Grandma's Got a Sewing Machine: Notebook Pen Holders: I've Wanted to Make These for a Long Time!

I've wanted to make notebook pen holders for a long time, and this week with frigid temperatures outside and 6 inches of snow on the ground, I tackled the project.

First, I watched a few Youtube videos and took notes. Then I combined the notes, customizing the end project to fit my vision.

Here's what I did ...

Cut: (These measurements are for an 8-inch notebook. For a different size notebook, measure the length and substitute it wherever 8 inches are called for in these instructions.)

2 pieces of fabric 2 3/4 inches x 8 inches

2 pieces of lightweight fusible interfacing 2 3/4 inches x 8 inches

1 contrasting piece of fabric 2 3/4 x 10 inches (For a different size notebook, add 2 inches to the measured length of your notebook.)

1 piece of lightweight fusible interfacing 2 3/4 inches x 10 (For a different size notebook, add 2 inches to the measured length of your notebook.)

Iron the interfacing on to each piece of fabric, fold the 10-inch piece in half lengthwise and press. Top stitch 1/8 inch from top of fold on folded piece.

Place pocket on top of one of the 8-inch pieces, aligning the bottom of both pieces of fabric. If you want compartments, stitch down the middle of the pocket piece. As you can see, I wanted compartments. (Do not stitch across the fold again!)

Cut 1 piece of elastic 8 inches long and place it pretty side down on top of pen holder and stitch across both ends of elastic.

Place remaining 8-inch piece of fabric with right sides together on top of piece with pocket.

Stitch 1/4 inch around leaving an opening for turning. I also trimmed the seams to 1/8 inch to reduce bulk in finished product. Clip corners, turn and press being careful not to let the iron touch the elastic.