Monday, June 6, 2011

Coupon Clutch and Etsy Pattern!


Has anyone seen "Extreme Couponing?"  I'm not a huge fan of hoarding, but that show gave my husband and I the idea to collect coupons in order to make eating organic possible.  But how do you organize them? Well, I looked on the interwebs for a tutorial, and I found a couple projects that looked similar to this:
The catch?  Either there was no tutorial, or you had to buy an expensive pattern.  I understand that many bloggers sell patterns to help support their families and whatnot, but I am already on a tight budget (hence the couponing).  So what did I do?  I made one up! For cheap!  And I am posting the tutorial for it!  And I am offering the pattern on my Etsy for only $2.00!  

Onto the tutorial!  I used bright white thread and contrasting colors so you can see each step more clearly.  First, cut the pattern pieces.

I started sewing with the dividers and the accordian sides.  Stack them with the two fabric pieces on bottom (right sides together), and the interfacing on top (for the dividers).  Then stitch up the long sides.
Then, turn them inside-out and press flat to open up the seam.  
Next, use a straight edge help turn out the seams and press. Then topstitch the top and bottom to seal it in place.  This also helps keep the interfacing stable.




Next, it's time to sew the cover.  Stack the fabric the same way you did the dividers: right sides together, interfacing on top.  Then stitch the scalloped edges on top and bottom to make the seams.  The curves and turns are a little tricky, but if you go slow you will be fine.

Then, turn it inside out, and push out and press the seams.  You may need some kind of tool to pop out the corners and curves. Then-you guessed it-topstitch.
ASSEMBLY:
First, I attached the dividers to the accordian.  Fold the accordian piece in half, and slide the divider all the way up into the crease.  Then stitch it down about 1/4 inch from the edge--just enough to catch all the layers.
Now, fold the fabric back, and a little farther down, make another fold (how many folds you make and how far to space them will depend on how many dividers you choose to have-on my pattern I have drawn the lines to make 8 dividers--it's a pretty tight fit).  Again, stick the divider into the crease and stitch it down.
Once you have sewn in all your dividers on one accordian side, then repeat with the other.  It may be slightly trickier on the other side, but just start in the middle and you will be fine.  I was able to eyeball the spacing just fine.
Now, you should have some extra fabric at the ends of your accordian sides.  This is what you will use to attach your dividers to the cover.  Decide where you would like the dividers to be inside your clutch, leaving plenty of room for the file to expand (The pattern also has a rough guide to where the folds should be in the cover).  Then pin it down and bast it close to the edge. 
Once you've done this to the front of your cover, roll the cover up around to the other side of the dividers, and attach the other side of the dividers to the back side of the clutch.
Congratulations!  You are almost there!  Now you just have to do a little finishing and you are done!
Take a strip of bias tape and pin it along the side of the clutch, covering the basting work you just did.  
Topstitch it down, then repeat.  Then add a snap or button closure to the front and you are done!  Take a look!
oh snap!

a little peek-a-boo of the dividers
Closed:

Open:


Now, the part you have been waiting for:  How do you get the pattern?  It's simple: just visit my Etsy and put in an order!  I will email it to you as soon as I can!



Check out our link parties link to see where I am linking up this week.
Also linking up to:

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80 comments:

Amanda said...

Oh I think your my favourite person of the day! I was looking at these just yesterday and found one but cost almost $30 without shipping, eeekkk! I had decided to try my own pattern which if you know anything about me is just about the funniest thing I've said all year!

Could I get a copy of the pattern please, will definitely link back once I get it done!

Regina said...

I would love this pattern please. I will definitely post pictures and send people your way. It just might be in a week or two. We just moved and my sewing space is all in boxes *weep, weep*

Jan said...

I love it. I would love a copy of the pattern. I will of course link back, pin it, and follow you

myrt said...

I would love a copy of the pattern! If I actually finish it I'll definitely send pictures. It may take some time; the last day of preschool was yesterday.

Erin said...

I would also love a copy of this pattern. It is so hard to fine a coupon organizer that holds everything that doesn't cost more than I'm willing to pay. Thanks for making yours available!

Katie said...

Where were you two years ago?! haha I searched all over for a pattern like this and finally gave up. I guess now is my chance to make one. THANK YOU!

Stephanie said...

So cute! Great job :)

Tanya said...

I would love this pattern. Just in case my email is tanyapoohbear at gmail dot com

Christy said...

This is super cute! I love having Cute things to carry my coupons in. :)

www.christyscuties.blogspot.com

Tez said...

I would love the pattern, I'm always looking for a great organizational tool!

Beth said...

What a cute way to customize your organization :). Thanks for linking up!

jackie koudry said...

I would love to have this pattern. What a great idea.

koudryjatyahoodotcom

Shannon Brennan said...

Very cute! You'll be couponing in style!

Tess said...

I would love to have this pattern!

Stacy said...

