Create A Vintage Inspired Sew-Tidy

Hello sweet friends, I hope you have had a happy week. I have been in deep spring cleaning mode here at Storybook Cottage. One find that I found in the back of a closet received a makeover that I think you will enjoy. Here is how to Create A Vintage Inspired Sew-Tidy.

A Bit Of History

The folding organizers were first made in heavy pressed cardboard and later in wood in the 1920s and 30s.

The patented Mission Style design was manufactured by The Edmilton Corporation in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 

The portable storage device generally measure 31″ by 15′ and are 4  1/2 inches deep. 

The kits provided the wooden frames only. 

Needleworkers then personalized the Sew-Tidy’s with fabric and accessories of their own choosing. 

Recycled baby food jars were often used to hold contents. Nails or dowels were inserted as makeshift thread spool holders. 

Create A Vintage Inspired Sew-Tidy

This art kit belonged to Sweet Guy. It had to be at least 10 years old and much of the contents was used up or dried out.

It was also coming apart at the seams in some areas. 

I got permission from Sweet Guy to repurpose the case. 

First order of business was to remove the inner trays and repair the broken areas with glue and clamps. 

The interior trays needed a freshening up so it was spray paint to the rescue. 

Then I dug threw my fabric scraps to create various pockets.

A wool felt pad will keep pins and needles rust free. 

The storage area underneath was left empty to hold small works in progress. 

I love this on the go sewing organizer!

This Week’s Video

You can find step by step footage and detailed images in this week’s video. 

If you wish to view the video in a larger format just click on the black box in the lower left hand corner that says Watch on YouTube.

 

I’ll see you Sunday,

Laura