How to make fabric envelopes

Make a set of easy to sew fabric envelopes using different patterned fabrics, such as florals or polka dots, so it's easy to find the contents you need.

You will need

• Newspaper for pattern
• Main fabric (we used Rose Chintz, ref 5949/008; Sixpence Grey, both £16.99 a metre, Prestigious Textiles)
• Button
• Press stud
• Matching thread

Step 1) Draw a 60cm by 40cm rectangle on a sheet of newspaper (you may need to join a couple of sheets together with sticky tape). Cut out.

Step 2) To make the pointed end, measure and mark two 10cm points from one short end. Then mark the half way mark along the same short edge. Use a ruler and tailor's chalk to join the three points and form a pointed end. Cut along the chalked lines.

Step 3) Use the newspaper pattern to cut two pieces of main fabric (one will be for the lining). Right sides facing and matching raw edges all round, stitch the pieces together taking a 1.5cm seam and leaving a 20cm gap along the short straight edge for turning through.Step 4) Trim and press open seam allowances. Turn through and press. Then fold in the raw edges around the opening and press again. Slip stitch the opening closed.

Step 5) To create the envelope shape, fold up the short straight edge by 23.5cm and pin along both sides. Starting at one side, top stitch 5mm from the edge continuing around the pointed end and then on to the remaining side edge. Fasten off, remove pins, turn the flap down and press the envelope all over.

Step 6) Secure one side of a press stud to the underside of the envelope flap and the other to a corresponding point on the front of the envelope. Stitch a decorative button in place 1cm up from the point of the flap.

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