New Pleated Pouch Design

Now that school's out, I have time to try out some new sewing tutorials! Today's experiment was a pleated pouch.

I used the tutorial from Skip To My Lou as a guideline, but I changed it. I didn't like how flimsy the finished pouch looked in the tutorial, and I didn't want such a tall band on the top. Also, I wanted the pleats to fan out from the center.

So I cut my own templates out of cardboard (from cereal boxes, no less!) and just guessed on the correct dimensions and shapes. I made the top band thinner, the bottom section wider to allow for more pleats, and I used heavy interfacing to make the exterior more sturdy. There is also micro fleece sewn to the backside of the inner lining to give it softness and some support.

I think the hardest part was figuring out the correct places to make the pleats, and how to make them even.
I also added a little wristlet strap to the pouch, and I changed the shape of the inner lining from a U-shape to a shape that more closely matches the outside look of the pleated pouch.
The end result is very pleasing! I think it looks really pretty, and especially in this fabric combination (which is part of a new fabric stash from Fabric Bee).
If I was to change something, it would be to use medium interfacing or the microfleece for the outer fabric. I feel that the heavy interfacing is too "crunchy" for the pleats. I want a bit of a softer look and feel for future pleated pouches. Nevertheless, this pleated pouch is a winner in my books.

What do you think of it?

Have a happy day!

UPDATE 04/30/2011

If you would like to make this pleated pouch, the pattern and instructions can be found in my shop http://bluepandemonium.etsy.com

You can also purchase the PDF sewing pattern through this secure link to Paypal