A Pack-Along Interactive Quilt

This little pack-along quilt was made for interactive play!

Kid-Tested, too!  It kept this sweet little three-year-old entertained, even before the binding was stitched down!

The flap is actually a pocket to store all the pieces.

Here's how to make a pocket/flap for a small pack-along quilt:

• Cut two pocket pieces measuring 7-1/2" x 8-1/2" (I pieced the pocket front with a leftover panel).
• Pre-finish the top edge of the pocket lining by folding under 1/4" twice and top-stitching.
• Place both pocket pieces right sides together and stitch the lower three sides, leaving the top open. 
• Next, turn pocket right side out and press.
• Edge-stitch to finish those three edges.
• Stitch a length of Velcro to the bottom of the pocket on the lining side.

Once the quilt is quilted, the pocket is attached prior to machine-binding.

• Center the pocket right side up, aligning the raw edge with the top edge of the quilt back.
• Baste in place.
• Attach the binding to the quilt, enclosing the raw edges of the pocket.  I attached the binding to the back of the quilt, then machine-stitched to the quilt front to finish.  (video tutorial)
• Once the binding is attached, fold the quilt lengthwise in thirds, then fold into thirds again to determine where to stitch the corresponding Velcro piece to the back of the quilt.  Stitch through all layers (careful to avoid any washers - see what I mean HERE).

Make a handle.

• Cut a 3-1/2" x 8-1/2" rectangle.
• Fold in half lengthwise and finger-press to form a crease.
• Bring the outer edges to the center crease, then fold in half again.
• Edge-stitch along both long sides to form the handle.
• Turn the short ends under and pin to the pocket/flap alongside the binding.
• Stitch the ends down, clip threads.  Once that's done, it's time to play!

"Birdland" Interactive Story-Telling quilt by Deonn Stott, 2015
"Beautiful Birds" fabric by Tracy Lisotte for Elizabeth's Studios

Now the little bird pieces can be stored in the pocket when it's time to clean up and put away.  See how I made this adorable interactive quilt, complete with magnets and washers HERE.  I think it will be a great item for our family auction next summer!

More ideas for Pack-Along quilts HERE.