Pattern/Technique: Used dimensions (5” x 8”) from https://www.instructables.com/how-to-sew-a-needle-book/ then trimmed edges after quilting. Added an interior pocket by doubling muslin, sewing a double fold narrow hem, then trimming to be the same length as the quilted “cover”. Secured it by stitching a 1/8” seam around the edge of the pocket. Inserted the scrap linen “pages” by sewing a straight line of stitches down the middle of the book. For the closure I sewed a button on the front cover + a loop using 1/4” twill tape on the back cover, which I secured with a long bartack before trimming the excess twill tape.
Materials: Scrap linen for interior and “pages”, scrap cotton muslin for exterior and pocket, scrap quilt batting. Used 1/2” cotton twill tape for binding
New skills: Sewing buttons
Lessons: Always use the handwheel to test that the needle is properly aligned with the holes in a button. While sewing the button on, hold the upper thread to ensure that the back stays clean and tidy. After cutting the thread, tie the back threads to help secure the button.
I’ve learned that linen stretches out, so I used a light coating of spray starch to stiffen it. There was still a bit of stretching while quilting the cover, but it wasn’t too bad.
What I'd do differently: I need to read some tutorials on how to use twill tape as a binding. I ended up with a serviceable finish but it could have been cleaner.
Care: Hand wash, lay flat to dry.
