As spring approaches, organization is at the top of my list. I don’t know about you, but I’m always leaving my laptop in the other room and/or forgetting where it is altogether. I’m hoping that with this speedy project, you too can solve some organizational tasks. Whether it keeps a journal and coloring pencils in one place or reminds us to take a much needed break, this reading nook organizer is speedy, eco-friendly and durable. The best part? Anyone can make it!
Janome Supplies Required
Janome Continental M17 with Accufeed walking foot
Fabric and Notions Required
Coordinating Polyester thread 50wt
organ needle 16 (for cork) or Janome red tip needle
Velcro 1.5” wide (I used 18” of velcro hook and 5” of velcro loop)
Cork fabric, 1 – 13”x11”, 1 – 9”x11” (remnants optional)
vinyl (optional)
Ruler
Rotary cutter
Cutting mat
Curved safety pins (optional)
Instructions
1. Sewing with cork is easier than ever; it doesn’t unravel like traditional textiles. You will need two panels of cork measuring 13”x11” (solid color background) and 1 – 9”x11” (solid or patchwork style) to create the sleeve. Hint:You can use cork remnants to piece the smaller panel and add a small piece of vinyl for a clear view window. Also, give yourself a bigger seam allowance to open seams and top-stitch them. This will strengthen the seams to hold more weight.
2. Piece cork fabric remnants for the font panel or choose a solid piece. I made this panel larger than I needed to, to maximize scraps. Trim if needed
3. Place the front panel right side up on the right side of background cork fabric to form an envelope. I used oversized clips to hold in place.
4. Double check that the organizer fits within the space you are planning before stitching it all down. I built mine to fit between the arm rest with plenty of space off the floor. It will provide easy access to my laptop, magazines and/or art supplies
Hint: To make it even simpler, choose a longer piece of cork fabric, fold towards the front, right sides together, and stitch on both sides for an instant envelope.
5. Stitch the front panel to the background piece to form a pocket using ¼” seam allowance or larger, add velcro strips. Hint: The rough side of the velcro is called the hook (scratchy side) and the soft side is called the loop (soft side).
6. Stitch 1.5”x2.5” velcro hooks to both edges on the wrong side of the background cork fabric. Match thread color to the right side of background cork fabric.
7. Place velcro loops on the right side of background fabric, ¼” from either side and 1” down from the top edge, stitch down. Backstitch to secure well. Hint: Velcro loops will be longer than the velcro hooks because they need to wrap around the armrest.
8. Reading nook cork organizer is ready to use!
9. I’m a big believer in keeping everything in its place and finding easy storage solutions that free up space, to enjoy a clutter-free home. Keeping my coffee table organized is one of my goals and this reading-nook organizer accomplished that for my family and I. It’s big enough to hold my laptop and magazines. It is my hope that you too, find some value in this project’s usefulness and aesthetic. Share your progress!
Happy Spring!
Maday
www.sustainabletextiledesign.com
IG – sustainabletextiledesign