making // the pocket party pouch from michael ann made

A few weeks ago I saw that Michael Ann from Michael Ann Made was working on a new pattern, and it looked like something I would like to make and then actually use. So you can imagine how excited I was when she asked me if I would like to try out the Pocket Party Pouch pattern for myself!

I was a little intimidated to tell you the truth. This pattern uses bias tape (which I've never worked with before), and it involves sewing through a lot of layers (which I've struggled with in the past). But I read through the instructions and guess what? I did it! In fact, I did it twice!

Actually, this is a little trick I've been using: When making something totally new, make two at the same time. The first is a practice project, and the second is the good one. I do step one for both, then step two, and so on. At the end I have one okay project, and one great one!



This is my great one!

The Pocket Party Pouch comes in three sizes (all are in the PDF pattern). I made the medium pouch, which has two pockets inside. Since it's star month around here, I thought star fabric would be a good choice. Plus I'm really into navy right now, and this was perfect.

I hand stitched the binding using my favorite running stitch method. I LOVE how it came out, but I tell ya...it was work to get the needle through in the extra thick places. Still, entirely worth it.



The "practice" pouch is a little different. You might spot that it only has one pocket inside. I misunderstood the instructions to start, and thought this was how it was supposed to be. I figured it out before I put it all together, but decided to try it with my original thought.



On this one I machine sewed the binding, and as you can see, my precision sewing leaves something to be desired. Blerg.

It was after struggling to get this right that I decided to hand stitch on the second one. Although, I'm guessing that if I had used teal thread my stitching would bother me less. Live and learn.



The second pocket on this is placed on the back of the pouch. And I love it here for two reasons. 1) It's good for things you need stowed, but quickly accessible (for example, a transportation card). 2) With directional fabric, it allows you to have the print right side up on the back of the pouch.



So here's the scoop: This was a super fun project, and I'll be making more Pocket Party Pouches.

It was easy enough for me to work through without needing to look up any techniques online. But it was really satisfying to see the completed pouch with pretty binding and a smart-looking snap.

Bonus? The Pocket Party Pouch pattern is on sale this weekend for 25% off! Thanks Michael Ann!