Soft pouches perfect for storage

Simple to sew bags keep precious accessories stored neatly away

pretty bags in floral fabric are easy to make and perfect for holding precious, dainty items. Light scarves and fragile summer jewellery can be carefully tucked away for winter. If made in a larger size, the pouches can also protect flimsy garments which may be in danger of snagging when hung up. Any leftover material can be used to make the pouches, and a sprig of lavender slipped alongside items made of natural fibres will help deter moths. Beloved items then have a safe home during the colder months, and the contents of the wardrobe are tidy and organised.

To make The pouch

1. Two pieces of fabric are selected, one for the lining and one for the outside, and cut to a matching size with sharp scissors. Dimensions can be adjusted as desired, depending on the size of the items to be stored. For a rectangular pouch, the shortest side is two thirds the length of the longest side.

2. With right sides facing, the two pieces of fabric are pinned securely together. At this stage, a taper or point can be cut at one end to make the flap of the envelope.

3. Leaving a ¼in (0.5cm) seam allowance, the two fabrics are sewn together with running stitch. A 3in (7.5cm) gap is left in the centre of a straight short end. The envelope is turned right side out and pressed. The seam allowance on the gap is pressed inwards and hand stitched to close.

4. The fabric is placed flat with the lining facing upwards and the bottom edge folded up to the base of the envelope flap. The two edges are then sewn together to form the pouch, and the flap is pressed down.

5. To add a fastening, a loop of ribbon can be sewn to the underside of the flap to loop around a button sewn on the front of the bag. Alternatively, a length of thread can be attached under the flap and wound around the button. Decorative touches may also be added if desired.