Organized 31

Ideas from a Military Mom

Upcycled Skirt to Zipper Pouch

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Organized 31- Skirt Upcycled to zippered pouch
 
 
Back when I was doing all the sweater upcycling, Sweater Sleeve Easter Cups and Repurposed Sweater Valentine’s Pillow, I saw this skirt at the thrift shop.  I immediately fell in love with the pattern (maybe because it was January and yucky cold).
It was marked down for clearance. I used to feel badly buying clothing from the thrift store that someone could wear just to cut it up.
I’m not sure why it was marked down, the fabric is gorgeous. It doesn’t show in the pictures, but it’s a very fine woven pattern so the fabric is very smooth and crisp.
 
I’m sure you’re starting to doubt me because I’ve been trying several sewing projects recently, but I’m REALLY not a seamstress.  I had to take 15 minutes to figure out how to change to the zipper foot for this project (and the actual foot change takes about 4 seconds).  So, if I tell you that I could tackle this project twice, then anyone can do it.
I found this great tutorial at Noodlehead for sewing an open wide zippered pouch.  Her instructions are very clear and easy to follow really.
 
Noodlehead

 Skirt Upcycled to Pouch

 
It took me about 30 minutes to sew the first bag.  But that was probably because it’s the first time I’ve ever sewn a zipper! 
Organized 31- Skirt Upcycled to zippered pouch
 
I’m thrilled with the way the first one turned out.  My oldest teen daughter quickly claimed this one, so I’ll take that as proof of success.
 
I sat in the glow of the oldest teen daughter’s compliment for about 2 minutes until I realized I’d better make another one quick for my younger teen daughter! 
Organized 31- Skirt Upcycled to zippered pouch
 
20 minutes later, Whew, crisis averted!  My youngest daughter also grabbed up her bag and ran with it. 
 
And she didn’t even notice that somehow I sewed the tail of the zipper into the bag on the second one (can you tell on the back bag, top right side?)  Still not sure how it happened, but the bag works and looks just fine. 
 
So, not only did I learn how to sew a zipper into a pouch, but I earned a rating of  two happy teen daughters with this one.  That makes me a happy mama. 
 
More easy sewing projects from thrifted clothing:

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  1. Crystal says

    Genius!! They turned out so cute and pretty!! I’ve been looking for a little makeup bag for my purse but I either don’t want to spend the outrageous amount they are asking for one or I don’t like the pattern. This is an awesome idea!! Thanks so much!!

    Reply

  3. Cynthia Landrie says

    Honestly, you are the Queen of recycle! This bag is so cute! Here is my question – when do you find the time to do all of these wonderful crafts?

    Thank you for linking up to the In and Out of the Kitchen party! I am always excited to see what you bring!

    Cynthia at http://FeedingBig.com

    Reply

    • Susan@Organized31 says

      I know, I almost regret cutting the skirt up. But it wasn’t my size (or at least I keep telling myself that)

      Reply

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