Here’s a little project in honor of National Sewing Month – a simple little sewing kit. They are quick and easy to make and inexpensive too. I encourage you to make a few. Keep one in your purse, one at home and at work too. That way, you’re prepared any mending emergency.

They make excellent gifts, too. Stitch a few now, for stocking stuffers and birthday gifts later.

To begin, use your rotary cutter, ruler and cutting mat to cut three felt rectangles measuring 3.5 x 6 inches.

Stack two felt rectangles together horizontally. Next, add a zip-lock pouch (slightly smaller than the height of the felt) followed by the third felt layer.

Pin the layers together along the left side.

Hand or machine stitch down the center of the stack. This will be the “spine” of the book.

Open up the book, and trim away the bottom of the zip-lock bag.

Cut a 12-inch length of ribbon and center it on the spine of the book. Tack it down with a few stitches on the edges of the book and at the spine too.

Stitch down a decorative button on the book cover or embellish it in any way. You could embroider your monogram on the cover, add a few rhinestones or an appliqué.

Now it’s time to fill the book with your mending needs. Pin some pins and needles on the pages.

Fill the zip-lock pouch with buttons and thread.

Use your blade to cut a little slot to hold a seam ripper or tiny pair of scissors.

And once your book is filled, tie it closed with a neat little bow.