DIY: Simple Zippered Pouch

Here's an easy starter project for everyone to try out!

This project is inexpensive, simple, and perfect for organizing all kinds of things!  I plan on turning mine into a little "always be prepared" type kit to throw in my purse.  I think I'll include chapstick, a pen, bobby pins, a granola bar, and a few other things I typically find myself wishing that I had remembered.  The great thing about this project is that it can be adjusted to any size you want.

Supplies:

1.) Zipper

2.) Scissors
3.) Fabric pen (you could also use a regular pen or marker, be sure to mark on the back of the fabric)
4.) Ruler
5.) Fabric
6.)Iron
7.) Thread

Sewing machine, pins, needles, and an ironing board are also helpful.

A sewing machine definitely makes this project easier and faster, but if you don't have one just sew it by hand.

Instructions:

First you need to decide what size pouch you want to make.  Whatever size you choose make sure you add some extra for the seam allowance, I added on an inch and a half.  The size of your zipper should be 1/2 inch less than the length of your pouch.

After you figure out the size you want your pouch to be cut your fabric accordingly.  

Next, fold the top 1/2 inch back (towards the back of the fabric) and iron it down.  This makes it easier to sew on the zipper.

Keeping the top part folded place your fabric on your zipper and pin.

Now it's time to sew on the zipper.  I don't know about everyone else, but I was sort of intimidated by sewing zippers at first.  This project is the perfect way to ease into it, there is quite a bit of room which makes it so you don't need to be right next to the zipper teeth.

Now do the exact same thing on the other side.

For the last step you just sew up the edges.  Unzip the zipper so that it is half open and turn your pouch inside out so that the right sides are together.  Sew around the edges and turn right side out through the zipper opening. All finished!

This project can also be jazzed up by adding appliques, buttons, ribbon, embroidery, etc. 

If anyone decides to do this project be sure to let us know!  You can e-mail your pictures to bloodthreadandtears at gmail dot com and we'll post them!

Erica