With our fabric embellishments complete, we now move on to the basic construction of the case. First, measure across the top or bottom of your fabric. Cut two strips of the base fabric 1 1/4″ wide by the length of your measurement plus an extra inch. For example, my strips measured 1 1/4″ x 7 1/4″.
Place one strip at the top of your fabric, right sides together, and stitch. Repeat this step at the bottom of your fabric.
Top and Bottom Strip
Fold the raw edge, press, and fold again, lining the folded edge up with the seam line. Pin in place (or secure with Glue Pins) andtopstitch. Trim the edges so that they are flush with the sides.
Topstitching
Now measure the length of your fabric sides. Cut two strips that measure 1 3/4″ wide by the length of your measurement plus an extra two inches. Stabilize these strips with fusible interfacing.
Side Strips
Place the first strip on one side, right sides together, with an inch extending on each end. Stitch using a 3/8″ seam allowance. Repeat this step on the opposite side.
Side Strips with 3/8″ Seam Allowance
Take your project to your pressing area and make a 3/8″ fold down the raw edges of both strips. Press in place.
Pressed 3/8″ Edge
Next, turn the fold back on itself (right sides together), lining it up with the seam line on the right side of the fabric. Mark a line at each corner even with the finished edge of the top and bottom. Stitch all four lines, securing the beginning and ending stitches with a few back stitches.
Stitched Corners
Your project should now look like this.
Untrimmed Corners
Trim each corner, leaving about 1/8″ seam allowance at each edge.
Trimmed to 1/8″ Seam Allowance
Turn each of the corners to the right side. You may like to use a stiletto to get nice crisp edges. Press the sides in place and pin (or use Glue Pins).Topstitch down each side.
Finished Corners
Topstitched Sides
If you feel the sides of your project, the finished trim should extend a little beyond the inner seam allowance. This will be helpful when we begin the next phase of the project.
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N. Rene West
Time Treasured
