This sewing pattern has become a favorite to make for gifts. It’s the On The Go Organizer from Gingercake, a versatile soft notebook that you can customize and make your own.

My latest versions are for my boys. They frequently use them around the house, but they’re ideal for grabbing and going - be prepared for a wait at the doctor’s office, school meetings, sibling’s sporting lessons…you get the idea.

This version has one large pocket for a small tablet (ideally plain paper for the younger set, but I had trouble finding unlined notepads the right size) and numerous slots on the left for a selection of colored pencils. I spaced my slots according to the pencils I planned to use (locals can grab a handful at Pittsburgh Center for Creative Reuse - it seems they always have some there). The slots are snug, but I wouldn’t recommend carrying the organizer upside down as gravity will no doubt win.

You can finish it off with an elastic loop and a fabulous button.

The pattern also includes a version with two large slip-in pockets on both sides with little patch pockets for biz cards or the like and a single slot down the center for a nice pen. I’ve made that version as a teacher gift and have one in the works for myself. It’s such a handy little portfolio for those who haven’t given up on pen and paper entirely.

Aside from being functional, this is a great project to use up some fabric scraps - you may recognize my fabric from projects previously featured on the blog. You could even do some additional piecing on the cover - a great application for a little quilt-as-you-go project, perhaps.

Go ahead and make one for yourself or for your favorite doodler or list maker!