document case / laptop bag!

So, this is what my dad is getting for Christmas this year. It's a computer envelope/sleeve thingy, that can also be used as a document case.

It's made of plain black cotton fabric, and scrap fabric of various patterns for the lining and for the pocket on the front. Other details include bias tape for the edges, and strips hook-and-loop fastener for simple closing and opening.

Maybe not too fancy, but it does its job, and it suits a laptop perfectly.

I used a pattern from Living Creatively to guide me through making this thing. They have some pretty easy to follow patterns/tutorials, so I recommend everyone to take a look at their stuff. It's especially nice for beginners, as we tend to need step-by-step instructions with pictures of each step. (I know it's been very helpful for me!)

Actually, I think I shall make one of these for myself, too. Using different fabrics, of course. I am getting excited already!

Beginner sewing projects!

Beginner sewing projects turned out to be hard to find for me when I first started looking. Everything was either too complicated, or it cost a lot of money to buy it. I wanted something free, that was easy and fun. (Yeah, I'm pretty hard to please, I know!)

But, now I have been searching for a while, and I have gathered up a nice amount of links to fun, free and easy sewing projects, and I thought I'd share!

• tinyhappy's shoulderbag -my first ever project! It was so much fun, and so easy!
• u-handblog - scroll down, and on the righthand side you can see a list of tutorials. They are made up with pictures of each step, and the results are awesome!
• mackville road bag tutorial - I haven't tried this one, but it looks really cool!
• Anna Maria Horner - scroll down to you see the "Make This With Me" list on the lefthand side. I really like her instructions for the pillowcase dress!
• Casette Tape Wallet tut - this is so cool, and I am gonna try it as soon as I get my hands on a casette!

Well, those are my favourite beginner projects. What's yours? It can be so daunting to start sewing, especially if there's no one there to show you how, but with these easy to follow, wonderful tutorials, everyone can sew the prettiest things!
Good luck with these projects everyone!