10 Fun and Easy Sewing Projects to Try at Home
January 12, 2023
Sewing is one of those crafts that has been around for centuries and is still popular today. There’s something about the process of creating something from scratch that is both satisfying and rewarding. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there are plenty of fun and easy sewing projects that you can tackle right at home. From pillows and tote bags to clothing and accessories, there’s no limit to what you can create with a needle and thread. Not only is sewing a great way to express your creativity, but it’s also a practical skill that can save you money in the long run.
In this post, I’ll share 10 of our favorite fun and easy sewing projects that you can try at home, regardless of your skill level. So, grab your sewing machine and let’s get started!
1. Introduction
Sewing is not only a practical skill but also a creative outlet that allows us to express ourselves and create unique pieces. Whether you’re an experienced seamstress or just starting out, there are plenty of fun and easy sewing projects that you can try at home.
From simple home decor items to stylish clothing pieces, the possibilities are endless. In this blog post, we have compiled a list of 10 fun and easy sewing projects that you can try at home. These projects are perfect for beginners and will help you improve your sewing skills while creating something beautiful and functional. So, grab your sewing machine, some fabric, and let’s get started!
2. Choosing the Right Beginner Sewing Project
When it comes to choosing the right beginner sewing project, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. First, consider your skill level and what you feel comfortable tackling. If you’re completely new to sewing, you may want to start with something simple like a basic tote bag or pillowcase. These projects typically involve straight stitches and minimal shaping, making them a great way to get comfortable with your sewing machine and basic techniques.
Next, think about what you’ll actually use or enjoy making. There’s no point in choosing a project that doesn’t interest you or won’t be of practical use in your daily life. If you love to cook, for example, you might want to try making a simple apron or oven mitt. If you’re a pet owner, you could try your hand at sewing a cozy pet bed.
Another key consideration is the materials and tools required for each project. As a beginner, you may not have a fully stocked sewing kit, so look for projects that require only basic supplies like fabric, thread, and a few essential tools like scissors and pins. You don’t want to invest in a lot of expensive equipment until you’re sure that sewing is a hobby you’ll enjoy.
Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help or guidance if you need it. There are plenty of online tutorials, sewing classes, and helpful communities that can provide support and advice as you embark on your sewing journey. With a little patience and practice, you’ll be stitching up beautiful creations in no time.
3. Sewing Supplies You’ll Need
Before you start sewing, you’ll need to have a few things in your sewing kit to make sure your projects come out just right. Having the right tools can make all the difference in creating beautiful and functional items. Here are some sewing supplies you’ll need:
1. Fabric – Choose a fabric that is appropriate for your project. You can buy fabric at a fabric store or online. Make sure to wash and dry your fabric before using it to prevent any shrinkage.
2. Thread – Choose a thread that matches your fabric. You can also use contrasting thread for decorative purposes.
3. Sewing machine – A sewing machine will make your sewing projects easier and faster. You can buy a machine at a sewing store or online. Make sure to read the instructions carefully and practice before starting your project.
4. Needles – Choose needles that are appropriate for your fabric. For example, use a ballpoint needle for knit fabric and a sharp needle for woven fabric.
5. Scissors – You’ll need both fabric scissors and paper scissors. Fabric scissors should be sharp and used only for cutting fabric.
6. Pins – Use pins to hold your fabric pieces together before sewing. Choose pins with a flat head so they don’t get in the way of your sewing machine.
7. Measuring tape – A measuring tape is essential for measuring your fabric and making sure your project is the right size.
8. Iron – An iron will help you press your fabric and make sure your seams are flat.
With these sewing supplies, you’ll be ready to start your sewing projects and create beautiful and functional items for your home and wardrobe.
4. Easy Sewing Project #1: Reusable Fabric Bowl Covers
Reusable fabric bowl covers are not only practical, but they also add a touch of charm to your kitchen. They are perfect for covering leftovers, fruits, and vegetables, and they are a great alternative to plastic wrap. Plus, they are easy to make! All you need is some fabric scraps, elastic, and a sewing machine.
Start by measuring the diameter of your bowl and add 1-2 inches to that measurement. Cut a circle of fabric using this measurement. Next, cut a strip of fabric that is 2 inches wide and the same circumference as the bowl. Sew the strip of fabric to the circle of fabric, right sides together, leaving a small gap. Thread elastic through the gap, making sure it is tight enough to fit snugly around the bowl. Sew the gap closed and you’re done!
You can make these covers in a variety of fabrics to match your kitchen decor or even make seasonal covers for holidays. They are also a great gift idea for friends and family who love to cook. Not only are they environmentally friendly, but they are also a fun and easy sewing project to try at home.
