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Stitched Sewing Organizers: Pretty Cases, Boxes, Pouches, Pincushions & More
Celebrate and use your sewing skills with Aneela Hoey's 15 stylish yet functional patterns for a wide variety of sewing organizers. Designed to work together, many of the smaller projects fit into larger ones and can be made into a coordinating set. Showcase trendy fat quarters and half-yards or use up scraps of your favorite fabric as you make cute containers for yourself, to give to your friends, or to bring to swaps!
231 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2017
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May 20, 2018Lynette has been bringing a variety of sewing organizers, pouches and organizers to Show and Tell over the past year or so. As you know, I like making bags and I admired and asked her about various projects as she brought them in. One day she asked me if I wanted to borrow this book. She had and extra copy and I jumped on the chance. It sat on my shelf for awhile, but today I finally has the opportunity to read it.
Short answer: great book, go buy it now.
One thing I really liked about this book were the thumbnail photos of all of the projects right at the front of the book (pg.4). The thumbnails have the page number of the project alongside the thumbnail. the first 25 pages cover Materials and Supplies (pg.10-13), Tools (pg.14-15), Basic Sewing Techniques (pg.16-23) and a section called "Making the Projects" (pg.24). The final 100ish pages are instructions for making the projects.
In the Introduction the author, Aneela Hooey, says "I have become addicted to making sewing pouches over the last few years. I think it is the combination of being able to create something both stylish and at the same time practical..." (pg.7). I like this explanation, but for myself I like these types of useful organizer patterns for gifts. I like to give things I make as gifts, but I don't always like to give a quilt on a deadline. These pouches , holders, trays and pouches make good options.
Hooey couches the materials and supplies section as items that are useful to have on hand (pg.10). She suggests using the best fabrics and discusses interfacings in such a way that makes the reader understand why she uses the products she is using. I also like that she tells us her favorite products, including brand (pg.11). The author's instructions about vinyl are a little different than Vanessa of the Crafty Gemini, but probably work just as well. She does not mention special machine feet, which can be useful (pg.12).
Except for a few items, the tools mentioned are very basic. Every quiltmaker will have them already, which means a quick start to making some of the projects! The items I probably don't have, and with which I am least familiar, are the fusible tape and a drawstring threader (pg.14-15). It is always good to learn how to use a new product or tool!
In the Basic Sewing Techniques section, Aneela talks about some standard machine settings she uses such as "slow speed setting," "needle down," etc (pg.17). I thought this approach was a clever way of getting around the tendency to try to teach people to sew in 10 page or less. The author also includes a well illustrated tutorial on installing zippers (pg.18-19), which can easily be supplemented by some YouTube videos. I liked that the author included some basic directions for trimming corners (pg.20), "sewing the gap closed" (pg.21) and inserting a magnetic closure/snap (pg.22). These are skills which are expected in some projects, but which aren't often covered in books. I thought they were pretty useful.
In the "Making the Projects" section, the first page covers what Aneela means by certain terms and how to use the project sheet at the back of the book (pg.24) . This means the reader has something to which to refer, if s/he does not understand some terminology.
The project part of the books starts with a section called "Small Things" (pg.25). This is where it would be nice to have more thumbnails of the projects in this section. Project include a needle book with a tie closure (pg.26-29), a fold-up pouch (pg.30-33), tape measure cover (pg.34-37), and a green tomato pincushion (pg.38-40).
One of my favorite projects from the book, the Fold-Up Sewing Folio (directions pg.42-49), kicks off the "Cases and Folios" section (starts on pg.41). Of course, it would be the longest pattern in the book up to this point :-) In this section, Hooey shows how some of the smaller projects from the Small Things section can be used along with the cases and folios.
The Two-in-One Case (pg.50-54) looks like it would be a great gift. The author uses different closures on each project, including a button and button hole (pg.55-62). I would probably stick with sew-in magnetic closures despite my rule that says I should make the pattern as it reads the first time.
The Pouches section starts on page 63 with a lifestyle shot of all the project in this section. it is interesting to see what can be considered a pouch! The first project is the "See-it-All Pouch" (pg.64-68) reminds me of the Crafty Gemini Roadtrip bag. I know there area limited number of variations in all bag and pouch type projects. I am not suggesting fraud of any kind. I think it is interesting to see the difference between the two patterns. A maker could certainly add a lobster clip and D ring as suggested by Crafty Gemini to Aneela's pattern and have a different look. The corners on Hooey's pattern are much more professional looking.
