Two Questions. :]

[moontrip.livejournal.com]

Can clear nailpolish prevent unravelling of certain fabrics? I'm working on a skirt (from pants) with ruffles, and I don't have enough room to hem before I add the ruffles, so can I just brush clear nailpolish over it? I know it works with runs in panty hose or tights, so I figured it might work on other things too. The fabric is a polyester/rayon blend. If I can't use clear nailpolish, any ideas or suggestions? Hopefully something you know already works from experience/etc.

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Also, I plan on making unique purses to sell. I have ideas on the body, shape, and design, etc., but I don't have many ideas for purse straps. So far I have:

Chains of some sort
old belts with buckles removed (webbed belts?)
strips of fabric, mismatching or matching
beads on cord or string (but its not very sturdy..)
braided fabric or some sort of macrame?

I kind of want them to be sturdy, reliable and unique at the same time. Any ideas? Hopefully that I can make from stuff found around the house or that might already be in my sewing boxes?

And any advice on hand-sewing purses that won't fall apart? I know the ones I make for my own personal use are sturdy enough, but I don't want people to be disappointed in what they buy from me. If they buy from me. I use embroidery thread and use double stitching most of the time.. I dunno, any advice in general would be awesome.

Anyways, thanks! :D

p.s. - I hope this isn't too annoying because its text-only >.< I just don't have any photos of finished crafts to post right now. but I will soon!