This time of
year I like to print out a new set of calendar pages for my day planner. Then I like to get started planning. This year I decided to spruce up the old day
planner with a new cover.
I've never
made one before so I had to put a little bit of thought into what I wanted and
how the heck I was going to make it. I
sketched it out on paper and after running it over in my mind for a couple of
days I was ready to get busy.
The fabric I
selected from my stash and I love it!
To begin I
cut two pieces that were 9" X 12" and two pieces that were 6" X
9". I also cut some interfacing in
the same dimensions. I cut the 6" X
9" piece of interfacing in half so I would have two pieces measuring
3" X 9".
I folded and
pressed the 6" X 9" pieces in half lengthwise and inserted the
smaller pieces of interfacing inside the folded pieces. I pressed them again and then topstitched the
folded edge. These pieces will make the
side pockets to hold notes, lists, coupons, etc.
Next I
layered the pieces so the larger pieces faced each other with the smaller
pieces sandwiched in between at the edges.
I layered the interfacing on top and pinned it all into place.
After
stitching the edges with a 1/4" seam allowance, leaving a 2 inch opening
for turning, I clipped each corner. I
then turned it all right side out and pressed it.
At this
point I decided to add a pieced of elastic to hold the calendar pages in
place. Next time I'll add this before
sewing but this time I just turned in inside out again and used my seam ripper
to open the top edge a little bit and tucked in the elastic. I stitched it in place, turned it right side
out and tucked the end in place at the opening.
Once it was pinned in place I topped stitched it between the side
pockets to close the opening and hold the elastic.
I also
decided after the fact to add an elastic loop so I could make a closure. Next time I'll add it before I sew it all
together too. I picked a button out of
my button jar and stitched it into place.
After trimming I folded them in half to fit inside better |
Who has hot pink elastic?! Apparently I do. |
Lastly, I
took my printed pages and trimmed off the tops of each page a little to fit
inside the cover. I also added a piece
of cardstock trimmed to size to add a little more stiffness to the cover,
although it was pretty nice all on its own.
Love the side pockets for tucking in notes, lists and coupons. |
Fits inside my purse perfectly. |
For my first
one, and a prototype, I think it turned out fairly well. I'm sure it will last quite awhile and I'll
get a lot of use out of it.
Very nice. I love the fabric you chose.
ReplyDeletePaula in Kansas
Thanks Paula.
DeleteNice...but it can get grubby and dusty over the months. You might want to spray it with protector, or cover with plastic.
ReplyDeleteCompletely washable! :)
DeleteFound your blog. I love the day planner you made. I really have to get started on mine. I was going to do so today and ended up knitting and playing with a little baby....
ReplyDeleteGod bless.
Glad you found it! Hmmmmm, dayplanner..... baby..... I'd pick baby too!
Delete