My Portable Embroidery Organizer

Not that I needed another 'organizer' for my stuff! BUT . . .

I saw a free pattern on Sew Can She web site last month and decided to give it a try. The cut-out handles really sold me on this project! A bonus - the pleated pockets are large enough for my phone. AND the interior with its 6 interior pockets, is the perfect size for fat quarters. It's also easy to close with the magnetic snaps.

I choose some Japanese fabrics from my stash. These had been gifted to me many years ago by an elderly lady, whom I visited frequently. In fact, I inherited most of her sewing and quilting stash when she passed away. This sewing organizer will always remind me of Nina.

As I'm not one to follow all the rules (good or bad????)! I did change the type of stabilizer from a medium weight fusible interfacing to some Peltex (fusible one side) that I had on hand. I did not use the flex foam stabilizer (bought some to try but didn't). In any case, the sides were a bit thick. I did manage to sew the binding on by machine on the straight parts but hand sewing, using the wonder clips, finished the organizer.

I decided to do some free-motion embellishment on the fabrics. For the pockets I used Totally Stable and a variegated thread by Superior Threads. I think it added to the project.

I also used these neat wonder quilter's clips to hold the binding in place while it was stitched on.

 

I like the cut-out handles and they are so easy to do.

Magnetic closure

Lots of pockets: 6 inside and 6 outside.

I'm pleased with the result and not sorry that I used the heavier stabilizer.

• Check out Sew Can She for lots of free patterns and tutorials.
• DIY Sewing Organizers  
• Sewing Patterns to Organize Your Life
• 50 + Sewing Organizer Patterns at All Free Sewing

Enjoy!!

Work in Progress

I'm trying to complete a few UFOs during the winter. This piece of Sashiko was started several years ago. I made a plastic template and drew it out on the fabric. The stitching was just completed! YAH! Now I have to finish it for my coffee table. Here's a sneak peek at the piece:

I have a variety of Japanese fabrics but mostly in fat quarter sizes but I found this blue piece with koi fish all over it that will work perfectly for the back.

Added to my Stash . . .

I visited Piece Makers Quilt Shop yesterday. They have a new shipment of batiks. I also picked up a piece of Japanese fabric which I couldn't resist!

Here's what I added to my stash! Enjoy!