The first step in making your pen holder is to measure and cut the fabric according to the desired dimensions. By customizing the size, you can ensure that the pen holder will fit snugly around your notebook, holding your pens securely in place. Remember, accurate measurements are key to achieving a functional and well-fitting pen holder.
I made my pencil holder for a notebook of 8 1/2" by 6". If you want to use my measurements, here they are:
2 strips of fabric (for the body) of 2 1/2" by 8"
1 strip of fabric (for the pocket/loops) of 3 1/2" by 9"
1 strip of elastic of 8" long (my elastic was 1/2" wide but a bit wider will provide even more stability)
Once you have cut the fabric to size, it's time to interface all fabrics so cut the interfacing in the same size of the body fabric strips and half the height of the pocket fabric.
Create the pocket/loops panel
Fold the pocket fabric in half lengthwise. This will create a long, narrow rectangle. Top stitch the folded top.
Place one of the body fabrics right side up. Pin the elastic to the middle of the top and the bottom edges. Sew the elastic with 1/8" seam allowance.
Mark 1/2" on each side away from the edge.
Start marking the loops according to the width of your pens or pencils you plan on using with this holder.
Place the second fabric strip right side up and top it with the folded pocket fabric placed with the fold upwards.
Pin the sides so the edges align.
Sew the sides with 1/4" allowance.
Sew the loops to the back fabric as marked above.
Sew both panels together
When done sewing all loops, top this panel with the other fabric strip for the body, placed wrong side up. So the back and the front of the holder are facing.
Pin and sew with 1/4" seam allowance, leaving a gap of about 2" in one of the sides of the holder. Make sure the gap is above the pocket.
Clip the corners then turn the holder right side out.
Smooth out the seams and push the corners with a blunt tool.
Push the gap inside and press.
Sew all around the pen holder with 1/4" seam allowance. Make sure you don't catch the elastic in the seam.