Nick's Perfect Pencil Case Project

Difficulty level Beginner
Time to Complete Evening
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Picture: Nick with Pencil Case
Picture: Nick's Pencil Case Project


Our talented sewing expert Nick shows you his technique for inserting a zip and demonstrates Bernina Zipper Foot #4 and Bernina ¼" Patchwork Foot with Guide #57.

With the new school year having just kicked off, this project is perfect and a great excuse to spend the day teaching your child or grandchild how to sew. The weather is (unfortunately) getting colder and rainier so while you're stuck inside why not get the little ones creating?!

These quick and easy cases are a gentle introduction to sewing zips and suited for pencils, pens and whatever else your little Einstein might need! Have fun choosing the perfect fabric combinations and add a splash of colour with a contrasting zip. Their pencil case will not only be completely unique but also something to be very proud of! No more clashing with classmates, standout from the crowd!


You will need:

  • Bernina sewing machine
  • Bernina Reverse Pattern Foot #1
  • Bernina Zipper Foot #4
  • Bernina ¼" Patchwork Foot (#37, #57 or #97)
  • Fat quarter of outer fabric
  • Fat quarter of lining fabric
  • 10" zip (though longer ones can be cut to size)
  • Thread
  • Pins
  • Binding clips (optional)
  • Pencil
  • Tape measure or ruler
  • Scissors
  • Point turner or something similar, e.g. a chopstick

The Bernina ¼" Patchwork Foot with Guide #57 and Patchwork Foot 9mm #97 are the Accessories of the Month available at a 15% discount!
*This offer includes the "D" dual feed versions*


This promotion will run from 8th October 2018 until 31st October 2018.

The outer edges of all the patchwork feet – #37, #57 and #97 – are exactly ¼" from the centre needle position. Along with providing precision for patchwork, these feet are great for when you need an accurate, consistent seam allowance, like when sewing the outer edges of your pencil case. Remember, all Bernina patchwork feet are straight-stitch only and should only be used with centre needle position.

All three feet have a "D" version for use with machines equipped with the dual feed function.


Click here to visit the Bernina online shop.

Find out more about Patchwork Foot with Guide #57 by clicking here.
Find out more about Patchwork Foot 9mm #97 by clicking here.
 

Instructions

Picture: Nick's Pencil Case Project

Stage 1

Begin by cutting two 10” x 6.5” pieces from the outer fabric and two 10” x 6.5” pieces from the lining fabric.

Picture: Nick's Pencil Case Project

Stage 2

Place a lining piece right side up in front of you and align the zip, puller side up, along the edge. Place an outer piece, right side down, on top of the zip and pin in place.

Picture: Nick's Pencil Case Project

Picture: Nick's Pencil Case Project

Picture: Nick's Pencil Case Project

Stage 3

Attach foot #4 to your machine and sew the left side of the zip. You may find it easiest to sew approximately ¾ of the zip, stop with the needle down, raise the presser foot, pull the zip past the foot and then continue to the end.

Picture: Nick's Pencil Case Project

Stage 4

Place the second lining piece right side up in front of you and then place the sewn zipper and fabric piece on top, with the zipper facing upwards. Finally, place the second outer piece face down and pin in place.

Picture: Nick's Pencil Case Project

Picture: Nick's Pencil Case Project

Stage 5

Sew the right side of the zipper to the two fabric pieces and press the seams well.

Picture: Nick's Pencil Case Project

Picture: Nick's Pencil Case Project

Stage 6

Return to the machine and top stitch down each side of the zip.

Picture: Nick's Pencil Case Project

Stage 7

Remembering to unzip the zipper, place the lining pieces right sides together and the outer pieces right sides together, with the zip facing towards the lining. It’s helpful to use two binding clips to hold the top and bottom of the zip in place. Mark a 3” gap on the lining piece using a pencil before pinning the fabric together along the edge.

Picture: Nick's Pencil Case Project

Picture: Nick's Pencil Case Project

Picture: Nick's Pencil Case Project

Stage 8

Starting at one end of the 3” gap, attach your ¼” patchwork foot and sew around the edge of the pencil case using a ¼” seam, stopping once you reach the other end of the 3” gap. Take care when sewing over the zip and reduce your speed if necessary.

Picture: Nick's Pencil Case Project

Stage 9

Clip the corner of the case to reduce bulk once it’s turned out.

Picture: Nick's Pencil Case Project

Stage 10

Turn the case right side out using the gap left in the lining. Use a point turner or chopstick to push out and neaten the corners.

Picture: Nick's Pencil Case Project

Stage 11

Using a matching thread colour, top stitch the bottom edge of the lining to close the gap. Press well and place the lining in the case.

Picture: Nick's Pencil Case Project

Picture: Nick's Pencil Case Project

Stage 12

Your perfect pencil case is now finished!

Picture: Nick's Pencil Case Project

Keep all your favourite pens, pencils & crayons organised in your fresh, stylish and original pencil case!

Picture: Nick's Pencil Case Project

Is your kid the coolest in the classroom?

Too right!!

Make sure to check our website regularly as we will be putting out a brand new project, designed exclusively by a Bernina UK team member or Bernina guest contributor, EVERY MONTH!

It's nearly "that" time of year again...so this November our sewing expert Steph is bringing you a Christmassy project! Let's get into the festive spirit, create something special together and spread some cheer.

Ho-Ho-Ho! The Bernina UK Christmas project...coming soon!