Welcome back to week two of the Gemella Sew Along! If you are just joining us, make sure to check out last week’s post, where we cut out the materials and fused the stabilizer. Now let’s get sewing!
This week, we will construct the flap and the snap tab, the credit card slots, and the ID window. You will need the following materials, tools, and notions:
The Gemella Wallet pattern
The pieces you cut last week
Double-sided tape
Scissors or rotary cutter and ruler
Fabric pen
Ruler
Edge punch (optional — see pattern for details)
Basecoat and edge paint
Sewing machine
Here is the full video tutorial for the Gemella Wallet. For each step below, I also include links to jump to the applicable timestamp in the video.
Step 1: Flap and Snap Tab
First, we will need to cut your Flap and Snap Tab pieces. I recommend using an edge punch to get the Snap Tab shape just right, like I do in the video (timestamp: 16:36), but scissors or a rotary cutter will also work. Then, it’s time to stitch the pieces together (timestamp: 19:50), trim the edges, and apply our basecoat and edgecoat.
One important note: You can use a magnetic snap, press snap, twist lock, or any similar type of fastener to securely close the flap and snap tab. If you’re using a magnetic snap, be sure to install the male portion of the snap prior to sewing the pieces together.
Step 2: Credit Card Slots and ID Window
For this step, you will need ⅛” double-sided tape. I like AJ Sign World’s 1/8" Double-Sided Tape because it’s not super sticky. It allows you to rip it by hand as you go instead of having to stop and cut it.
First, we will use clear vinyl to create the ID window. When we stitch around the ID window, instead of backstitching, we will pull the threads through to the back and tie them off (timestamp: 25:09). Then, we’ll add the Window Lining (timestamp: 25:42) and use the same technique of pulling the threads to the back and tying them off.
Then, we will finish making our credit card slots (timestamp: 32:14). This is where you can start to customize the wallet to fit your needs. For example, you can flip the direction of the credit card slots on one side, or you can move the phone pocket to the inside if you don’t need all the credit card slots. As I always say, a pattern is just a suggestion. Consider this pattern to be a starting point, and you can get as creative as you’d like!
For the credit card slots, I recommend using adhesive lining to make the process easier. You can use a ruler to help you fold the adhesive lining, which you can see in the video at 39:25. Follow the steps in the pattern and the tips in the video, and your credit card slots will be complete in no time.
Join Me Next Week to Complete Your Gemella Wallet
We did it — two weeks down and one to go! Next week, we will finish constructing the wallet and give it some finishing touches.
In the meantime, my team and I will be at AQS QuiltWeek in Paducah, KY. Make sure to stop by Booth 4502 and say hello if you’re attending too!
Remember to Share Your Photos for a Chance to Win
I love seeing all of your creations, so don’t forget to share how your Gemella is coming along. When you share a photo of your hard work, you’ll also have the chance to win an exclusive 25% discount at the Simply Classic online store. There are two ways to enter:
Option 1: Post in the Simply Classic Inspiration Group on Facebook.
Join the Simply Classic Inspiration Group and create a new post to show us your Gemella Wallet in progress.
Option 2: Leave a comment on this blog post.
Leave a comment on this post that includes a photo of your progress.
Remember, you can enter once per week until the end of the Sew Along. Then, we will randomly select one entrant to win a 25% coupon to Simply Classic. That’s 25% off patterns, leather, fabrics, hardware, tools and notions — everything you need for your next project. (Read the official rules here.)
Happy sewing!