Do you have to wash the chip wrappers before you cut?
I would suggest washing all wrappers before you cut and begin to fold.
I do this by putting them in the kitchen sink and running water inside to rinse out. I then take a soapy wash rag and clean the inside. I didn't pay much attention to washing the bags on my first purse but when I went to a picnic and put my purse on the ground...............guess what I got??? ANTS!!!!
How to cut each piece.
I use my rotary cutter and mat to cut all my wrapper pieces quickly. You could also use paper cutters or cutters made for scrapbooking. Another option would be to make a template from hard plastic or cardboard. Trace and cut each piece individually.
What size to cut each piece
My favorite size to cut each piece is 2 inches X 4 1/2 inches. There are many different sizes that you can use. The dollar bill size piece will allow you finish a purse faster. Here are a few other sizes you may wish to use:
2 1/8 X 4 3/4 inches 2 1/4 X 5 inches 2 3/8 X 5 1/4 inches 2 1/2 X 5 1/2 inches 2 5/8 X 6 1/8 - Dollar bill size
How Many Pieces Do I Need?
This depends of the size of purse you are going to make. For the most common purse you see, each row consist of 62 wrapper links. You will need 7 rows joined together to make a purse that is approximately 10 1/2 X 5, for a total of 434 pieces. You will need one additional row of 62 wrappers if you want a handle.
Large coin purse - use pieces cut 2 1/2 X 4 3/4 inches. 36 links per row, 4 rows (144 total pieces)
For a cosmetic or make up pouch - 44 links per row, 6 rows ( 264 total pieces)
Clutch handbag - 52 links per row, 5 rows (260 total pieces)
The coin purse below was made with only 4 rows of 28 links each. Approximate finished size, 3 X 5 inches. You might want to start out by making one of these little coin purses. They are made the same way as the purse, so follow the same directions. It makes a great starter project.