The Drawstring Pouch (pg.74) would make a great gift bag. The other projects in this section include the Triple Pouch (pg.74-82), the Boxy Pocket Pouch (pg.83-90) and the Big Zip Pouch (pg.91-94). I really like all of these projects and would consider sewing all of them. I finally noticed while reviewing this section that the project name is printed at the bottom of the pages, throughout the book, covering that project. Very useful feature.
The final project section is called Boxes and Totes. On the section's title page, Aneela Hooey included a lifestyle photo of all the projects. Again, I like it because it gives me a frame of reference. From this section, I especially want to try the Fabric Boxes (pg.96-100). They are great for organizing the little things that clutter up my sewing and cutting tables.
This is a great book. I can imagine making most, if not all of the projects included. For me, this means good value for dollars spent on the book (even though it is a loan!). Because the optic is bags/pouches, I don't mind it being a project book. I do need the directions for making 3D items.
I would highly recommend this book if you want patterns for gift items or if you want to organized your own sewing supplies for on the go sewing. Go buy a copy now<\a>!
Short answer: great book, go buy it now.
One thing I really liked about this book were the thumbnail photos of all of the projects right at the front of the book (pg.4). The thumbnails have the page number of the project alongside the thumbnail. the first 25 pages cover Materials and Supplies (pg.10-13), Tools (pg.14-15), Basic Sewing Techniques (pg.16-23) and a section called "Making the Projects" (pg.24). The final 100ish pages are instructions for making the projects.
In the Introduction the author, Aneela Hooey, says "I have become addicted to making sewing pouches over the last few years. I think it is the combination of being able to create something both stylish and at the same time practical..." (pg.7). I like this explanation, but for myself I like these types of useful organizer patterns for gifts. I like to give things I make as gifts, but I don't always like to give a quilt on a deadline. These pouches , holders, trays and pouches make good options.
Hooey couches the materials and supplies section as items that are useful to have on hand (pg.10). She suggests using the best fabrics and discusses interfacings in such a way that makes the reader understand why she uses the products she is using. I also like that she tells us her favorite products, including brand (pg.11). The author's instructions about vinyl are a little different than Vanessa of the Crafty Gemini, but probably work just as well. She does not mention special machine feet, which can be useful (pg.12).
Except for a few items, the tools mentioned are very basic. Every quiltmaker will have them already, which means a quick start to making some of the projects! The items I probably don't have, and with which I am least familiar, are the fusible tape and a drawstring threader (pg.14-15). It is always good to learn how to use a new product or tool!
In the Basic Sewing Techniques section, Aneela talks about some standard machine settings she uses such as "slow speed setting," "needle down," etc (pg.17). I thought this approach was a clever way of getting around the tendency to try to teach people to sew in 10 page or less. The author also includes a well illustrated tutorial on installing zippers (pg.18-19), which can easily be supplemented by some YouTube videos. I liked that the author included some basic directions for trimming corners (pg.20), "sewing the gap closed" (pg.21) and inserting a magnetic closure/snap (pg.22). These are skills which are expected in some projects, but which aren't often covered in books. I thought they were pretty useful.
In the "Making the Projects" section, the first page covers what Aneela means by certain terms and how to use the project sheet at the back of the book (pg.24) . This means the reader has something to which to refer, if s/he does not understand some terminology.
The project part of the books starts with a section called "Small Things" (pg.25). This is where it would be nice to have more thumbnails of the projects in this section. Project include a needle book with a tie closure (pg.26-29), a fold-up pouch (pg.30-33), tape measure cover (pg.34-37), and a green tomato pincushion (pg.38-40).
One of my favorite projects from the book, the Fold-Up Sewing Folio (directions pg.42-49), kicks off the "Cases and Folios" section (starts on pg.41). Of course, it would be the longest pattern in the book up to this point :-) In this section, Hooey shows how some of the smaller projects from the Small Things section can be used along with the cases and folios.
The Two-in-One Case (pg.50-54) looks like it would be a great gift. The author uses different closures on each project, including a button and button hole (pg.55-62). I would probably stick with sew-in magnetic closures despite my rule that says I should make the pattern as it reads the first time.
