Flat Fanny Pack

May 15, 2020May 15, 202010 Comments

Here is my second fanny pack! This one is a flat version.

The construction of this fanny pack is quite a bit easier than my classic fanny pack.

It has a zipper window rather than a zipper on a curve. This is a great option if you are learning how to sew zippers. The difficulty level on this project is about a 3.5/10. You have to use a zipper foot. You will be working with lining, and your stitching has to be exact.

Since it is flat it can’t hold much, but it is perfect for your phone, lip gloss, or to act as a wallet. There is even an optional credit card pocket.

The pattern has two sizes, small and regular. The regular fanny pack is about 14.5 inches wide, 6 inches tall from tip to top, with a pocket about 5.25 inches deep. The small size is about 13 inches wide and has a pocket approximately 4.75 inches deep.

Here is the free pattern!

Flat Fanny Pack Pattern by learncreatesew

DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS:

Classic Fanny Pack

May 13, 2020May 13, 2020Leave a comment

I have been wanting to make a fanny pack for years, and I finally did!

This is a classic fanny pack with a curved top flap. It’s what I always picture in my head when I think of a fanny pack. I made several different patterns before I settled on this one, and it was by far my favorite. It is fully lined, so no raw edges! But you could definitely make it with a single layer if you wanted to.

The waistband is also adjustable.

Since the zipper is on a curve, there is a bit of difficulty, probably a 5/10. If you aren’t as comfortable sewing zippers and think this might be a bit much for you, don’t worry! My next tutorial is a flat fanny pack and the zipper installation is much easier.

The dimensions of the fanny pack are approximately 13.5 inches side to side, 4 inches tall, and the top flap is about 2.5 inches deep. It tapers to a point at the bottom.

Here is the free pattern & my video instructions!

Enjoy!

Classic Fanny Pack Pattern by learncreatesew

DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS:

You can use different fabrics for the fanny pack.

Canvas and denim are great for the exterior. You can even use regular cotton fabric, but I do recommend interfacing. I used SF101, but a fusible fleece would probably work good as well.

You can use top stitching as a decorative element and to add stability to the bag.

On my denim bag I used contrasting thread so the top stitching would stand out, and two rows on the sides to give it more of a “jeans” feel.

Keep an eye out for my next tutorial and I’ll show you how to make a different style of fanny pack!

No Sew Fleece Face Mask

May 6, 2020May 7, 20203 Comments

I know what you are thinking…not another face mask! I promise, my next project will be something different, but I couldn’t resist. I was talking to my mom about different types of face masks and when fleece came up I just had to share this idea.

Not all of us are seamstresses, but we all need face masks.

Here is a super quick pattern if you need something easy and convenient.

Fleece No Sew Face Mask Pattern by learncreatesew Final

They only take a couple minutes to make! You trace and cut.

Fleece is a great choice for the fabric, as it won’t fray, but I have also used the pattern for flannel. I used pinking shears to limit frayed edges. Just know if you choose to use a woven fabric the edges will fray eventually, especially when washed.

Here is the video tutorial if needed!

Detailed Instructions:

Face Mask with Wide Fabric Ties

May 5, 2020May 7, 20205 Comments

With face masks on the brain lately, I can’t help but think of new ways to make them.

This new tutorial has a wide fabric tie in the back, kind of like you would see on a bandanna or headbands. I really like the look of it.

It has an odd shape when flat, but when you wear it it fits snugly against the face. It is also easier to tie than the small straps.

Here is the free pattern!

Wide Tie Face Mask Pattern by learncreatsew Final

DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS:

It also fits nicely inside the key chain face mask case!

Face Mask Key Chain Pouch Web Pattern by Learncreatesew

Key Chain Case Instructions:

Face Mask with Yarn Ties in 3 Styles

May 4, 20202 Comments

Here is a new version of my face mask tutorial!

It uses the same pattern as my previous tutorial that had fabric ties.

Face Mask Family Sizes by learncreatesew

The fabric ties are great! They are durable, comfortable, and work really well. That said, they can be time consuming to sew and can be challenging for beginning sewers, so I started searching for an alternative.

I had just finished my rag doll tutorial and yarn was EVERYWHERE in my house. It inspired me 🙂 Why not have yarn ties for face masks.

Yarn ties are super easy! They are quick and make the construction of the face mask very simple. I made a few test masks and ran them through the washer and dryer in a lingerie bag and they came out great. The ties also are easy to make in different styles.

There are a few drawbacks to yarn ties. First, always tie them with bows. If you get a knot, you may not be able to get it undone and may have to cut your tie. Second, some people may be sensitive to the feel of the yarn behind their ears and neck. Use soft yarn if possible. They are also not as sturdy. As a result, I still recommend fabric ties for durability and for donations, but yarn ties are great for ease and convenience. So, if you’re just looking for something to grab when you run to the gas station or mail box, these are great!

This tutorial shows you how to make 3 different styles of yarn ties. Two long ties behind the head and neck, two short ties to tie behind the ears, and one long tie to tie behind the head.

DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS

These masks also fit great in my Face Mask Key Chain Cases

Face Mask Key Chain Pouch Web Pattern by Learncreatesew

Rag Doll Part 2 – Adding the Hair

May 2, 20202 Comments

Here is the second installment of my rag doll tutorial. This was by far one of the most difficult videos I have made. Not because the process is hard, but because there are so many different styles of hair that can be selected and so many methods with which it can be applied.

I spent a lot of time deciding what I would share because I didn’t want anyone to feel limited in the approach they had to use. Not to mention, there was a whole lot of yarn that did not want to cooperate and stay in place while filming! Apparently it does not take direction well.

I really enjoyed using multi-colored hair on this doll. Mixing and matching colors strand by strand was a lot of fun, and I really like the look it created.

On the above doll the majority if her hair is the dark purple color. The wefts added at the bottom were all the same color, however at the top, I added just a bit of contrast.

I hope that you can take the methods used in this video and expand upon them to make something all your own 🙂

I love the drastically different looks you can create by altering hair styles and color.

Here is my rag doll pattern in case you missed it in the last post. The doll is just over 14 inches tall when completed.

Rag Doll Pattern by learncreatesew

ADDING THE HAIR DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS:

Rag Doll Part 1 – Constructing the Body

April 30, 2020May 2, 2020Leave a comment

I have finished my rag doll pattern! I’ve been working hard to create the instructional videos and I am happy to say that I have the body instructions ready to share with you today.

I really enjoyed working on this project and mixing and matching fabrics to create the body of the doll.

I love all of the different styles you can design to make the doll uniquely your own!

This project is a bit more time consuming than others and does require a bit of patience. It is probably a 5/10 in difficulty just for the amount of time needed to hand stitch the hair and for the exactness of seam allowance that is needed. When sewing plush projects, a small error in your seam allowance can make a big difference in the appearance of your doll. You also need to be comfortable slip stitching and working with small curves.

The doll measures between 14 and 14.5 inches tall when finished.

Rag Doll Pattern by learncreatesew

Rag Doll Hair Tutorial COMING SOON!

One-Tie Face Mask & Case in Action

April 26, 202017 Comments

I had a few requests for shots of the face mask in action! Here you go 🙂

I have to say, while I have face masks with elastic and with ties, I definitely prefer the ties! I don’t know about you, but I don’t like the feel of the elastic rubbing against my ears. While sewing the ties is not my favorite thing to do, I do appreciate the comfort it brings verses the elastic. The tie in the back also allows me to adjust the fit to a snugness that works for me. I also find it much more comfortable without interfacing.

I made my ear ties, 0.5 inch longer than the elastic suggestion in the pattern, but you can adjust to your preference.

I was worried originally that the mask might slide a lot with just the single tie, but I haven’t found it a problem. I have even worn it out for walks on windy days with no issues! And when you’re not using the mask for a moment, it hangs easily around your neck.

Here is my face mask pattern!

Face Mask Family Sizes by learncreatesew

I also use my little case for my mask absolutely all the time! First, I loved the cat print shown above. Second, I have one attached to my purse, so I literally don’t leave home without it.

I highly recommend the little case for convenience. Here is the free pattern.

Face Mask Key Chain Pouch Web Pattern by Learncreatesew

Here is the face mask tutorial!

…and the case overview. Visit my Youtube Channel or the keychain page under free patterns and service projects if you need more details.

Rag Doll Project Testing

April 26, 2020April 26, 2020Leave a comment

A rag doll was one of the project brainstorm ideas that I posted in my sketchbook recently. The project is a bit time consuming, so I opted to do other projects first.

However, this weekend I was quite excited to have the time to work on the project.

First, I drafted two pattern options. After testing them both I made some adjustments to my favorite version and found a shape I was pretty happy with!

Next came the daunting task of tackling the hair! I do have to say that it took longer than expected to hand stitch all that yarn! Thank goodness for comfy couches and Netflix. It definitely helps the process.

Once I was happy with my rough drafts, I went on to test the project!

I have to say, I was quite happy with the results! I love all of the hair! It took about a half skein of yarn, but I love how puffy it is!

I hope to have instructions and patterns ready to share soon!

Casual Flannel Skirt with Pockets

April 22, 2020April 22, 20202 Comments

This was a really fun project to make! It took me a few tries to perfect the sizing, but I was very pleased with the results.

When I designed this project I was looking for something to lounge around in, especially in the summer.

Pockets are a must for me, so that was the first thing I decided the skirt needed.

Next, slits were a priority for ease of movement. I also ended up choosing an elastic waistband for simplicity. The elastic doesn’t have a casing, but is exposed on the inside of the skirt.

Then, I looked at my huge stack of flannel. That definitely needed some attention. You don’t necessarily need to make the skirt using flannel fabric, but that is the only fabric I have tested the project on.

The skirt is designed to sit at your natural waist, where you bend, and is very comfortable. Here is my casual skirt in action as I tried to take photos. My dogs decided it was a great time to be helpful. Unfortunately, their photography skills are lacking. Luckily, they make up for the lack in cuteness.