Yes this is awesome! I'm taking my first coupon class next month :)

missymooboutique@yahoo.com

Bonnie said...

I would love to have this pattern. It is so cute. My email is mof5blessings@yahoo.com

Desi said...

This would be awesome for my quick runs to the store, so I wouldn't to lug my huge coupon binder with me. I would love the pattern for it.

Nooly said...

I would love this pattern! I have been looking for something likethis for ages!!!!
yaelandkatz(at)gmail(dot)com

thank you!!!!

Emily said...

It would be lovely if you wouldn't mind passing on your pattern. It's just what I've been looking for! I love the feminine touches you added like the scallops or the fancy snap. So fun! sorainima (at) gmail (dot) com

Anonymous said...

I am new to couponing, and have also been looking for something like this. Most that I have found....look "old lady-ish"! I'm a new(er) mom and want to make the best of my budget! I would love it if you would share this pattern with me! Thanks
rsopiarz@hotmail.com

aStarToSteerHerBy said...

Tess, I would love to give you the pattern! I just need an email address!

Anonymous said...

What a darling little clutch! I'd love the pattern - thanks for sharing!
camillegregersen@hotmail.com

Anonymous said...

I would love this pattern please!!!

thecubanator@gmail.com

I promise that I will send you pictures of it once it's done and link to your blog!

Thank you for a free no strings attached (no commenting on twitter/facebook no random.org)
pattern!!!!!!

~Amanda

sarahkat said...

I'd love a copy of this pattern. I've been trying to figure one out myself, but this one looks much better!

Beth said...

I'd love to give this a whirl. :)

aStarToSteerHerBy said...

Sarahkat and Beth I need your email addresses so I can send you the pattern!!! Or adjust your blogger profile settings to show your email! Thanks!

Anonymous said...

This is perfect. I was just about to buy a pattern on Etsy, when I saw your link on One Pretty Thing.I'd love to have this pattern please.
My email is mysticwoods@hotmail.com
Thank you

Anonymous said...

I love this! So cute! I would like a copy of this pattern. You can send it to mscris0004@hotmail.com

Seeker of the Narrow Gate said...

I would really like a pattern! I think it is so cute... I just started sewing and couponing. I don't know if I have the skills to make this yet - but I would like to try! kacjunk@verizon.net

Jess said...

I have been looking for a pattern like this! I would love one!
lebaronjess@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

You have great timing. I was just looking for a pattern for a coupon clutch. I would love the pattern because I will use it soon - and link to you. Thanks!

Andrea
www.addicted2tutes.blogspot.com

KreativChaotische ZwillingeFrau said...

Oh what a great coupon clutch. I found you over oneprettything.
Please send me a copy from the pattern to

starlet1606(at)googlemail(dot)com

Thanks a lot too for this great tut.

Greats from germany
Marion

My blog: http://moellerchens.blogspot.com/

Texana said...

I have been thinking about how to make a coupon holder and I found you today on One Pretty Thing! I would love to have the pattern! Thank you so much. Gonna check out what other fabulous posts you have on your blog!

Texana said...

Sorry 'bout that...sometimes my google account leaves the right addy, sometimes it leaves my now defunct blog...

you can e-mail me at pat.b.ferguson@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

I would love a copy of your pattern. Thank you for sharing.
sweethome@windstream.net

Anonymous said...

Love this project would love to have the pattern. horsemomma08@yahoo.com blessings & thanks
JoJo

Rosa said...

This is very nice,I`d love a copy of your pattern.Thanks so much.


moramargaritaster@gmai.com

scaruso08@hotmail.com said...

So cute! I would love the pattern please! I don't blog, but if I ever do I will link back to you! :) Will post pics when it's done! Thanks so much!

Unknown said...

Hello!! would LOVE to have this pattern!! just bumped into your blog but I'll be sure to follow you and send you shots (not too may, I promise!) of the results when I manage to sew it!!
Clelia from Italy
clelia27@libero.it

Cheryl said...

Very cute! would love to have the pattern sent to me also! thanks! Cheryl cruetten1@cox.net

Unknown said...

I would like to have a copy of your instructions for the coupon clutch. It is so cute and would be so handy. thank you so much for sharing your ideas with us.
cherryscoupons (at) gmail (dot) com

Jennifer said...

Would love to have the pattern. Thank you! jennifermaybooth@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

This is Exactly what I just on the computer to find. I totally relate to tight finances. May I please have a copy of the pattern?

mom2aej@yahoo.com

Thank you so much and I love how yours has come out.

Anonymous said...

I'd love the pattern please!
leannelloyd@centurytel.net

Misti said...

I would love the pattern as well! you are very good! this is adorable! I love it! Thank you so much!

TheBabe@TheBabeShop.com

www.TheBabeShop.com

Melissa said...

This is awesome!! Thanks!
Melissa Hendrix
m.hendrix86@gmail.com

לימונדה said...

I would love this pattern please send me.

