Appalled at the world’s most expensive handbag, the Hermes Birkin, Craftster brainybee was inspired to make “a decent copy out of garbage.” She cut up an old catalog, glued squares of it to some newspaper, and then ironed adhesive vinyl on the front. She lined it with scrap satin, and made faux crocodile out of painted duct tape. She also added a trash-picked lock for hardware, and upholstery tacks for “feet.” Save $199,998.00 and make it yourself. [click here for project info]

Here’s a photo of an original crocodile skin Hermes Birkin bag.

Project Estimate:

  • Old catalog, on hand
  • Clear contact paper, $1
  • Interfacing, on hand
  • Scrap fabric for lining, on hand
  • Duct tape, on hand or $1
  • Lock, on hand or $1
  • Upholstery tacks, $1

Total: $2 and up