5.11.2012

TUTORIAL: Fabric Bookmark with Pocket


Here's a simple little tutorial you can whip up just in time for Mother's Day.
Who wouldn't love to receive a pretty bookmark with a little gift card or special note tucked in a clear pocket?

Grab some scraps and let's get to work.
 You'll need:  
  • 2 fabrics rectangles, 3.25inches x 7 inches
  • 1 rectangle of mid-weight, fusible interfacing 2.5inches X 6.25 inches (I use Craft Fuse)
  • 1 scrap piece of vinyl
  • optional ribbon scrap 
 With right sides together, sew around all  sides with a 1/4 inch seam allowance, leaving a small opening for turning on one short end.
 Clip the corners, turn right-side-out and iron.
Fold interfacing in thirds and slide it inside the bookmark.


 Then using a pen or knitting needle, flatten it out
Iron according to the manufacturer's instructions.
 If you are using a ribbon, fold it in half and insert the raw ends into the opening, pin in place.

 Grab your vinyl scrap and lay it on top of bookmark.  It should be about 3 inches tall.  Don't worry about the width, you'll trim it later.  It's best to have it hang over the sides, it makes it easier to sew.

Sewing with vinyl is like sewing oilcloth, it can be tricky.  My walking foot had no problem at all with this.  If you don't have a walking foot, there are some great tips HERE at sew, mama, sew.

With the vinyl in place, top-stitch all around, making sure to catch all the vinyl (this won't be a problem if you cut it larger than the bookmark) and close the opening you left for turning.
Add a gift card or note and you're done!



 A sweet little gift for someone special.
 Your mom, a friend, a favorite teacher....


Who will you give yours to?

5.09.2012

Red Pants

Yesterday I went to 3 stores in search of a pink cardigan for the little girl and pants of any kind, that cost less than $15, for the boy.  I came home pretty much empty handed.


So, I turned to Dana's kid pants tutorial.  I made a few pairs last year and decided to try it again.  All I had in my stash was some red linen-like fabric and though they do the trick, it's hard to come up with tops that work with red pants.
Guess I'll just have to buy more fabric :)
And if you've got a keen eye, you might spot a preview of a simple, stash-busting tutorial coming up.  Any guesses?

5.07.2012

Bike Bucket for a Boy

 My friend Roselee and her kids were over last week for some biking and she commented that it was time to make my son a bike bucket.  She has made some really cute ones for her girls. 
 So I followed the same Noodlehead tutorial she used and voila, bike bucket for a boy!  

The one thing I did differently is make the lining about 2 inches taller than the exterior, so I could just fold it over and sew in place, rather than sewing a separate binding on the top.

My son is just starting to really ride his bike, and yes, he is riding his older sister's hand-me-down Dora bike.  Now much more manly with his construction themed bucket.
The perfect spot to carry along a special friend.