Discover how simple it is to make a stylish palm tree-inspired tassel using faux leather and a Cricut. I was thrilled to learn that the latest Cricut Maker can cut leather and create clean fringe — capabilities that make projects like this fast and precise. If you enjoy crafting, the Maker is worth considering: it handles materials that are difficult to cut well by hand, and it opens up new possibilities for DIY accessories.
I made this palm tree leather tassel as a small Mother’s Day gift. My parents love taking trips to Florida, and a beach-ready bag charm seemed like the perfect, portable reminder of sunshine and relaxation. This project is easy and requires no special leatherworking skills — just a Cricut, a few supplies, and some glue. Below is the full tutorial so you can make one for yourself or as a gift.
DIY Palm Tree Leather Tassel Bag Charm
Total Time: 45 Minutes
Supplies
Palm Tree Tassel File (download and upload to Cricut Design Space)
Cricut Maker
Strong Grip Mat (or appropriate mat for leather)
Fine Point Blade
Knife Blade (for thicker faux leathers)
Faux leather or real leather
Painter’s tape
Keychain ring or clasp (recycled from an old keychain or new)
Fabric glue rated for leather
Directions
- Download the palm tree tassel file and upload it into Cricut Design Space. If shapes appear filled in black, change the fill color so they cut correctly.
- Select the material setting that best matches your leather. For thicker faux leather use the Knife Blade and a Strong Grip Mat; for thinner faux leather the Fine Point Blade works well for smaller pieces.
- Secure the faux leather to the mat with painter’s tape for extra hold. Cut the tassel fringe, leaves, and the small strip used to attach the charm to the keyring.
- Slip the narrow leather strip over the keyring and glue the two ends together to form a loop.
- Slide the two leaf pieces onto the loop using the center slit cut by the Cricut so they sit above the tassel.
- Lay the tassel piece flat with the right side down. Glue the end of the strip to the top edge of the tassel piece.
- Apply a line of glue along the top of the tassel piece and carefully roll it to form the tassel. Hold it in place according to the glue manufacturer’s directions so the bond sets.
- Arrange the leaves on top of the finished tassel and secure them with small dots of glue.
- Attach the finished charm to a bag, tote, or basket-style purse. It makes a lovely accent and a thoughtful gift idea.
Photos by Jeff Mindell
(Dress | Hat | Shoes | Tote)
I might be keeping this one for myself — it’s hard not to! This project is a simple, stylish way to personalize a bag or create a thoughtful handmade gift. If you like working with a Cricut, experimenting with leather tassels and fringe opens up lots of creative options.
This post was created in collaboration with Cricut. The opinions and content are my own.