It's the season of birthdays in our family again, when everyone turns another year older. And it all happens in such a rush for our kids. We've just had a 21st, an 11th and a 14th all in two weeks. I'm used to strapping myself in for the ride now, but when did that all happen, that my babies got so old??In the midst of all this craziness, there has also been a rush of birthday parties invites for other friends, and my favourite part is making a gift to match the personality of the birthday child. A younger friend of my daughter's has just turned 10, but still loves pink and purple very muchly. I love it when that sugary sweet stage stays around for longer...I am always on the lookout for a unique gift, and the other day, this one caught my eye. The Zola Pencilcase, from the So Can She blog. This is a version of a pencilcase that has been around for quite a while in different versions, and I just love Caroline's free tutorials, always easy to follow, and more often than not, very budget friendly.This pouch is made from a fat quarter, or less of several different prints, some fusible fleece, and a zipper.
It's one of those really clever designs that mysteriously looks very complicated, but is actually very simple and easy to make. The longest part for me was picking out the right combination of fabrics, always an agonising decision when I have quite a number that fit the bill exactly. This fabric from my stash is some of my favourite Flutterberry by Melly and Me, paired with some plain purple spots and prints from Spotlight. It fit the colour favourites of the birthday girl perfectly.
When unzipped, it opens right up to reveal everything at a glance. I love it when a design is functional and stylish, and easy to make!
Plenty of opportunities for fussy cutting my little heart out!It also has a snap on the tab end of the zipper, that attaches to the base of the pencilcase and forms a carry handle. (Spot my lego props helping to hold it all square for the photo!)
I added my label to one side. And it always makes me feel like I'm nearly a professional when I do that lol!
And as a final cute as pie touch, I made a little clay cherry charm to hang from the zipper. It's my favourite part personally, as they looked good enough to eat :).We paired it with some other fun accessories, and wrapped it up with love.
Join my Facebook community
If you're a social bee, get involved with over 1100 sewists, quilters, and creators from around the world. Share your creations and get inspired!
