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How to Sew a Travel Cord Organizer | Brother Sews

In an age where our lives are interwoven with technology, keeping our cords tidy and organised is essential, particularly when travelling. A travel cord organiser is a handy solution that not only protects your devices but also helps you avoid the frustration of untangling cords while on the go. In this guide, we’ll take you through the steps to create your very own travel cord organiser using your Brother sewing machine.

Materials You Will Need

Before you begin, gather the following materials:

• Fusible interfacing: This provides structure to your organiser.
• Cotton fabric: Choose a fabric that suits your style—maybe a fun print or a classic solid.
• Velcro or snap fasteners: These will secure your organiser when it’s rolled up.
• Clear vinyl: Optional, but great for visibility of contents.
• Thread: Match the thread colour to your fabric.
• Scissors, pins and a ruler: For cutting and securing your materials.
• Sewing machine: Your trusty Brother sewing machine will be your best friend in this project.
• Iron: For pressing seams.

Measurements and Cutting

1. Determine the Size: A common size for a travel cord organiser is approximately 12 inches wide by 8 inches tall when opened, but you can adjust this based on your needs.

2. Cut the Fabric: From your chosen fabric, cut two pieces measuring 12 inches by 8 inches for the outer layer and two pieces measuring 12 inches by 8 inches for the lining.

3. Add Interfacing: Cut a piece of fusible interfacing the same size as your outer fabric and fuse it to the wrong side using an iron. This will give the organiser stiffness.

4. Cut Tabs: Depending on the design, cut two 2-inch by 4-inch fabric pieces for the Velcro/snap fasteners.

Assembling Your Cord Organiser

Step 1: Prepare the Pockets

1. Create Insert Pockets: Cut additional smaller pieces of fabric for pockets. A good size for these is 4 inches by 5 inches. You can make multiple pockets depending on how many cords you plan to store.

2. Sew Pockets: Hem the top edge of each pocket piece by folding it down ¼ inch and pressing it in place. Sew this down to secure.

Step 2: Position the Pockets

1. Arrange the Pockets: On one of your lining pieces, pin the pockets in place at varying heights to allow for different cord lengths. Make sure to leave space in between for the cords to fit comfortably.

2. Sew the Pockets: Sew the sides and bottom of each pocket to attach them to the lining piece. Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end for durability.

Step 3: Attach Velcro/Snap Fasteners

1. Prepare the Tabs: Fold each 2-inch by 4-inch fabric piece in half lengthwise, right sides together. Sew along the edge, then turn right side out and press.

2. Attach Fasteners: Sew one half of the Velcro or snap to the ends of these tabs. Attach the other half to the corresponding area on your outer fabric.

Step 4: Assemble the Organiser

1. Layer the Fabric: Place the outer fabric piece right side up, then lay the lining piece with the pockets right side down on top of it. Pin around the edges, ensuring the tabs are tucked in between both layers.

2. Sew the Edges: Using a ¼ inch seam allowance, sew around the edges, leaving a gap of about 4 inches along the bottom edge for turning.

3. Turn the Organiser: Carefully turn the organiser right side out through the gap. Use your scissors or a turning tool to push out the corners.

4. Pressing: Iron the organiser flat, making sure the edges are crisp. Sew the gap closed by hand or with a sewing machine for a neat finish.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

1. Topstitching: For a polished look, topstitch around the entire organiser about 1/8 inch from the edge.

2. Final Touches: Attach the other half of the Velcro or snap to the corresponding area on the outer layer, ensuring a secure closure.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve now created a stylish and functional travel cord organiser with your Brother sewing machine. Whether you’re going on holiday or just need to tidy up your tech at home, this organiser will keep your cords neat and accessible. Feel free to personalise it with additional features such as more pockets or decorative elements to make it truly yours. Enjoy your new creation, and happy sewing!