2019 – Let’s Try

It is a new year and it has been a rough start so far. Typically, resolutions aren’t my thing, but new years and rough spots are always good times to evaluate and focus on what is important. So, that’s what I’ve been working on during my last few days off work. What do I want to accomplish this year? What priorities need to shift? What can I do to better myself for those around me?

I’m not jumping into all the details, but every goal starts with much better organization than I currently have. Keeping track of all the projects, responsibilities, side hustles, and just stuff in life is an ever present struggle. I think it is for most people.

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I’m super lucky in that my family gave me this kick-ass calendar this year. Since it is bang on theme, it also has spots for projects, ideas, fabric swatches, all the good stuff for us sewists!! I splurged on some delightful new pens to go with it (they even match all the pretty colors inside!) and got started documenting my entire life.

Boy, did writing it all down really bring into focus just how much I cram into my days and weeks. (Totally not complaining! I love it!!) Just the act of writing stuff down has always helped me remember my list. And a friend of mine was just telling me about the benefits of writing stuff down, so this seems like the perfect start!

I’ve got my list of tasks for the month. Due dates for tests and strikes. Depositions for the day job. Even books I want to check out from the library written down and ready to go. I just really need to stay motivated throughout the year to build and KEEP these habits.

So, how in the world does this pertain to a sewing blog? Well, I’ve got a super cute sewing calendar and pretty pens, but I clearly need a little pouch to carry the pens with the calendar!! I used the Made for Mermaids Zip Up Pouch freebie, which is just perfect for the handful of pens I want to carry with me. Plus, my sister gave me this gorgeous vintage sewing machine fabric forever ago!

Being indecisive, I used a team of four amazing seamstresses and one very annoyed sister to help me choose a lining fabric (which I didn’t even take a picture of) and the right zipper. Then, halfway through sewing, I realized I really wanted to up the game on the little carry strap the tutorial shows you how to add. So, I added some hardware to a little loop and made myself another key fob to attach to it!!

I figured, they’re so easy, why not quick tell you guys how to make them too?! They are super simple and the only thing you might not have on hand is the hardware (which I ordered on Amazon super cheap). All you need is a bit of fabric, some interfacing, your machine, the hardware, and a hammer! (Yeah, a hammer. You also get to work out a little frustration with this project.)

Cut out a 3×12 inch piece of your fabric. I usually fussy-cut so that a particularly pretty bit is showing. Iron on interfacing to this piece (1). Fold each long edge in 1/2 inch and press (2). Then fold in half, matching folded edges, press, and pin (3a, 3b). Do whatever topstitching you want at this stage (4). I just did 1/8 inch from each long edge. But it is fun to get fancy with it!! Use your crazy stitches or extra pretty threads. Go nuts. Then just fold your fob in half, slide it into the hardware (5), and hammer in place!! Be sure to use a couple layers of your pressing cloth to protect the hardware from damage.

That’s it. You’re done. They’re crazy easy to personalize with embroidery or vinyl, and make wonderful (and fast) gifts! I’ve given away quite a few so far and they’ve always been well received.

So, let’s all be a little more organized and work toward our happiness a little bit more this year. And let’s support each other while doing it.

Thanks for being here. <3

Stephanie