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Wednesday, December 15, 2010

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

3 comments:

Susan McClaskey said...

Love your little pleated pouch.
Best,
Susan

Mytutorlist.com said...

Thanks, Susan! It's a present for someone. I hope she likes it too!

Nancy said...

Oh I wish I had seen your pattern before seeing Skip to my Lou's. I made about 10 for presents last Christmas. They were cute and easy but I think your design is more elegant. I might have to try that. Have you considered photocopying your pattern and loaning it out? I would love to make this one...love everything...design fabric...everything!

xox
Nancy