Meet Lily: A Simple, Stylish Project Designed by Renée!

Renée’s inspiration for the Lily pattern began with a busy day on the go. Between errands, travel, and work at Sallie Tomato, she wanted something functional that still reflected her love for great design. Out came the sketchbook, a few notes, and some of her favorite fabric swatches. From that creative spark, Lily was born—a lanyard that feels polished, secure, and personal all at once.

But Renée’s designs always come with heart. She wanted Lily to be approachable for everyone, from confident makers to those who are just starting their sewing journey. The steps are straightforward, the results are professional, and there’s that unmistakable joy that comes from finishing something that’s both practical and pretty.

And if you’ve been waiting for the perfect small project to build your sewing confidence, this one’s it. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for using your favorite non-woven fabrics like cork fabric, faux leather, or microsuede. These materials give Lily its beautiful finish and ensure durability that stands up to everyday use.

The magic of the Lily Lanyard is in its thoughtful design. It’s not just a strap with a clip—it’s a clever, compact organizer for your essentials. Lily features card pockets, a clear ID window, and a smooth zipper closure to keep everything in place. Each element was designed for ease, functionality, and style.

The strap connectors add that extra touch of strength, giving your finished lanyard a polished and professional look. It feels like something you’d find in a boutique store, but better, because you made it yourself.

You can use it for work badges, student IDs, event passes, or travel cards. It’s the perfect companion whether you’re heading to a craft fair, boarding a flight, or running errands around town. And since it’s so quick to make, you’ll probably find yourself stitching more than one—because once friends and family see it, they’ll want one too.

Part of what makes the Lily Lanyard such a joyful project is experimenting with fabric choices. Since it’s made from non-woven materials, you can explore textures and finishes that hold their shape beautifully. Cork fabric, for instance, brings a natural warmth and subtle shine that pairs perfectly with any hardware. Faux leather gives a sleek, classic feel, while microsuede adds a soft, cozy touch.

Renée’s own favorite combinations include Black Pebble Faux Leather with Gunmetal Hardware for a timeless look that matches anything, and Rustic Tourmaline Cork with Gold Hardware for a pop of playful color. The contrast between the elegant gold and the soft pink tone of the cork fabric turns Lily into a small but powerful style statement.

You can also dive into your own stash of cork and faux leather remnants to mix and match colors. Try combining a bold strap with a neutral body or use contrasting thread for a designer-inspired finish. The project is small enough to experiment freely, so it’s a great way to explore your creative side.

There’s something special about handmade gifts. They carry your care, creativity, and time in every stitch. The Lily Lanyard makes a wonderful gift for teachers, coworkers, students, and friends. It’s thoughtful, useful, and made with love. You can personalize each one with fabric choices that reflect the recipient’s personality—sleek black for the minimalist, soft blush for the romantic, or bright cork prints for the color lover.

If you’ve been searching for a last-minute gift idea that still feels personal, Lily is your new go-to. It comes together quickly, yet looks so polished that everyone will think you spent hours on it.

What makes Lily such a rewarding project is its simplicity. You don’t need a big workspace or a full day to complete it. It’s the kind of project you can sew in an afternoon, with a cup of coffee nearby and a playlist humming in the background. It’s perfect for beginners who want to practice sewing with non-woven materials or for experienced makers who simply want a relaxing, satisfying make.

Every stitch helps build confidence. You’ll learn about attaching zippers, adding strap connectors, and working with materials that hold structure. And by the end, you’ll not only have a finished project, but also a boost of creative energy that comes from making something with your own hands.

When you set out to make the Lily Lanyard, you’re not just sewing an accessory—you’re creating something that blends form, function, and joy. Every cut of fabric, every line of stitching, adds to that wonderful feeling of accomplishment that comes when you hold your finished piece.

Renée’s design philosophy shines through in Lily. It’s practical, approachable, and infused with thoughtfulness. It reminds us that sewing doesn’t have to be complicated to be rewarding. Sometimes, it’s the small, everyday items that make the biggest impact.