Sewing Pretty Things: Scrappy Needlebooks

Completed Needlebooks!

I can't really take credit for these. I been desperate to get back into sewing, long stymied by my great ambition and complete lack of real success. This spring I've been itching to get back to sewing, and have decided to focus on smaller projects that I know I can complete. I do still want to make my entire wardrobe someday, but my skills need to catch up.

The big project (full of little projects) to get me sewing again is to make a suite of sewing accessories; a needlebook, a hussif (sewing kit, I will tailor mine for hand embroidery), knitting needle cases, and reline my sewing basket. I would ideally like to do all of these little projects in coordinated fabrics, but that will most likely change as I can't settle on a theme.

I found this adorable needlebook tutorial on Nana Company's blog, as well as a follow up post with some changes she has made as her design has evolved over time. I made these for friends; I thought about adding embellishments to the pages but the needlebooks are so small I honestly didn't think it was necessary. I added a pocket to slip a seam ripper or slim notebook in, and used 100% wool felt to keep the needles sharp and lubricated. The fabrics used for these is "Aloha Girl" by Moda.

I really love how low commitment this project is - if you are scrapped for time you don't even need to put together a patchwork back 'cover' or do any applique, quilting or hand embroidery.