How to Make a Sea Pebbles Patchwork Bag
Dreaming of a summer trip to the sea? Try sewing a bag, cosmetic pouch, or clutch with a marine theme. Quilters and anyone who enjoys working with bright fabric scraps may like this "Sea Pebbles" idea. It can be made from materials you already have on hand.
Materials
- Base fabric.
- Thick polyester batting or foam.
- Fabric for the top layer in your chosen colour.
- Fabric scraps at least 5 cm across.
Sewing the Sea Pebbles Block
Make a sandwich of lining, stabiliser, and top fabric. Cut freeform circles and irregular ovals from the scraps. Arrange them on the base, placing the larger pieces first and filling the gaps with smaller ones. Pin each piece in place. You can also use a piece of fusible web; when pressing it, use an iron setting suitable for the fabric and keep your hands clear of the hot soleplate.
Zigzag-stitch the pieces to the base.
For more dimension, you can place a little stuffing beneath the scraps so that the "pebbles" stand proud, or quilt the base to emphasise the raised elements. Use this block for an entire bag, pockets, or smaller details.
You could also sew a bag like this as another variation on the "pebbles" idea. I think the principle is the same, with decorative stitching added on a regular sewing machine.