DIY Journal: Pouch keeps phone, camera from clashing
Put away your power tools, wires and eye hooks. This project is a bit on the crafty side but is an absolute necessity.
After losing one decent point-and-shoot camera to the daily combat in my purse, I decided to design a camera/iPhone shock-absorbing protective pouch to carry both. It includes two handy and practical features. First, the pouch has a divider so phone and camera don't scratch each other; second, it has an attachable strap for bike rides or Rollerblading adventures. If you don't sew, call on your favorite auntie to make you one. It's as easy as pie, or in my case, easier than making a pie.
What you need:
» 1/2 yard of fabric.
» 1/2 yard of quilted fabric (for the lining).
» Sewing machine.
» Scissors.
» Thread.
» 7-by-4 1/2-inch felt.
» 8-inch piece of elastic.
» 8-inch ribbon.
» 1/2-inch-wide nylon leash with a spring hook, and one extra hook.
What you do:
1. Cut fabric and lining 7-by-17-inches long.
2. From top, measure down 41/2 inches on sides, mark and trim off 1/4 inch from side edges. This will allow the flap to slide under elastic.
3. Put right sides of fabric together, pin and stitch around fabric and lining, leaving 5 inches open for turning.
4. Clip seam allowance at notches and trim off extra seam allowance at corners.
5. Turn right side out, pin closed.
6. Fold ribbon pieces in half and fold ends under. Pin on the outside 5 inches down from top and 11/2 inches in from edges. Stitch ribbons in place.
7. Fold pouch fabric up 5 1/2 inches from bottom, slide felt piece inside, and pin elastic piece across front of pouch 11/4 inches from top, making sure ends are folded into side seams.
8. Stitch up both sides, reinforcing at top and bottom.
9. Open handle of a nylon leash, attach second spring clip, pin and stitch in place.
I tested this on a long bike ride, and it came through with flying colors.
