How to Modify the Zip-up Cardholder: Two Simple Pattern Hacks for Extra Security

You know those makes you come back to again and again because they’re just so satisfying?
For me, that’s the Zip-up Cardholder. I reach for it whenever I’m low on sewjo or just want a quick project that actually gets finished in one sitting.

I’ve made loads of them over the years, and I’m not the only one. This little free pattern has become a favourite in the bag-making community. But… there’s one thing that kept coming up.

Pretty much every time I gave one away, I’d hear the same thing: “I love it, but I wish there was a way to close the front… I’m scared my cards will fall out.”

Or someone would message me saying they love the pattern (yay!), but they’d feel better if it had a snap or flap or something to hold things in place.

So I decided to do a little hack. Well, actually two.

Original Zip-up cardholder.

Modified Zip-up cardholder.

how to modify a sewing pattern

Here’s What I Changed

1. Snap Connector for the Front Pockets

The front card slots are super handy, but let’s be honest, when you throw the wallet into a bigger bag or carry it around, cards can slip out. So I added a snap connector across the front, and it’s made a huge difference.

It keeps everything snug and secure, without adding bulk.

2. Flap with Press Snaps for the Back Pocket

The back slip pocket is great for extra cards, receipts or folded notes, but again, I wanted a way to stop things from falling out. I added a flap closure with press snaps, and now everything stays where it should.

Why I Did It

Honestly? Partly because you kept asking, and I love that you’re thinking about function as well as looks. But also because I wanted to challenge myself a bit. I was in that mood where I didn’t want to start a big project, but I still felt like making something. So I thought: what if I tweak a pattern I already love?

I Filmed the Whole Thing

Instead of trying to explain it all with photos and text, I just hit “Go Live” and showed you step-by-step how to do both of these modifications. If you missed it, the replay is now available, and honestly, it’s much easier to follow if you watch it. You’ll need to print the original pattern, and in the video, I’ll show you how to modify it and draft the extra pieces for the snap connector and the flap.

Watch the tutorial here ⬇️

Don’t Have the Pattern Yet?

The Zip-up Cardholder pattern is completely free! You can download it from my website.
👉 Download the Free Pattern

If you give this hack a go, I’d love to see your version!
Tag me on social media @allsewpetite or share it in my Facebook group. I always get so excited when I see your makes pop up.

Got Ideas for Your Own Bag Designs?

If you’ve got sketches or design ideas floating around in your head — but you’ve no clue how to turn them into actual patterns — then I’d love to invite you to join my membership: the Bag Maker Community.

Inside the BMC, I show you step-by-step how to draft your own bag patterns from scratch. We cover the foundations, explore all kinds of styles and techniques, and you’ll get loads of support along the way. Whether you’re dreaming up your first custom bag or you’re ready to take things to the next level, this is where it all comes together. Click here to learn more.

Stay crafty friend!
Monika x