Monday, August 05, 2013

Zakka Wallet Organizer

I'd mark off my students' work if they didn't cite a reference, so many apologies to everyone (especially Masko Jefferson and Rashida Coleman-Hale!) for neglecting to include the pattern source for the wallet I posted with my "It's a Cinch" bag.   The pattern is from the book, Zakka Style, which I borrowed from my library (and renewed several times :)
Since making the wallet, I've discovered an errata page that accompanies this pattern, but I had to work it out the hard way...so this is what I did: For the undivided pockets on the left (in the above image), I cut three pieces of fabric in the following sizes: coral; 5 3/4" x 8", pink; 4 3/4" x 8" and patterned; 3 3/4" x 8 inches.  All pockets were hemmed 3/4" (as directed in the book, which was apparently changed in the errata).  For the pocket placement (for both sides), I sewed them 1" from the center, not 3/4" as directed in the text, and 3/4" from the previous pocket.
The directions were a little vague for the step of binding the edges at the point by the zipper (with the pull tab).  But after a while of fiddling, I realized that if you fold the zipper end toward the inside of the wallet, the binding can continue, uninterrupted around the edge (see photo, above):
Finally, when I do it again (and I will--seriously, these are relatively quick to whip-up!), I plan to sew along the upper edge of the zipper pocket (see photo, above), straight through the lining, before attaching it to the "inside" of the wallet (this will make sense when you sew it for yourself).   This would make one smaller pocket (where my phone is), instead of a giant pocket, which goes around to the backside of the wallet.  No one wants to hunt that much for wandering coins!
This organizer wallet is really pretty awesome: fits everything I need, but without so many card slots that I become a pack-rat!  I have a notebook in there, but it would easily fit a small date book or passport when traveling.  And it looks pretty sleek and stylish, too.


11 comments:

  1. This is SO lovely and I haven't gotten a chance to comment on your bag yet but it's amazing. Both look so pro and beautiful! I want them!!

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  2. I didn't get a chance to comment yesterday, but both your bag and your wallet are fantastic. Thanks so much for all the information you've given too!

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    1. Thank you, Gail! Even with the small issues I had, the wallet came together quickly and is seriously one of the most useful things I've made!

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  3. Awesome job, I love the color and pattern combinations. Hey, don't forget to add the wallet info to the earlier post too so people searching on the web don't miss out. Love your wardrobe makes too.

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  4. Lovely wallet! I'm tempted to make one for myself :)

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  5. Thanks for the reference! I should have known this was Japanese-inspired since it's so awesome. You must have some great library. We don't have this in the NYC public library. Boo.

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  6. Awesome! I love checking out sewing books at the library... over... and over ;) It's especially nice for bags and such where you may not have pattern pieces - I will be looking this book up! :)

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  7. Thanks Nicole, I just placed a hold at our library. I'm 9th in line though, so maybe I'll get it before Xmas!
    I'm so sad you aren't continuing in the SMSSB :(. Overall, your skills and creativity I felt were over the top. I know its hard to make such decisions among you awesome ladies, but gosh, my jaw dropped not to see your name. Onto bigger and better things for you I'm sure :). Thanks for all the sewing inspiration over the past few weeks.
    Michelle

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  8. Here's a good link to the errata info: http://www.ct-publishing.com/errata/10824.cfm
    It took quite a while for me to find it and there are quite a few fixes from what I have in my book!

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