clutches, beaded handbags, and unusual purses can make interesting decorative pieces. Hang one on the wall, display it on a shelf, or place a sentimental bag inside a shadow box.

Turn a Round Purse Into Wall Storage

Round woven and rattan handbags are good candidates for this project because their shape can work as a small wall basket. Use one section as wall decor and the deeper half to hold lightweight items such as towels, mail, or small household supplies.

Make a Pet Bed

A large tote can become a resting spot for a small dog or cat. Add a washable cushion or folded blanket inside, then place it somewhere your pet already enjoys sleeping.

Create a Decorative Centerpiece

A structured handbag can hold faux flowers, greenery, dried stems, or seasonal decorations. Set it on a dining table, entryway console, or mantel for a decorative display with a personal touch.

Recover the Worn Areas

A purse with peeling or stained sections may still be worth keeping if the rest of the bag is in good shape. Cover damaged areas with denim, fabric, patches, embroidery, or decoupage to give it a fresh look.

Use the Fabric for Another Bag

If you like the shape of an old handbag but the outside is beyond repair, carefully take it apart and use the pieces as a pattern. You may be able to reuse the original lining, zipper, handles, or hardware when making a replacement from a different fabric.

Make Small Pouches and Coin Purses

Look for sections of leather or sturdy fabric that are still in good condition. These pieces can be cut and sewn into coin purses, card holders, small zipper pouches, or keychains.

Turn Scraps Into Clothing Patches

Leather and thick fabric from an old purse can be reused to reinforce worn elbows, knees, jackets, and bags. Cut the scraps into interesting shapes and use them as decorative patches rather than trying to hide the repair.