Fabric & Sewing How-To Guides

Lace maxi skirts are great for spring and summer because they're light and breathable. This maxi skirt has a stretchy spandex lining, making it easy to wear. You could also make a skirt like this for colder weather if you extend the length of the lining.

Gauze scarves like this one are perfect for spring because they're lightweight and versatile. You can also wear it as a head wrap.

Tulle skirts aren't just for kids! Today I'm going to show you how to make an adult-size tulle skirt that involves no sewing. You can make it a solid color or use alternating colors. This skirt uses a ribbon around the waist, but you can also use elastic.

Handbags and pocketbooks can be expensive, so why not make your own? If you're not a fan of leather, vinyl is a great alternative because it's less expensive and easier to work with. This handbag has pockets on the front and back, great for easy access to your phone and keys. There's also plenty of interior storage space including a zipper compartment and interior pockets.

Messenger bags are great for any and all organizational needs, especially school supplies like notebooks, pens/pencils, and laptops. Here we used two 100% cotton fabrics, one for the outside and one for parts of the lining, but you can use just one fabric for both if you prefer.

Rain ponchos are great to have to help protect your hair and clothing from the rain. The one I'm going to make is a short poncho with a hood. Nylon is the best to use because it's lightweight and waterproof. You can also use a lightweight clear plastic or even an old shower curtain.

Workout tanks are easy to make and comfortable to move in while exercising. I'm going to show you how to make a muscle tank top that is breathable when working out. Cotton jersey is best to use because of its stretch and flexibility. You can leave the back as is or gather together like I did for more of a design.

There are many different styles for making ponchos. I'm going to make a winter poncho with a cowl neck that can also be worn as a hood. Fleece works well because it's soft and warm making it very cozy to wear.

This infinity dress is versatile and can be worn many ways. The one I'm going to make is a size medium. Spandex or jersey knit work best because of its stretch. You can wear this dress all year round depending on how you style it. It's also super comfy!

A jewelry organizer is a great way to hold all your jewelry together in one place without it all getting tangled. This quick and easy jewelry organizer is made from an old frame. The lace is for earrings, and the ribbon is for bracelets and necklaces. You can hang this frame or lean it up against a wall.

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.

This high waist skirt has pleats on the front and the back and has a zipper on the side. To keep it is simple there is no interfacing or lining. You can wear this type of skirt all year round and you can also use hook and eye closures instead of a zipper.

At concerts and other events, or even just running errands, I found myself constantly wanting to ditch my large handbag in favor of something that would just carry the essentials like my cell phone, a credit card, ID and maybe some cash. I couldn't find what I wanted, so why not make my own! This phone wristlet has a simple design that's a good project for someone looking to get into bag making. No zippers, just two pockets and a snap. The sewing pattern is free to download and try out for yourself!

This envelope clutch is the perfect size for an iPad or tablet. It has a magnetic snap closure, a soft felt lining, and a zipper compartment on the back for cords and accessories. You can use a medium weight drapery fabric, a heavier upholstery fabric, or even vinyl as the outer fabric. The wool felt lining provides cushioning, or a simple broadcloth is another option for the lining, especially if you're not using it as a tablet case. The envelope clutch is sturdy and holds its shape well thanks to a heavy interfacing.

Make a simple tank top style bathing suit cover-up out of jersey knit fabric. You can also use lightweight fabrics like cotton batiste, or gauze that are breathable and comfortable. These are the fabrics you'll want on your body in the hot summer months. If you're feeling fancy or want a fun print, chiffon or challis are great options as well.

The lace is stretchy so it forms to the body well and is comfortable and easy to move in (especially in the arms). The built-in lining covers the torso from the chest down, leaving the shoulders, upper chest, and upper back sheer. Check out the step-by-step tutorial below to see how to make this blouse! You can use raschel lace if you want a more structured look. If you're using a stretch fabric, always use a stretch lining.

Glitz Sequin fabrics are stunning and stretchier than you may think. Because of their stretch, it makes it a lot easier to design and sew fitted garments like this high-waist pencil sequin skirt. With fabrics that are stretchy, you always have to line them with a stretch lining so both fabrics stretch together and don't tear. In this case, I chose a stretch charmeuse fabric because it's a little fancier than a spandex or jersey knit, but both of those would work too.

These three different style head wraps are made out of jersey knit fabric and are easy to make. You can mix and match colors and prints for a fun look. Jersey knit is the best fabric to use for a great stretch.

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.

Racer back tank tops are usually made out of cotton jersey and are a great item to wear under blouses or on its own. In this tutorial I will show you how to create your own racer back tank top from scratch. Learn how to make your own racer back tank top that can be worn by itself, with a scarf, or under a cardigan for different looks.

Learn how to make a boxed pencil pouch with this easy step-by-step sewing tutorial. This beginner-friendly project is perfect for organizing pens, pencils, makeup, craft supplies, and more.

Follow along with Cameron as he whips up one of his favorite sewing projects, a denim wallet. These wallets can be customized with different inner linings and outer accessories like patches.

Today I'm going to talk about a bag I made to store my knitting projects. I did so by modifying a pattern for a pillowcase that I learned in my sewing class. I then added buttonholes for a drawstring. This project features encased seams, which means the raw edges of the seams will not be visible. I like using this so that the threads of the fabric don't get tangled with the yarn and it has a smooth finish inside.

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!