Embroidered Pencil Case

I found some cotton chambray curtains at a thrift store and I thought they would be great to make a series of projects with sustainability in mind. I have been slowly upcycling them into various items, enjoying the challenge of giving this fabric a second life. One of my more recent projects is this pencil pouch, created using a pattern from from Stitch and Sew: Beautifully Embroider 31 Projects, by Aneela Hoey.  It is a fantastic book, full of charming projects and thoughtful handmade gift ideas - definitely a book I will be using again and again. I will be making this pouch again, but I plan to change the design to be slightly smaller and to include a vertical elastic strap to the back so I can attach it to my journal when I travel. Starting with a great idea like this one and customizing it to my specific use of it is one of my favorite parts about sewing.