The Pouches section starts on page 63 with a lifestyle shot of all the project in this section. it is interesting to see what can be considered a pouch! The first project is the "See-it-All Pouch" (pg.64-68) reminds me of the Crafty Gemini Roadtrip bag. I know there area limited number of variations in all bag and pouch type projects. I am not suggesting fraud of any kind. I think it is interesting to see the difference between the two patterns. A maker could certainly add a lobster clip and D ring as suggested by Crafty Gemini to Aneela's pattern and have a different look. The corners on Hooey's pattern are much more professional looking.
The Drawstring Pouch (pg.74) would make a great gift bag. The other projects in this section include the Triple Pouch (pg.74-82), the Boxy Pocket Pouch (pg.83-90) and the Big Zip Pouch (pg.91-94). I really like all of these projects and would consider sewing all of them. I finally noticed while reviewing this section that the project name is printed at the bottom of the pages, throughout the book, covering that project. Very useful feature.
The final project section is called Boxes and Totes. On the section's title page, Aneela Hooey included a lifestyle photo of all the projects. Again, I like it because it gives me a frame of reference. From this section, I especially want to try the Fabric Boxes (pg.96-100). They are great for organizing the little things that clutter up my sewing and cutting tables.
This is a great book. I can imagine making most, if not all of the projects included. For me, this means good value for dollars spent on the book (even though it is a loan!). Because the optic is bags/pouches, I don't mind it being a project book. I do need the directions for making 3D items.
I would highly recommend this book if you want patterns for gift items or if you want to organized your own sewing supplies for on the go sewing. Go buy a copy now<\a>!
June 14, 2017
This is the perfect book for beginners and experienced sewists alike.
Like all good project books, Stitched Sewing Organizers starts with the basics of sewing. Aneela talks about fabrics, fleeces and fusible, she discusses sewing machine techniques and covers how to fit zippers.
With 15 projects, each varying from a simple Pincushion to a Needle book and a more fiddly Triple pouch and Boxy pocket pouch.
With each item simple and easy to follow instructions are given, with measurements and even drawn basic diagrams that are uncomplicated and clear.
This colorful craft essential will be to the delight of most sewists and would make the ideal gift. It is a wonderful book to have to hand and if you have a piece of fabric no matter what size it is there is bound to be a project in it for you or a gift for a loved one.
What I particularly liked is that each project can be adapted. Either add a pocket or leave one off depending on your needs and it becomes the perfect item for your organising needs.
The book comes with a double sided pattern sheet for each project, and Aneela also gives exact measurements for each part of whatever project you are working on.
Like all good project books, Stitched Sewing Organizers starts with the basics of sewing. Aneela talks about fabrics, fleeces and fusible, she discusses sewing machine techniques and covers how to fit zippers.
With 15 projects, each varying from a simple Pincushion to a Needle book and a more fiddly Triple pouch and Boxy pocket pouch.
With each item simple and easy to follow instructions are given, with measurements and even drawn basic diagrams that are uncomplicated and clear.
This colorful craft essential will be to the delight of most sewists and would make the ideal gift. It is a wonderful book to have to hand and if you have a piece of fabric no matter what size it is there is bound to be a project in it for you or a gift for a loved one.
What I particularly liked is that each project can be adapted. Either add a pocket or leave one off depending on your needs and it becomes the perfect item for your organising needs.
The book comes with a double sided pattern sheet for each project, and Aneela also gives exact measurements for each part of whatever project you are working on.
July 6, 2020
I feel like this book could hold the secret to making me a more organised sewist. There are pattern / organiser options here for everything - a little sewing case to take with you as you go about your day to squish some sewing into your dentist wait for example. Pouches or totes to organise the pattern and notions all in one place for a part completed project, fabric boxes to make the sewing room beautiful as well as organised.
Great fabric choices for the projects, basic sewing instructions (all that should be needed) and zipper insertion. There are lots of zips in the projects, but once you get zips you will not fear them.
Patterns included as necessary. Only it's a Stashbook publication so there are no metric measurements. Sigh! Again!!! So for the rest of the world minus the three countries that don't use metric measurements there will be a lot of converting going on. I won't bother. Back on the library shelf quick smart.
Great fabric choices for the projects, basic sewing instructions (all that should be needed) and zipper insertion. There are lots of zips in the projects, but once you get zips you will not fear them.
