I found a tutorial and pattern for a Notebook-Pencil-Holder at One Red Robin and thought I would attempt one to see if it would work as a christmas present for my girls.
The tutorial is excellent – heaps of photos and easy to follow instructions.
I used an ‘iron on’ batting instead of interfacing because that is what I had on hand. It does make it a bit puffy and a bit tricky to sew around the edges. I will use interfacing next time. The fabric is from Amy Butler’s Charm range (I’m not sure if this fabric is available anymore).
The edges look very wobbly in the photo – it doesn’t look as bad in real life.
I found using a walking foot when sewing the pockets made things work a bit better – eliminated all of the puckers. I also used a top stitch needle.
I could only fit nine pencils in mine rather than ten, so I shall alter the measurements to make it wider. Plus I think it’s a bit tall for my book/pencils, so I shall make it a bit smaller and I shall place the ribbon ties in the middle.
So here are my measurements for next time:
Cover and Lining: 42cm by 25cm
Pocket: 42cm by 18cm.
I was surprised at how easy it was to make one of these. Definitely worth a go if you’re considering it.