Recyle old jeans

An average lap top measures approximately 15" X 10" and your bag should be slightly larger, so add 1-2 inches. This bag is lined but that isn't required. Great linings can be made with recycled tee shirts, sweat shirts or flannel.

The body is made from the legs of large size jeans. Cut open the inseam and it may be large enough depending on the size.

Mix & match, sewing pieces together to get a front and back section in the desired dimensions.
Children's jeans might require that you join two or three legs to get the width and length required.
Sew pockets onto front and back along with any other embellishments, which are limited only to your imagination and the materials available.

With right sides together, sew the sides and bottom of both the lining and the denim pieces. For both bag and lining, fold the top edge to the wrong side and press with a hot iron. Turn the bag to the right side but leave the lining with wrong side showing and slip it into the bag. Sew the top edges together.

Cut a piece of jean fabric the width of the bag and about 5 or 6 inches long to become the flap. I attached the button holes from waistbands in three places, added buttons there and attached the strap to the sides. A strap can also be made from waist bands.

This little clutch is made from several pairs of jeans. The front is an intact front with the waistband cut off. The back is made from leg pieces of several pairs, sewn together, then cut to match the front piece. I used two waistbands to cover the purchased clam style closure.

This purse is unlined and a lining isn't usually needed or expected, but would be a nice upgrade if you're making bags to sell and want to charge higher prices.

Although a sewing machine makes construction easier, purses can certainly be sewn by hand. And some aspects can't be very easily accomplished on a machine. Reinforcement at corners and where straps are attached is necessary whether done by machine or hand.
I've found that the thread color you choose isn't much of an issue, almost any color looks good.

Recycled jean purses make excellent flea market items as they are very unique and buyers know they're getting a one of a kind fashion statement.

In my experience, the only expense is with closures, fasteners, buckles or other fittings or hardware. None of which are essential but do add a professional, high style flair. I've always asked family members and coworkers to pass on their worn out, out-grown jeans, tee shirts and sweat shirts and the supply never dwindles.