Patterns included as necessary. Only it's a Stashbook publication so there are no metric measurements. Sigh! Again!!! So for the rest of the world minus the three countries that don't use metric measurements there will be a lot of converting going on. I won't bother. Back on the library shelf quick smart.
February 10, 2022
ETA the blog link and a few project photos: https://blog1.andreamcdowell.com/2022... Photos at the bottom, of the five projects I've made so far now from the book.
I have now made up two projects (the foldover pouch and boxy pouch) and both have worked well, with easy-to-follow instructions and accurate pattern templates and measurements. Being me, I modified them (embroidered the outer pocket on the boxy pouch and made the foldover pouch exterior crazy quilted), but the projects will work well as given and make up a useful and practical object that looks appealing.
I've used leftover fabric from clothing projects for both, and many of the pattern pieces and projects are small enough that you can, if you are like many sewers and have bags of oddly-shaped pieces of nice fabric that are too big to throw away and too small to use for clothing, find a very satisfying way to use them up creatively. I'll come back to post pictures of my own if and when I blog them.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CZzcPlYFWu5/
I have now made up two projects (the foldover pouch and boxy pouch) and both have worked well, with easy-to-follow instructions and accurate pattern templates and measurements. Being me, I modified them (embroidered the outer pocket on the boxy pouch and made the foldover pouch exterior crazy quilted), but the projects will work well as given and make up a useful and practical object that looks appealing.
I've used leftover fabric from clothing projects for both, and many of the pattern pieces and projects are small enough that you can, if you are like many sewers and have bags of oddly-shaped pieces of nice fabric that are too big to throw away and too small to use for clothing, find a very satisfying way to use them up creatively. I'll come back to post pictures of my own if and when I blog them.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CZzcPlYFWu5/
September 26, 2017
The book provides a variety of formats of sewing organizers with clear instructions for making them. I would say that they are sewn, not stitched since most of them are constructed using a sewing machine and they are not generally decorated with hand embroidery.
A good variety of cute projects.
A good variety of cute projects.
October 23, 2017
Lots of good patterns for bags or pouches to hold sewing supplies. There's a really nice zipper pouch that has three separate compartments I'd like to make. Also, a large tote to store everything you need for a particular project in an easy to carry bundle. It also includes smaller projects like a needle book and pincushion.
December 11, 2017
It had some good information on tools and basic sewing skills. It had full color pictures of all of the projects along with good descriptions on how to complete the projects. At this time I don't have any time to sew, but I would check this book out again from the library when I do to make some of the items.
January 29, 2019
This is a nice book with several projects to help keep your stuff organized. Unlike some of her other books, this one does not incorporate embroidery in the projects, so this was a little disappointing to me as I love her emboidered designs. There are lovely photos and detailed instruction for the projects in this book.
November 23, 2022
There simply wasn't enough illustrations to get you through the project. I really love Hoey's work, and her newer pdf patterns (available online) are definitely much better than what she has here.
I'd love to give a higher rating but if you've made any of her projects, you'd know that precision is a big thing in most of her projects. Give this book a pass and look for her newer patterns.
I'd love to give a higher rating but if you've made any of her projects, you'd know that precision is a big thing in most of her projects. Give this book a pass and look for her newer patterns.
June 30, 2020
I liked some of the ideas but I found that the containers were very dependent on patterns which is difficult although there was a link to get them online. I also found there weren’t enough pictures with the instructions for some of the projects. I did love the diversity of the types of containers.
December 6, 2017
I will order this book back to utilize some of the sewing projects, like the see through pouch, or drawstring pouch or organizer boxes for containing the sewing tools in use. Aneela is British.
February 12, 2018
This is such a fun book full of easy to follow patterns. I'm a beginner and I had no problems making these projects. Buy this book!
September 20, 2018
15 projects with directions and templates included. Although the first section of the book has details aimed at beginners, the projects require some sewing experience.
December 31, 2018
Nice patterns to make small projects
April 30, 2019
Gorgeous organisers. Very inspiring.
September 29, 2019
Someone ripped the pattern pieces out of the library book, so I can’t make most of these. There are a couple that are just a series of measured rectangles though that I’m eager to try.
October 2, 2023
interesting projects for making organizer bags of all kind.
August 12, 2024
I like the various container projects in this one.
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