Life keeps happening around here and this tutorial keeps not being written up. I had grand plans for it being super detailed and teaching the skill of how to apply seam binding… but it just isn’t happening at this time. So here is the quick and dirty version.
Gather your Materials
For your reference, I have included the measurements for the project shown. The puzzle is a Melissa and Doug Farm Animal Puzzle – measuring 1.5″ x 12″ x 15.5″. The finished envelope is approximately 18″ x 16″.
Fabric for “back of envelope”
Any woven fabric will do. The fabric in this tutorial is a quilting cotton. Heavier weight fabrics will give it a sturdier feel.
Size: width x [height+flap closure length]
Example Size: 18″ x 21″
8-gauge (or higher) vinyl
They sell this at my Joann’s in the home decorating department near the vinyl tablecloth.
Size: width x height
Example Size: 18″ x 16″
Sew-on Velcro
length needed: width
Example length: 18″
Bias tape
I like 1/2″ width because it is less fiddly than the thinner widths. Buy pre-made bias at a fabric shop or make your own. This project does not require true “bias” binding (it can be cut along the grain) because we won’t be sewing on any curved edges.
length needed: 3*width + 2*height + approx. 4 inches extra
Example length: at least 2 1/2 yards
Thread * Sewing Machine * Straight Edge * Ball Point Pen * Scissors
Apply seam binding and Velcro to vinyl
Apply seam binding to top edge of your vinyl piece using your favorite method. My favorite method is the “regular top-stitched” method outlined here. Another option is a classic quilt binding method, outlined here.
Then, sew on the loop side of your Velcro using a zig zag stitch.
Baste vinyl and backing together
Bind outside edge
This is the fun part. Enclose, the entire outer edge with seam binding. Again, use whatever method you like. (See the links above for directions) I use this method to make my mitered corners.
Classy, eh?
Sew on Velcro
Last step! Attach the hook side of the Velcro to your envelope flap with a zig-zag stitch.
All Done!
Let me know if you are interested in a seam binding tutorial. I could still write one up if needed.
Hey, great timing! I just bought some vinyl from the fabric store out of curiosity. Might try something like this with your tutorial. Thanks!
Have fun! I lengthened my stitches when sewing with the vinyl and used my teflon foot to prevent sticking. I hear that masking tape on the bottom of your foot helps if you don’t have a non-stick foot.
You can’t get the masking tape from beneath the stitches and it leave a nasty residue. I used baby powder. It was a MESS…but for someone without a teflon foot (where did you find yours?) it worked well.
Jessica. The tape goes on the sewing machine foot not on the vinyl.
What type of sewing machine do you have? Going to a local sewing machine dealer is always the best option, but many feet are available on Amazon.
If you want, you can cut up and use those big vinyl bags that comforters and sheet sets come in, instead of buying vinyl.