Fabric & Sewing How-To Guides

Looking for a new favorite day bag? This simple Origami Bag design makes a great slouchy purse or beach bag. It can be made with any heavy weight fabric and broadcloth and can be made in different sizes. It's currently one of my favorite bags. I get compliments on it all the time and have started making ones for my friends.

New regulations at major stadiums and concert venues call for clear vinyl bags to speed up stops at security checkpoints, but the bags they sell are usually ugly and have big logos on them. So, I am going to show you how to make a clear vinyl bag that doesn't require any kind of sewing. This bag meets most stadium requirements and is a cheap and fashionable alternative to ones you can buy online. It is super easy to make and seriously, who doesn't love a no sew project?

Reusable shopping bags are the green way to go! This tote bag can be used as a grocery bag, a farmer's market bag, or a general shopping bag. The ones you buy from the grocery store tend to be pretty ugly and not that durable. By making your own, you can choose the fabric and they're stronger than the store bought bags. If you want to be able to machine wash your bags, cotton or cotton blend fabrics are good choices.

Tote bags are perfect for on the go, or to take to the beach. They're simple to make and you can choose from a variety of prints or solids. The cotton fabric used is durable enough to hold everyday items including heavier things such as books.

This fleece hat with ear flaps is made with a super soft "bear skin" faux fur lining that's warm and cozy. You can also use smooth minky, sherpa minky, or another layer of fleece as a lining. This is a quick and easy project that's great for gifts for babies, children and adults, especially when paired with matching fleece mittens!

Zipper pouches of all sizes are handy to have around for carrying or organizing many different items, from cosmetics and jewelry to phones and technology accessories. This easy project is also a good introduction to zippers. So let's get started!

These fleece mittens have a super soft bear skin faux fur lining that makes your hands feel warm and cozy. You can also use smooth minky or another layer of fleece as a lining. This is a quick and easy project that's great for gifts for children and adults, especially when paired with a matching fleece hat!

Infinity scarves are a trendy accessory that can be worn year round, depending on the weight of the fabric. They are super simple to make, so it's a great project for beginner sewers. They also make a great handmade gift! I'm using a cotton print, but a jersey knit is a popular choice because it's stretchy and has a nice drape. Lightweight fabrics, like gauze, chiffon, or stretch lace are perfect for warm weather.

Protect your glasses from the elements with this easy eyeglass case, made from vinyl with a velvet lining. You can use this simple DIY project to make cases for your prescription glasses, reading glasses, and sunglasses. You can use any fabric you'd like on the outside, but make sure your lining fabric is soft.

If your looking for an easy scarf to make that is warm and soft, then look no further. In this tutorial Jen makes a football fleece scarf with fringe on each end to give it more flare. You can stitch the ends as well if that's what you prefer.

Drawstring backpacks come in handy especially when going to the beach. You can keep all your personal items in it while keeping your arms free! These are ideal for trips to the beach or even going to the gym. Better yet, they're easy and quick to make. In this tutorial, you'll learn how to make your own drawstring bag using Duralee fabric and piping for the drawstring.

This keychain, also known as a key fob, makes a great handmade gift. The hook makes it easy to add or remove key rings or you can attach it to a bag. You can adjust the measurements to make it the length you prefer. Make it longer if you want to be able to wrap it around your wrist easily, or make it shorter if you want a smaller key chain that's easy to find in your bag.

I work with fabric constantly so I need an apron with extra pockets for scissors and everything else I need. I also sometimes like wearing aprons at home. I'm very picky when it comes to aprons, I like them to be tough, minimalistic, and have good pocket options. Aprons I've purchased in the past have never measured up to what I need so it's time to put my sewing skills to the test. I created this project from a service industry style apron that I like.

I just learned how to sew, so I thought it would be good to share my first ever sewing project, a pencil pouch! This pouch is easy to make, and can be customized with different sizes and materials. Great for handmade gifts!

I'm very cautious with my top of the line laptop, I make sure it's well protected when it leaves the house. Thats why I made this super simple laptop sleeve to keep it safe from the elements. Ready to make your own? Grab your sewing kit and let's get to it!

Earbuds are a must when you're on the go but if you store them in your pocket, you're gonna have a bad time. This customizable earbud case is perfect for traveling and can also be used to store coins or other small objects.

Ditch the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary by crafting your very own fabric envelopes! These envelopes add a touch of warmth and personalization to your heartfelt messages and special surprises. Fabric envelopes not only stand out as unique gift packaging but also become treasured keepsakes for your loved ones. These red envelopes are perfect for Valentine's day!

When it comes to gift giving, I'm not great at wrapping with wrapping paper. Next time, I'll use these super simple reusable fabric gift bags. Ready to make some? Grab your stash and let's get to it!

Looking for the perfect compact handmade gifts to complete your list? No need to cry about it, these simple tissue holders are perfect for holding travel sized tissue packs. They're great for using up fabric scraps, and they fit nicely in seasonal stocking-like receptacles (hint hint). Try using an outdoor fabric like I did to make it weather resistant. Grab your gift list and let's get to it!