5. Easy Sewing Project #2: Fabric Coasters
Fabric coasters are a quick and easy sewing project that can add a fun and practical touch to your home decor. To make these coasters, you will need fabric scraps, batting or felt, and a sewing machine.
First, cut your fabric into squares that measure about 5 inches by 5 inches. You can use a rotary cutter and cutting mat for precision, or simply use a pair of scissors and a ruler. Cut your batting or felt into squares that are the same size as your fabric squares.
Next, place one fabric square on top of one batting or felt square, right sides together. Sew around the edges of the square, leaving a small opening for turning. Trim the corners and turn the coaster right side out. Use a chopstick or other tool to push out the corners.
Once your coaster is turned right side out, press it with an iron to smooth out any wrinkles. Then, topstitch around the edge of the coaster, closing up the opening as you go. You can use a coordinating thread color or a contrasting color for a fun pop of color.
Repeat these steps to make a set of coasters in coordinating fabrics, or mix and match for a fun eclectic look. Fabric coasters are a great beginner sewing project, and they make great gifts too!
6. Easy Sewing Project #3: Super Simple Pillowcase
If you’re new to sewing, or just want a quick and easy project to try at home, making a pillowcase is a great place to start. This project is perfect for beginners, as it involves only straight stitching and minimal measuring. Plus, who doesn’t love a fresh new pillowcase to add to their bedding collection?
To begin, choose a fun and colorful fabric that will complement your bedroom decor. You’ll also need coordinating thread, scissors, and a sewing machine. Start by measuring your pillow to determine the size of your fabric pieces. You’ll need two pieces of fabric – one for the front of the pillowcase and one for the back – that are each a few inches larger than your pillow to allow for seam allowances.
Next, fold one of the short ends of each fabric piece over twice and sew a straight line to create a hem. Then, place the two fabric pieces right sides together and sew along the two long sides and the remaining short side, leaving the hemmed end open. Finally, turn the pillowcase right side out and insert your pillow.
If you’re feeling extra creative, you can also add some embellishments to your pillowcase, such as pom-pom trim, ribbon, or embroidery. The possibilities are endless, and you’ll have a beautiful new pillowcase in no time!
7. Easy Sewing Project #4: DIY Fabric Bookmarks
If you love to read, then you know how important bookmarks are. Not only do they keep your place in the book, but they can also be a stylish accessory to add to your reading experience. With this easy sewing project, you can create your own DIY fabric bookmarks in just a few simple steps.
To begin, gather some scrap fabric in your favorite colors and patterns. You can even use some old clothes or bed sheets that you’re not using anymore to upcycle them into something new and useful. Cut out rectangular pieces of fabric, around 2 inches wide and 8 inches long, and fold them in half. Sew the long edges together, leaving one end open, and then turn the fabric inside out.
Next, cut a piece of ribbon or elastic that is long enough to slide over the top of your book pages. Insert the ribbon or elastic into the open end of the fabric and sew it closed. You can even add some decorative touches, like buttons or beads, to make your bookmarks unique.
These DIY fabric bookmarks are not only practical but also make great gifts for the book lovers in your life. You can create multiple bookmarks in different colors and patterns to match different moods or book genres. With just a few simple materials and some basic sewing skills, you can create something both beautiful and functional.
8. Easy Sewing Project #5: Coffee Cup Sleeve
Coffee cup sleeves are a great way to add a fun and personalized touch to your morning cup of coffee. Plus, they’re reusable and eco-friendly! This easy sewing project can be completed in under 30 minutes and requires minimal materials. All you need is some scrap fabric, batting or felt, and a button or snap closure.
To get started, cut your fabric into a rectangle that measures approximately 9″ x 4″. Cut a piece of batting or felt to the same size and place it on top of the wrong side of your fabric. Fold the fabric in half lengthwise, right sides together, and sew along the long edge and one of the short edges using a 1/4″ seam allowance. Turn the sleeve right side out and topstitch along the two open edges.
To finish, add a button or snap closure to the two ends of the sleeve so that it can be wrapped around your cup. You can also add some embellishments, such as embroidery or applique, to make your coffee cup sleeve truly unique. With this fun and easy sewing project, you’ll have a stylish coffee cup sleeve that’s perfect for everyday use or as a thoughtful gift for your coffee-loving friends and family.
9. Easy Sewing Project #6: Reusable Shopping Bags
One of the most practical sewing projects to try at home is making reusable shopping bags. Not only are they eco-friendly, but they are also stylish and functional. Plus, making your own bags means you get to choose the fabric and pattern to match your personal style.
To create a reusable bag, start by selecting a durable fabric such as canvas or denim. You will need to cut two pieces of fabric to the same size, then sew them together on three sides. The fourth side will be left open for the bag’s opening. Add fabric handles to the top of the bag and you’re done.
