Cotton + Steel Pouch

Not sure about you...but I can't get enough of Cotton + Steel.  It just seems to make every project look cool.  Today is a small finish that was inspired by Heidi Staples at Fabric Mutt.  If you read her blog you will see some great zippered pouches/sleeves.  I had a little extra fabric and just improvised this pattern.  I used Essex Wide Linen in Denim which is a great coordinating fabric.  I tried some wavy stitching to add some texture to the project since the back was all one fabric.  Thanks to Heidi for the idea to put on a little leather pull to the zipper, I really think it makes a huge difference to the finished project.  More Cotton + Steel coordinates for the lining.  It measures 9 1/2 by 10 1/2 so I think it would be a good pouch inside a tote or a nice size for a small tablet and cables. 

Linking up with Crazy Mom Quilts

Patchwork Zipper Pouches

These are some patchwork zippered pouches that I made for presents this year.  There are many great zippered pouch tutorials out there, for this one I used the Quilted Patchwork Pouch at Moda Bake Shop by Julie Hirt.  I love this pattern because it teaches you how to make boxed corners, insert a zipper, and has lots of possibilities for quilting the pouch.  The directions and pictures are easy to follow.  The patchwork makes it easy to quilt diagonal lines or you can do straight lines with your walking foot guide.  You can use 2 1/2 inch squares or a mini charm pack.  I used Sunnyside by Kate Spain, Weeds by Me and My Sister Designs, and Social Club by Eric and Julie Comstock.  A great place to buy mini charms is Green Fairy Quilts.