Washrag Travel Case: Trial Run

The other day I was washing my makeup brushes (using the tutorial found here) because 1) it desperately needed to be done, and 2) my face has been breaking out like crazy. After they were clean and dry and smelling brand new, it seemed a little silly to just toss them back in a makeup bag covered in blush and powder foundation. (Guess I should clean that, now, too?) I decided to tackle a pin I've had pinned on Pinterest for quite some time. I found it on Etsy, so there was no tutorial. Fine then. I made my own.

I started with two simple washrags, two pieces of patterned ribbon (cut just over an inch longer than the width of the washrag,) and thread. Velcro is an option, but I opted against it, because I'm not a huge fan of pulling fuzz and hairs out of it every time I use it. If you'd prefer to tie off your travel case, leave your ribbon a bit longer (perhaps double the length.)

The first step (pic. 1) was to lay one washrag flat and determine the length of the ribbon. I used two pieces, but you can get fancy and add whatever you'd like. Lace, several patterns of ribbon, fabric flowers. Just remember, the beauty of this little project is that it is machine washable, so keep that in mind when choosing your embellishments.

Then, I folded the ends of the ribbon over the edges of the rag and pinned them (pic. 2). If you use longer ribbon to use as a tie, skip the folding and just pin in place. I used a finished stitch along the length of the ribbon, right down the middle (pic. 3).

Next, the other washrag was folded width-wise with one side longer than the other and pinned in place (it should create a layered effect.) I stitched the rags together by sewing all around the edges with my contrasting thread. Then I decided what size I wanted my pockets and used four finished stitches lengthwise (pic. 4).

That's it! I now have a machine washable travel case with ten pockets for my makeup brushes, toothbrush, razor and whatever else I need to take with me. I do think that the next time I make one, I'll leave the ribbon a little longer and create a tie for my handy little case. Of course, this was a blind flight. I'm pretty impressed with myself!