Sunday Sewing Pattern Reviews - iSew's Coupon Organizer

This week I'm reviewing iSew's Coupon Organizer pattern. My best friend is a coupon queen, and I know with the extreme coupon TV show lots more people are getting in to deals. I used the binder method before I had kids, but now the idea of lugging that beast around in addition to my kiddlets makes me break out in hives. I thought this would be lovely to have instead.

There are some aspects I really love, but I'm not thrilled with my first one. It's possible I was not as precise as needed and I'm going to give it one more shot.

Here is my end result...

Description of pattern: "I searched around for a completely handmade coupon organizer on Etsy and didn't find one, so I made my own. Now you can make your own too."

Level of Difficulty: iSew labels it for intermediate and I heartily agree. Measurements need to be very precise, there is both machine and hand binding, and optional quilting of the main body. I do think that advanced beginner quilters would be able to do this pattern without too much

trouble.

Fabric Recommendations: I used 3 high quality cotton fabrics and was very pleased. You may wish to experiment with some of the heavy weight home decorating fabrics as well.

Overall Design: I love the quilting and multiple use of fabrics. I love that it is compact and easier to use with kids in tow. I'm not thrilled with how much gap there is at the bottom of the dividers. Again, this could be because I was not as precise as needed. I'm going to make a second one to try it one more time. With these more advanced patterns it is a good idea to make a muslin, but I jumped in without looking.

Instructions: Very clear, lots of photos, and I didn't find any grammatical or detail errors.

Pattern Pieces: This is a PDF (my personal preference) so you'll be printing them out. Self explanatory and shouldn't cause you any trouble.

Modifications & Tips: Don't make this one in the wee hours of the morning when you're tired and trying to get it done before the kiddos wake up ;o) I think that's where I had some trouble. Close enough stitching is not going to work with this one.

iSew also recommends finishing the binding by machine, but I disagree. Hand stitching this small of an item won't take you much time and will give you a much cleaner appearance. After all that hard work, don't let it look sloppy by rushing the end.

Conclusion: This was one of the only coupon organizer patterns out there. It is very tailored and allows for a fair amount of personal creativity with the quilting and multiple fabrics. I would recommend it for someone that is very confident in their sewing abilities or is looking for a challenge.

**iSew did not compensate me for this review in any form. Unfortunately I don't have a discount to give readers this week for their shop. I do recommend checking it out though!

Do you have a pattern you would like me to review? Are you a pattern writer? Please comment on any pattern suggestions - always looking for more!

Next week I will be reviewing an adorable baby ruffled romper - perfect for summer..

Results for WoW #15 - Details for #16..

I apologize for the photos, they were done in the wee hours this morning. I will try to take some fabulous pics this afternoon while the kiddos nap! So for this week's WoW I was inspired by The Beatles' song "In My Life". The lyrics have always resonated with me, the idea that yes I had a life before you but I love my time with you most of all.

For this project, I free motioned a portion of the lyrics. I did it in a light blue thread that matches the fabric. I wanted the words to be there, but not overwhelm the canvas. I know it's hard to read with these photos, here are the lyrics I stitched:

"Though I know I'll never lose affection for people and things that went before. I know I'll often stop and think about them. In my life, I love you more"

I pulled it together with a free motioned applique of a home. Because that's is what love is all about, making a home with those you love.

Music can be so inspirational. If you haven't made something inspired by lyrics, I recommend you try to one. Once you start thinking about songs that are significant for you, I bet you'll have loads of ideas!

WoW Challenge #16 - Pattern Mix Up

This one is inspired by Isabelle. She loves to mix floral with strips with polka dots! I sometimes cringe when she decides on what her outfit for the day will be, but she works it and it always looks adorable. So reach outside your comfort zone and play with different patterns.

This doesn't have to be just fabric, you can do it with paper, digital images, etc..

Want to join in on the WoW fun?

Add your link below by midnight of next Tuesday.

Want more WoW details, click on over...