Pen pal kit

I've been working on a couple pen pal kits, to be Christmas gifts for two special kiddos. I've been gradually collecting ideas and supplies for a couple months but hadn't found a suitable package for the kits. Until now.

This week I was inspired by a Michelle Patterns post, where she scaled down her Idea Pouch pattern to 75% for use as a sewing kit. Clever! I scaled it down a bit further, to 55%, so it would be just big enough to hold large post cards.

 

I used an Alexander Henry fabric I picked up at Joann's years ago, and a coordinating piece of Kona PFD that I dyed for the lining. This size pouch requires only a fat quarter each of lining and outer fabric.

In addition to scaling to 55%, I made a few changes to the original pattern:

1. Since I used directional fabric I pieced the outer back + flap (pattern piece D)  from two pieces so the mushrooms are right-side up on the back, and right-side up on the front flap (when closed).


2. I changed the placement of lines on the pencil pocket, dividing it into 3 sections: 1/2, 1/4 and 1/4


3. I omitted the top-stitching on the pleats - I felt at this size there just wasn't room.

Next time, I will trim the interfacing down by 1/4" on all sides to avoid bulky seam allowances. I might also add a pocket to the flap, like Michelle did in her post.



I need to gather a few more goodies. I think the finished kits will include:

• washable gluesticks


• washi tape


• crayons, small pens or washable markers


• stickers


• a small envelope, full of vintage stamps


• 4-bar and A2 envelopes and note cards


• postcards


• cheatsheet for postage, stationary and postcard sizes

If you're thinking of making your own pen pal kit, you might find these links useful:

• Official USPS post card sizes


• Standard stationary sizes, courtesy of Paper Source


• Vintage stamps sold at their original face value