If you want to get creative, you can add pockets to the inside or outside of the bag for storing smaller items or a water bottle. You can also add embellishments like fabric flowers or embroidery to make your bag unique.
Reusable shopping bags are not only great for grocery shopping but also for carrying books, gym clothes, or anything else you need to transport. So why not try making your own and add a touch of personal style to your shopping routine while also helping the environment?
10. Easy Sewing Project #7: DIY Infinity Scarf
Looking for a fun and easy sewing project that you can complete in a weekend? Why not try making your own infinity scarf? Not only is this accessory versatile and stylish, but it’s also incredibly easy to make!
To get started, all you need is some soft, cozy fabric (think flannel or fleece for the colder months, or cotton for spring and summer), a pair of fabric shears, and a sewing machine. Begin by cutting your fabric into a long, rectangular shape – the standard size for an infinity scarf is around 60 inches in length and 20 inches in width, but you can adjust these measurements to suit your preferences.
Next, fold the fabric in half lengthwise, with the right sides facing each other. Then, sew along the long edge, leaving a small gap at each end. Turn the fabric right side out through one of the gaps, and then sew the two ends of the scarf together, again leaving a small gap to turn it right side out again.
Finally, sew the two gaps closed, and your infinity scarf is complete! You can wear it long and loose, or double it up for a cozy, layered look. This easy sewing project is perfect for beginners, and you can customize it with different fabrics, colors, and patterns to create a unique, personalized accessory that you’ll love wearing all year round.
11. Easy Sewing Project #8: Felt Keychains
Felt keychains are a fun and easy sewing project that can be made in a variety of shapes and sizes. They are perfect for beginner sewers and can be customized to fit any personality or style.
To start, you will need some felt fabric in your desired colors, a keychain ring, and some embroidery floss. You can cut your felt into any shape you like, such as a heart, star, or animal shape.Next, use your embroidery floss to add some details to your keychain, such as eyes, a mouth, or other embellishments. You can also add some additional decorations, such as beads or sequins, to make your keychain even more unique.
Once you have finished decorating your felt keychain, simply attach it to a keychain ring and it is ready to use. These keychains make great gifts for friends and family or can be used to add a pop of color and personality to your own set of keys.
Overall, felt keychains are a fun and easy sewing project that anyone can try at home. They are perfect for using up small scraps of felt fabric and can be customized to fit any style or personality. So why not give this easy sewing project a try and see what unique keychains you can come up with?
12. Easy Sewing Project #9: Fabric Headbands
If you’re looking for a quick and easy sewing project that you can finish in no time, then fabric headbands are the perfect choice. Not only are they simple to make, but they’re also a stylish accessory that you can wear every day. Whether you want to add a pop of color to your outfit or keep your hair out of your face, fabric headbands are a great option.
To make a fabric headband, all you need is some fabric, elastic, and a sewing machine. Cut a strip of fabric that’s about 2 inches wide and 20 inches long. Fold the fabric in half lengthwise so that the right sides are facing each other. Sew along the long edge of the fabric, leaving a small opening at each end. Turn the fabric right side out and press it flat.
Cut a piece of elastic that’s about 4 inches long and thread it through one of the openings at the end of the fabric. Use a safety pin to help you guide the elastic through the fabric. When the elastic is all the way through, sew the two ends of the elastic together. Repeat the same process for the other end of the fabric.
Once you’re done, you’ll have a beautiful fabric headband that you can wear with any outfit. You can experiment with different fabrics and patterns to create a variety of headbands. These headbands also make great gifts for friends and family. So why not give this easy sewing project a try and see what kind of headbands you can create?
13. Easy Sewing Project #10: Upcycled T-Shirt Tote Bag
If you’re looking for a fun and easy sewing project that’s also environmentally friendly, then this upcycled t-shirt tote bag is perfect for you! All you need is an old t-shirt, scissors, and a sewing machine (or needle and thread if you prefer hand sewing).
First, lay the t-shirt flat and cut off the sleeves and neckline. Then, cut 2-3 inch strips along the bottom of the shirt. These strips will be used to create the fringe for the bag.
Next, turn the shirt inside out and sew the bottom of the shirt closed. Then, tie the strips together in double knots to create the fringe. You can also braid the fringe if you prefer a different look.
Finally, turn the bag right side out and you’re done!
This upcycled tote bag is perfect for carrying groceries, books, or anything else you need. Plus, it’s a great way to repurpose an old t-shirt and reduce waste. You can also customize the bag by using t-shirts with your favorite designs or colors. Give it a try and see how easy and fun upcycling can be!