There are several methods.
Using two bandanas (co-ordinated colors is nice), face to face, stitch around leaving 2" open on one edge, then turn right sides out. Fold the four points half way to the center and pin. Stitch around 1/2 to 1" from the edges of the octagon thus formed. Thread two ribbons or shoe laces or similar through the four channels/tubes formed by the folded over corners. Stitch the original 2" opening closed. Turn it over and draw up the drawstrings. Voilá!
And here's a link for a different sort:
www.simplicityhomecare.com
For a larger purse/bag you may prefer to use additional fabric, perhaps denim or velvet, depending on the handkerchief. In this case the handkerchief is decoration. It handkerchief may be cut from corner to corner and half applied to each side or it may be cut diagonally an inch or so from the diagonal center line for two pieces and layer the smaller one over the larger. If the handkerchief is good-both-sides, it may just be folded there instead of cut. Either include it in the seam at the top opening or stitch the edge down anywhere and cover with a line of ribbon or similar. Here are instructions for making a reversible purse which may be decorated with handkerchiefs.
www.youtube.com
Using two bandanas (co-ordinated colors is nice), face to face, stitch around leaving 2" open on one edge, then turn right sides out. Fold the four points half way to the center and pin. Stitch around 1/2 to 1" from the edges of the octagon thus formed. Thread two ribbons or shoe laces or similar through the four channels/tubes formed by the folded over corners. Stitch the original 2" opening closed. Turn it over and draw up the drawstrings. Voilá!
And here's a link for a different sort:
www.simplicityhomecare.com
For a larger purse/bag you may prefer to use additional fabric, perhaps denim or velvet, depending on the handkerchief. In this case the handkerchief is decoration. It handkerchief may be cut from corner to corner and half applied to each side or it may be cut diagonally an inch or so from the diagonal center line for two pieces and layer the smaller one over the larger. If the handkerchief is good-both-sides, it may just be folded there instead of cut. Either include it in the seam at the top opening or stitch the edge down anywhere and cover with a line of ribbon or similar. Here are instructions for making a reversible purse which may be decorated with handkerchiefs.
www.youtube.com