I wanted to make a flex frame pouch for a long time but for some reason I thought it was not easy. But it turned out to be an easy and quick make. For exterior you can use one piece of fabric or a patchwork panel. I made a panel from 3/4 inch Liberty hexies and it was the most time consuming part. Actual sewing took only 15 min.
I bought my frame on Etsy and it measures 15 cm /5 3/4 inch/, but various sizes are available. It is very important to be careful with the tiny pin, otherwise if you loose it you will not be able to finish the pouch construction.
What you need
- flex frame
- 2 pieces of exterior fabric cut to the size /1 inch longer than the length of your flex frame/
- 2 pieces of batting (the same size as exterior)
- 2 pieces for lining (the same size as exterior)
- 4 pieces for the sleeve for the frame /1/2 inch longer than the length of your frame/, you can use fusible interfacing for the 2 pieces.
Making the sleeve
Place two sleeve pieces (1 with fusible interfacing and 1 without interfacing) right sides together and sew on short sides with 1/4 seam allowance. Turn the right side out and if you used
the fusible interfacing make sure that side is up. Then fold the sleeve in half lengthwise and iron.
Place the sleeve on top the exterior piece and baste with long stitch (I used the length 4,0) 1/8 inch from the top.
Place the lining piece and the exterior right sides together and sew with 1/4 inch seam allowance. Make the second panel.
Turn the panel right side up with the sleeve facing to the right but the seam facing towards the lining.
Place the other panel on top and put the clips to hold both pieces together. If you would like rounded corners on your pouch, then mark and cut the excess of fabric.
Start sewing around the pouch on the lining and leave a 3 inch gap in the lining unsewn (between 2 clips on the bottom of the lining). When the needle comes to the point where the sleeve is, reach inside the pouch and move the sleeve from the way.
Turn the pouch right side out and sew the opening in the lining closed by machine or hand.
Now take the frame and pull it through the sleeve. You will have one side closed and one open.
On the open side - close the frame and insert the tiny pin.
You are ready!
I made this flex frame pouch for my glasses, but with smaller size you can make a coin purse or a phone case.
I would like to see your creations, so please, tag me @nordiccrafter on Instagram.
Happy Sewing!