Originally I had a completely different name in mind for this project. As I wrote the pattern though, I kept referring to each of the components as "keepers". It was then I realised that, well, It's a Keeper! A keeper of stationery, or sewing supplies, or office snacks you don't want to share... One thing is for sure, whatever you choose to use your Keeper for, it will keep everything safely organised and look fabulous while doing so!
 
The design features two removable "Pen Keepers" as well as a removable drawer. It was a functionality based design decision, but it also means that if you don't want them, you don't have to make them. You may need a larger keeper space to store other items? All Cake & Ale patterns are designed for maximum personalisation.
 
The other Keeper element is the "Envelope Keeper". This space can house up to DL letters (landscape format) or A5 notebooks and C5 envelopes. 
 
Whatever you use your keeper for, I hope the make brings you joy. 
 
Finished Size - 9" Wide x 3 ¾" Deep x 3" High. 

This PDF includes;
• “How to” English Paper Piecing (EPP) illustrated instructions.
• Print at home templates.
• Assembly instructions - written and illustrated.

From your stash you will need;
• Scrap fabrics ideally, or:
  1 x Fat ¼’s worth of fabric for the lining - you will use most of it.
  3 x Contrasting Fat 1⁄8's for the outer and removable sections.
• Glue baste E.g. Sewline (glue stick also works in a pinch).
• General sewing supplies e.g. needle, sewing thread and thimble.
• Office paper and a laminator OR Card stock around 200 - 250gsm.
• Craft safety knife and ruler OR sharp paper scissors.
• “Add-a-Quarter” ruler, quilting ruler or something similar to help you add seam allowance.

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Adventurous Beginner. Our instructions are both written and illustrated catering for both learning styles.
 
  SVG Files are available to download as a separate purchase!   

*** FAQ's ***

Do you I need a laminator?
No you don't, this is just a technique you can use if your printer does not like printing on card stock (like mine).

What weight card stock is best?
If you can print on card we recommend that a stock 220GSM - 250GSM be used, it needs enough bulk to hold the sides up but you also need to work within your own comfort zone.
 
Do I really leave the papers in?
YES!! Unlike traditional EPP our card stock templates stay in permanently. This is what creates, and holds the structure of our unique patterns together.

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Welcome to Cake & Ale! Our mission is all about combining the charm of traditional quilting with a fresh, modern twist. We're here to bring you patterns that you can lovingly handcraft using techniques passed down through generations. But guess what? You don't need to dedicate weeks to these projects – you can finish them up in just one weekend!

Now, if you're new to the world of hand sewing, don't worry. We've got your back. We're all about something called English Paper Piecing (EPP). This technique involves wrapping fabric around paper templates, kind of like creating a snug little fabric hug around them. This gives you the foundation to create these seriously intricate and spot-on shapes.

Once you've got these fabric-covered templates, it's like putting together a puzzle. You stitch them up, piece by piece, to form a work of art that looks like you spent ages on it. It's like magic, but with needle and thread.

So, whether you're a seasoned stitcher or just dipping your toes into the world of hand sewing, we're here to provide you with patterns that marry tradition and innovation. Get ready to create pieces that will leave everyone thinking you're a crafting rockstar – all in the span of a weekend!