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-->Handbag Hardware - the quest for the Hex Flex Frame
Due to the fact that I am self taught, one of my greatest challenges is figuring out the structural supports needed to create durable handbags. This little Hex Flex frame was quite the discovery for me. I knew that it existed but did not know the name, sometimes knowing the name is the battle. The frame reminds me of the old snap bracelets, put the two metal pieces together using a bolt- pull to open and snap to close. The Hex flex is nice option for handbag closures, I prefer it over zippers. You can find them at www.ghees.com or www.uhandbag.com, as well as Ebay and by using Google.
Here is a How to from www.uhandbag.com that will help you install the Hes Flex frame.
How to use Internal Hex Open Frames (not to be confused with ‘Flex’ frames)
Making a purse with a Hex Opening frame is much like making a bag with an elasticated or drawstring opening. Drawstring bags have a casing (fabric tube) sewn into the opening of the bag through which the cord or elastic is threaded though; for Hex Opening frame purses/bags we just substitute the cord for a Hex Frame - easy!
• Sew the purse exterior and purse lining to your desired size ensuring that the width of the purse will be at least 1.5″ (4cm) wider, than the frame itself (it can be even wider if you wish).
• Place the lining bag into the exterior and sew a casing (fabric tube) large enough to accommodate the flex frame by folding down the top edges of the entire purse down (just as if you were making a drawstring bag) except we are going to leave both sides of the casing open.
• The Hex frame comes in 4 parts; 2 frame halves, and 2 hinge pins. Assemble one of the hinges of the frame by bringing the two frame halves together (pliers make this bit easier) to bring the hinges together and inserting one of the pins into the hinge.
• Insert the frame into the casing (so that the unhinged ends go in first) through one of the open sides. Push the frame through until the unhinged ends are exposed at the other side.
• Make up the hinge on the other end of the frame as before.
• Sew both of the open edges of the casing closed.