When I first saw the Cozy Nest Play Then Store Away, I knew it was something I'd want to tackle. I could see so many ways to make this MORE than just a box with zippers. But let me not get ahead of myself!

Cozy Nest was generous enough to offer me this pattern for free for a review. All opinions remain my own.

The Cozy Nest Play Then Store Away is a fairly simple (in theory) design and comes in 2 different sizes. You will need to print out 2 pieces of paper for the corner cut out. All other pieces are rectangles that are best cut out with a cutting mat and quilting ruler. The tutorial looks SO simple on paper. Do this, do that, then all done.

BUT HA! You are doing things with zippers here that will leave you mind blown. Don't get me wrong. It isn't hard, it isn't difficult, but it takes a bit of time and precision. Expect to use a LOT of pins (at least for your first few). It took me about 4 hours to complete my first one. That time included making my own bias tape and improvising with a few materials.

I made the small size (9"x12"X7") and it is perfect for all the little toys my youngest daughter likes to drag all over the house. I have to admit, all zipped up, this thing looks amazing. I opted to skip the handles and I now regret it! Take the extra few minutes and put those handles on! The Play Then Store Away is very professional and the ribbon covers on the zippers are a really fancy touch. It was clear to my kids that the green was the grassy lawn for our Ryan's Room and Melissa and Doug Wooden dolls.

Tools you'll find really helpful include a LOT of pins

A zipper foot. I did the majority of the construction with my zipper foot.

AND, if you have one, break out your table extension for this one. The mat is very heavy because of the layers of interfacing and then plastic canvas. This makes for a very sturdy mat (which is good). But the weight will cause your mat to repeatedly attempt to fall off the sewing bed of your machine, so if you have one use your table extension. If you don't, improvise and use some phone books. You won't regret it.

This is a great pattern for those looking to make a little extra cash on a great product. You could make these super fancy by creating details on the inner mat. Throw in some coordinating themed items and you have a great seller! Possible ideas:

-Farm land by adding in a barn applique, pond and perhaps a few bales of hay.
-Under sea by using a blue inner and using fish, jelly fish and plants as applique.
-Jungle with more animals appliqued in.
-Cars with streets and buildings appliqued.
-Doll house by creating a grid and doing furniture applique inside.

Or go simple. Sew them up in fabrics you love and just tell your kids to stop leaving their toys everywhere. You know, whatever. :) Best part, when they're done playing, just zip up the 4 sides and the mess is gone!

Get your copy here: Cozy Nest Design Play Then Store Away