My diaper bag consistently turns into an abyss. It amazes me how much stuff ends up there and the struggle it can cause me finding smaller items I need without dumping out the entire bag. I found a simple solution that has saved me lots of time and sanity – I made a small vinyl organizer bag to hold all my smaller necessities so they are contained and can be found quickly.
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Fun colored fabric makes the organizer bag easy to spot within the diaper bag. Vinyl on both sides makes it easy to see exactly what item I want and retrieve that item quickly. It’s also a great way to switch diaper bags easily and know I still have *my* stuff.
I’ve enjoyed it so much, I made another recently to give as a gift. I’m going to fill it with a few fun items too including the new Extra® Gum 35-stick pack I found at the checkout registers at Kroger. Perfect for quickly freshening your breath plus the large packages mean you have plenty to share as well – Give Extra, Get Extra.
Also, with 35 sticks, you’re less likely to need to refill this time anytime soon meaning more focus can go on remembering all those other things like diapers, wipes, and sippy cups. The only decision is choosing a flavor – Spearmint or Polar Ice®?
Fun fact: the new Extra® Gum 35-stick packages feature durable, recycled packaging. They are perfect for reusing after you’ve finished the gum. Fill them with crayons or playing cards for on the go entertainment for your kids. Use them to create your own mini first-aid kit and fill with a couple of bandages plus individual alcohol and/or first aid ointment packs. The possibilities are limitless!
Here’s how to make your own organizer bag to stash yours in …
Supplies
- Fabric
Top/back piece: 8-1/2″ x 9-1/2″
Bottom piece (below zipper): 4″ x 9-1/2″
Strap: 2-1/2″ x 10″ - Vinyl
2 pieces: 4″ x 9-1/2″ - 9″ zipper
- Coordinating thread
- Scissors
- Straight pins
- Fabric marker
- Sharpie or similar marker (for marking the vinyl)
- Fabric measuring tape
- Long ruler and/or Quilter’s Square (optional)
- Ball point bodkin (optional)
Instructions
Step 1 Measure and cut 3 pieces from the patterned fabric and 2 pieces from the vinyl in the sizes noted above.
Step 2 Use a fabric marker to draw a line 1/2″ in on each long side of the 3 fabric pieces.
Step 3 Fold the long edges to the line and press with an iron to create a finished edge. Next fold each fabric piece in half longwise so the finished edges touch. Press again. **For the strap piece only, sew along open edge to close.
Step 4 Line up the zipper with the folded edge of one of the fabric pieces and pin in place.
Step 5 Machine sew using the zipper foot.
Repeat steps 4 & 5 with remaining fabric piece and opposite side of zipper.
Step 6 Position one piece of vinyl approximately 1/2″ into open end of fabric. Pin in place and sew. Repeat on the opposite side with remaining piece of vinyl.
Step 7 Fold strap in half and pin in place over open end of zipper.
Step 8 Partially unzip zipper. Then fold bag so right sides are facing. Align the finished fabric ends and pin together.
Sew around sides and bottom with a 1/4″ seam allowance. Trim any excess fabric and/or vinyl. Cut bottom corners at angles to prepare for turning right side out.
Step 9 Carefully turn bag inside out and gently work corners to a point. A ball point bodkin is very helpful for this step, but you can also use a the eraser end of a pencil. Press out all edges using your hands.
>> Download a printable copy of this tutorial here. <<
Finally just fill your bag and enjoy!
How do you keep your diaper bag organized?
Looking for more sewing project ideas? Take a look at my Sewing Projects page or follow my Sewing board on Pinterest:
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