Do you have a needle book in your sewing kit?
I didn’t realize I needed one until my friend Amy made one for me and it was the best thing ever.
Before having one, I used to keep my needles on a piece of scrap felt that was kicking around loose in my sewing bag.
Wondering if I ever pricked myself on the exposed needles?
You bet I did!
Super annoying to be rummaging through your kit only to jab yourself – bleurgh.
Amy’s adorable and practical needle book has saved my hands ever since.
So, when I was planning on making myself a new travel sewing kit to leave up at the cottage, I knew I had to make a new one.
What I love about making your own improv quilted needle book is that you can bring your own quilty flair to the table.
*This post contains affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, if you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a commission.
STORY BEHIND THE IMPROV QUILTED NEEDLE BOOK
Have you ever noticed that projects that have been languishing or just an idea in your head seem to kick off riiiiiight before you need them?
A case in point is this adorable improv needle book that I whipped up last Sunday.
It took me less than an hour to make – start to finish.
Granted, I got a head start by using my improv quilt trimmings from the improv quilt backing I made for this baby Flight Plan quilt.
But even without those pieces already stitched, it’s still a quick sewing project.
This is great because I was leaving on summer vacation in less than a week and I needed one for my sewing kit and fast!
FABRIC SCRAPS FOR THE WIN
Trimmings and fabric scraps are the perfect use for small sewing projects like this needle book.
I had to join a few pieces to make everything fit the measurements, but I didn’t cut into any new yardage for this project – hooray!
Everything featured is either upcycled or extras that we’re already on hand.
This is why it’s a perfect project for a Sunday. You don’t need to leave the house to create a pretty and practical sewing notion. It’s super satisfying to make. Plus, it uses up your scraps.
It’s a win-win-win!
I followed Amy’s tutorial for the general piecing instructions but decided to go with my own modern improv patchwork for the outside and lining. I love the delicate touch the Sweetheart collection brings to this project.
The button is a spare from one of my favourite coral blouses from my corporate life.
The hair elastic happens to be from a pack my hubz picked-up for himself to tame his beard. He wanted small black hair ties and the only ones he could find were part of a multi-coloured pack. The size was a perfect fit!
MATERIALS NEEDED TO MAKE YOUR OWN IMPROV QUILTED NEEDLEBOOK
Here’s an overview of the materials and notions you’ll need to make your own improv quilted needlebook:
- Fabric scraps
- Batting scraps
- Felt scraps*
- Needle book tutorial
- Sewing Machine*
- Sewing machine needle*
- Hand sewing needle*
- Thread for piecing*
- Thread for hand sewing*
- Sit ‘n Sew Pincushion
- Scissors*
- Snips*
- Rotary cutter*
- Cutting mat*
- Iron
- Button
- Hair elastic*
Who knew sustainable quilting could look this good – ha!
Having a new improv quilted needle book in my sewing kit has me excited to get stitching. Funny how such a small thing can get you fired up to get creating.
This would make a lovely gift for all your sewing and quilting friends. It will make them feel extra special, just like I feel extra special every time I reach for the needle book Amy made me 😊
Give the gift of handmade while also making a dent in your fabric stash by making your own improv quilted needlebook!
For more quilty inspiration, check out:
- Top 10 Quilting Tools to get Started Quilting
- Sew Organized with the Sit ‘n Sew Pincushion
- Ultimate Quilting Thread Storage Solutions
- What’s Inside my Travel Sewing Bag
Happy quilting!
xo
Shannon
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