Grandma's Needlebook Tutorial

These little needlebook cases are headed for goodie bags for Tuesdays Sewing Bee. They are quick and easy to make so I thought I'd share them in the form of a tutorial with you. They would make great stocking stuffers, shower game prizes, hostess gifts, gift basket addition, etc. They're quickly made with things you most likely have on hand. Plus, I will share tips on how to keep the costs down even further. I made these from 1930s reproduction apron prints simply because I had them on hand, they fit the table theme for the party and because I just adore them. But you could theme your fabrics and applique motif to fit your intended recipient.

Grandma's Needlebook Tutorial



Step One - Create the needlebook's base by cutting cardstock or manilla file folders into the desired size. FRUGAL and TIME-SAVING TIP - I buy notecards at thrift stores for next to nothing and keep them on hand for crafting. I use fusible webbing to create custom cards by simply fusing on scrapbook paper, vintage sheet music and vintage graphics. Or I use them for cutting tags, making bookmarks, etc. They were perfect for these needlebooks. I didn't even have to score the fold!



Step Two - Cut fusible webbing to fit needlebook. You will need two sheets, one for the inside and one for the outside. TIME-SAVING TIP - If you're making more than one needlebook, fold your fusible webbing into as many layers as quantity needed and cut them all at once with a rotary cutter and ruler.



Step Three - Layer webbing onto card and fuse. TIME-SAVING TIP - You can fuse both front and back at once. The heat is sufficent to secure the back side at the same time as the front. Peel off paper.



Step Four - Cut two different fabrics the same size as needlebook, one for the inside and one for the outside. Then layer pieces like this: Fabric for inside of needlebook (wrong side up), card, fabric for outside of needlebook (wrong side down). Slip in a length of ribbon on each end between fabrics and card to provide the closure for the needlebook. Fuse all at once being sure all edges are even. Trim if needed.







Step Five - Trace your chosen applique motif onto fusible webbing. Cut roughly around applique shapes. Fuse to fabrics. Cut out on lines. Arrange on card front. Fuse into place.



Step Six - Cut felt to fit inside of needlebook leaving a bit of a margin. Spray felt with spray craft adhesive. Press into place on inside of needlebook.



Step Seven - Embellish front of needlebook. FRUGAL TIP - Instead of buying tags at scrapbook stores where they come in small quantities and premium prices, I buy mine in the office supply section of Wal-Mart. They are less than a dollar for 200 count.



Step Eight - Tuck in a few pins and needles into felt. Tie shut and it's ready for gift-giving.