I really like and appreciate hand written notes. Trouble is I'm often quite late sending them for whatever the occasion happens to be - I tend to live by the "better late than never" mantra.
While I was waiting to get my hair trimmed on Saturday, I realized if I had some cards with me I could write one to a person I've been meaning to send a note to for a very long time. That led me to this little post pocketbook.
Inside there's a pocket for A6 note cards and envelopes, a mini pen and a pocket for postage stamps. It's 12cm x 16.5cm, large enough to hold decent size note cards and small enough to toss in my handbag.
I've used vintage materials, except the red spotty one, and the book is strengthened with two pieces of very sturdy card stock that was the base of a used up sketch pad. I'll keep it stocked up with blank note cards - the cards pictured inside the pocket I made with these pretty images.
The practicality of this piece makes me extra pleased with the way it's turned out - I've needed one of these for a long time -
don't know why it took me so long to think it up.
I've already dreamt up loads of other designs using more of my vintage bits as well as my contemporary fabric stash. Hope I get around to stitching them.
Yes, I believe I have a tardy thank you note to send out...better late than never?
Posted by: Gift of Green | June 18, 2008 at 05:34 AM
i love this! such a fabulous idea! i usually only get around to hand written if i am sending a thank you, but i love the idea of having blank notes handy just to make someone's day. and what a lovely gift idea! you are so talented...
Posted by: elissa | June 18, 2008 at 01:09 PM
this is awesome! I know what you mean about having little opportunities to quick write a note to someone but not having the paper/stamps available just then. It's very smart! I, too, prefer snail mail....hope it never goes away.....
Posted by: eydie | June 18, 2008 at 02:22 PM
So cute! I love the fabric combinations and the little mail box. What a good idea writing notes while getting your hair done, I will have to try that at my next appointment.
Posted by: Tracey | June 18, 2008 at 11:33 PM
I'm so glad I found your blog! Actually, I saw the link from Lucy's Tales From Home - and I love her blog as much as I do yours! I'll definitely be back - got to leave now to make myself one of those darling notecard books!! Thanks!
Posted by: Nan | June 19, 2008 at 04:00 AM
This is so stinkin' cute!!! I struggle with the same tardiness on sending cards, but this little folio is so cute that you'd WANT to whip it out and send off a few cards. I think a card folio just got added to my must-sew list. Thanks!!!
Posted by: Anne | June 19, 2008 at 01:49 PM
oh this is just lovely! What a smart idea!
I also wanted to let you know about a giveaway going on over at the blog. If you have a chance swing on by. It lasts until midnight on Thursday (tonight!). :)
Kristin :)
Posted by: kristin | June 20, 2008 at 12:42 AM
Joanie this is really cute. I have been looking at the "notetakers" in my Japanese mags and have been trying to get the gumtion up to try one, not reading Japanese and all. I just love them. I love your version! I tagged you on my blog for 6 unimportant things if you want to play:)
Posted by: cindy | June 20, 2008 at 04:32 AM
Oh Cindy I wish I had more Japanese craft books, I would of realized I needed one of these sooner :)
Posted by: joanie | June 20, 2008 at 06:43 AM
Hi Joanie
I LOVE this. I am a big letter writer. If you ever want to pen pal let me know. I particularly like the letterbox. I am happy to play along with the six things about me.
AMx
Posted by: Crafty Girl with Ruffle | June 21, 2008 at 05:57 PM
What a great idea! And I love the fabric!
Posted by: Sue | November 30, 2008 at 04:16 AM