The Mad Hadderz said...

I love this and would def. love the pattern. My email is dustysky2000@yahoo.com. I will link to you and send pics as well. You're awesome.

Carrie said...

Hi! I'd love this pattern too.. I have a wallet that's similar but made of super thick fake leather and I've been wanting to make a better one. Thanks!

Carrie
carrielogic at gmail.com

Toni said...

I would love the pattern as well! I've been trying to come up with my own but it's just not gonna happen! Thanks in advance.

kharliebug at yahoo dot com

Carrie said...

May I please, please have the pattern for this? I promise to share and give you lots of credit :)

-Carrie

carrielovescoupons@yahoo.com

Anonymous said...

I have been scouring all the craft sites I know looking for a FREE pattern similar to this one! Thank you so much for providing it for free! I'd love to make this myself!

My email:
adoveslife@gmail.com

Patrice said...

Tutorial and a free pattern? I am in! I love the result, so cute!

Thanks for linking up to Lemon Tree Creations today!

Scarlet Bluefield said...

Found you via LTC. My cardboard coupon holder is falling apart, so I've been contemplating what to do next--so this is perfect timing. I would love the pattern, please!

TBlauwkamp(at)yahoo(dot)com

Thank you so much!

The Teacher Geek said...

This is pretty darn awesome. I've been looking for a pattern for a while. I do "mild" couponing, so this will come in handy. I may also try to tweak it so that the outer flap can wrap around a shopping cart handle when in use. Thank you for sharing!!

The Teacher Geek said...

Whoopsie. Not enough coffee yet. nancyhbarlow(at)gmail(dot)com

cherie_michelle said...

I LOVE this! :) Just came across your blog via stumbleupon. Would you mind sending me the pattern?! great work!

bec =) said...

lovely! would love to make this for a friend - could I pls have the pattern? becbecbecbecbec@hotmail.com

Anonymous said...

Oh yes I would love the pattern. Thank you for the time that you took.
Salgueiro.c@gmail.com
Thank you
Cristina

eugenia said...

Me encantaria recibir el PDF eugenia64@gmail.com
Gracias

Patch da Carol said...

Adorei!

Quero fazer um para arquivar as minhas contas (agua, luz...) gostaria muito de receber seu molde.

Bjos do Brasil

caroline1182@hotmail.com
ccastilho@royton.com.br

Teacher Karina said...

hermoso!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
me darías el patrón? please!
kaberta@gmail.com

Celvinha said...

Muito bom. Gostaria de receber o padrão. Thanks.
Email celvia@gmail.com

MommaLlama said...

I love this little organizer!

slhightower5 at yahoo dot com

Lu Orphão said...

Hi dear!!
Please, I would love to have this pattern. My email is luorphao@gmail.com
Thanks a lot!!!
xxx
Luísa

Anonymous said...

I've been looking for a cute, simple & FREE pattern. Yours fits the bill. Please send me the pattern. I will send pictures too.
Thanks,
kathy2200@msn.com

Cida Maria said...

I would love to have this pattern. You can send it to maria.moraes@gmx.net
Thanks!

Jamie Walker said...

I love the look of this coupon clutch. Could you send me the pattern? My email is jamie.walker9@yahoo.com.

THanks.

pannellfamily said...

I would LOVE to have a copy of this pattern!! My email address is jlpannell@ymail.com. Thank you so much!!

Anonymous said...

Great clutch! Would love the pattern. Thanks! = ) siempresarita@yahoo.com

salvemaria53 said...

Love it! I would love to have the pattern and will link up when I find some time to sew one. Hope it is soon. :-)
salvemaria53@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

I really loved your tutorial! Can I please get the pattern?? Would love to make one of these.. I coupon so this would come in handy for me, plus it would make some great gifts for a few people i know! Will send pics of the finished product!

danettemasters@yahoo.com

Roman said...

I'd love the pattern please! leannelloyd@centurytel.net

Barbie said...

I love your tutorial, but I have one question...where did you get your dress? I adore it.

Unknown said...

Dis anyone actually get the pattern I will love to get it if so soniar2103@yahoo.com

Unknown said...

I would this pattern also.Thank you.jackie.m.mclellan@gmail.com

Beeshebags said...

Grrrrrr I bought the pattern, but now when I search for it on my pc it's nowhere to be found.....if anyone has the pattern, can they let me know the name of the file please? beadnv@gmail.com Thanks

Hugs
Naomi

Anonymous said...

I would love a copy of the pattern. Thanks for the tutorial as well. My email is sharylsplace@comcast.net

Anonymous said...

This is a very nice and practical organizer....just what my sister has been asking me to sew for her! You are very clever and creative to design this coupon clutch. Would be so kind to e-mail the pattern to me....kind regards cooperjack196@yahoo.com

Elder & Sister Rowley said...

Can I please get this pattern? I've been searching everywhere. stewtamrowley@gmail.com