Zipper Bag Trio

I finally have a finished project to share with you! I'm not sure why my output has been so low this year. I've only finished two quilts so far, and both of them were extremely easy.

I bought this zippered pouch pattern as a kit from Connecting Threads. The pouches were simple and quick to make. I started this project on Monday night with Joannie. Before I got started, I replaced the bottom color strip (they provided beige--I hate beige) and changed out the provided lining fabric from a very dull cream color to a vibrant orange. It took me over an hour just to cut out the pieces of fabric, but I do tend to work slower at night so I don't make mistakes (I'm a morning person). On Monday night, I got as far as inserting the zippers, but when I was sewing the first one I ran out of bobbin thread, so it was time to call it a night.

The bags are bright and cheerful. The smallest is about 4"x7".

Tonight, I squeezed in about two more hours of sewing time and finished them off. It took a little longer than usual because I was running out of orange thread, so I kept changing the thread from grey when I was doing interior construction and it wouldn't be seen, to orange for topstitching and zipper insertion.

Here's a couple of things I will do differently the next time I make them. First, I will add zipper tabs to the top. I love zipper tabs. I think they make it easier than cramming the zipper tape into the seam and sewing over it, which always leaves a little bump. Second, I will omit the interior pockets. Not sure why you would need pockets in such a small bag. Third, I will reduce the wrist strap to a loop and add a "D" ring so that you can clip it to things.

Here is a free pattern from Moda Bake Shop that is very similar. I've made it before and it is also quick and easy. The pattern above from Connecting Threads uses interfacing to stabilize the fabric, whereas the Moda pattern uses quilt batting and you have to prequilt your fabric before assembly.

I definitely want to make some more of these. I've already promised my husband Mike a set for his guitar accessories. I'm keeping this set. I'm so happy to have something finished!

Linking up on Friday to Confessions of a Fabric Addict, Richard and Tanya Quilts and CrazyMom Quilts. Thanks so much for visiting!

Pugs and kisses,
Nancy