I do so love giving handmade gifts. They always seem to go down well with the recipients and I like making them. This year, however, I'm hoping to avoid the last minute rush of 2014.
And so I've finished present number one - an open wide zippered pouch. Noodlehead's tutorial is straight forward and results in a pouch that, as the name implies, opens wide. I do like the method of adding the zip - there's no bumpy corners.
I changed the dimensions, cutting the fabric 8" square - taller and narrower than the original. I also made the boxed corners smaller at 2". This results in a pouch that is 6.5" x 6.5" x 2". For structure, I added Vilene H640 fusible fleece, which makes for a very soft pouch that can stand by itself.
This is my second open wide zippered pouch. The first was made with crazy patchwork, giving quite a different look. The fabric I've used this time is from Spoonflower; Felt Houses, by Julia Monroe. The story behind the fabric is fascinating.
My aim is to pace myself throughout the year. To help with motivation, I'm aiming to join in with Ho, Ho, Ho and On We Sew throughout the year. Each month there will be...
- a link party where everyone can add their Christmas makes
- guest hosts with a tutorial for a Christmas / holiday-themed gift or home decoration item
There'll also be giveaways throughout the year.
To start the series, Fiona, from Celtic Thistle Stitches, has written a tutorial for a fabulous quilted Christmas cushion. Next month it will be my turn, but you'll have to wait till February to see what I'll be making next.
What do you think - are we keen, super organised or just plain crazy, sewing for Christmas in January?
If you want to get a head start on your 2015 festive sewing, join us over at Ho, Ho, Ho and On We Sew.
This month's giveaway prize is this lovely Christmas Felt Bundle from Sarah at Pocket & Pin -->> |
... Pam
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Cute pouch Pam, I never think of looking for fabric on Spoonflower, but it certainly looks like I should!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the shout out on the giveaway too.
Awesome pouch,Pam!!!So cute houses!!!
ReplyDeletehugs
What a pretty little pouch! Making one for myself :-) Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteThank you. I already have some more cut out ready to make. It's a really great tutorial.
DeleteAdorable pouch....great idea to begin Christmas presents now. I enjoy your Blog very much, thank you.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Candy. Let's see if I can keep up the Christmas sewing.
DeleteAdorable! I really should start stitching now, too. I always make gifts but was unable to this pat year. It took some of the joy out of it for me.
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Laura
I think it's a great idea to start on Christmas projects now. My problem is I forget that I made them. I keep saying I'm going to create a specific spot in the house to store early bought or made gifts. Then I have to remember to look in that spot.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great pouch and I love the fabric you used for it. There are so many great choices on Spoonflower, it's always a great source for unusual prints.
ReplyDeleteThat's such cute fabric - you have to look closely to see it isn't actually appliqued felt, lol. Congrats on getting a gift done - doesn't it feel great? :D I'm glad you're joining us in Ho Ho Ho - and extra glad - and not surprised - that you're hosting a month - I can't wait to see what you come up with ;)
ReplyDeleteCute pouch! I thought you appliques those houses until I looked at it closely ;)
ReplyDeleteI do not think the series is a crazy idea. Some people work better in organized schedule. It would not work for me though...I am too disorganized and that is how I work :D
Super cute! I love the sweet houses! Great idea begin Christmas projects. I always need to have everything organized otherwise I stay nervous.
ReplyDeleteHope you have a wonderful week!
Hugs and love from Portugal,
Ana Love Craft
www.lovecraft2012.blogspot.com
Thanks, Ana. Let's hope I stay this organised throughout the year.
DeleteI like your pouch! I think it is smart to start getting ready for Christmas now! I've been working on Advent. Once I've done as much as possible I will start getting organized for Christmas!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Louisa. I have just finished another two zippered pouches, I am on a roll.
DeleteVery nice pouch and thanks for the link. I'm always way behind with my sewing. Good luck with the ho ho ho.
ReplyDeleteWhat a neat pouch and love the fabric you used Pam!
ReplyDeleteSuch a cute pouch. Thanks for the link.
ReplyDeleteI LOVE the idea of sewing throughout the year to be ready for Christmas! I always say I will, but..... ;) I know being in a group would be helpful and FUN! Thank you for sharing this with us at Treasure Box Tuesday, Pam- pinned! :)
ReplyDeleteI love this tutorial. I must make a couple more to have ready for gifts!
ReplyDelete