How to Make a Lined Cosmetic Bag with Zipper

Making your own lined cosmetic bag with a zipper is an easy and fun sewing project. With some basic sewing supplies and skills, you can create a custom bag perfect for carrying makeup, toiletries, art supplies, or anything else you need to organize and transport.

Choose Your Fabric and Lining

When making a lined bag, you'll need two coordinating fabrics - a fashion fabric for the outside of the bag and a lining fabric that will be seen inside the bag. Good fabric choices for the exterior include cotton, canvas, denim, or even an upholstery weight fabric. The lining can be a lightweight cotton, polyester, or even a fun print. Make sure to pick fabrics that are easy to sew and durable enough for regular use.

Take Accurate Measurements

Measure twice and cut once! Before cutting out your fabric, carefully measure and mark the dimensions you need for each pattern piece. Standard sizes for cosmetic bags range from about 7" x 5" up to 10" x 7", but you can customize it to any size you like. Just be sure to measure the zipper length needed once the outer dimensions are set.

Prepare Your Pattern Pieces

The main pattern pieces you will need include:

Exterior bag (cut 2) - Cut two pieces of fashion fabric using your measurements

Lining (cut 2) - Cut two pieces of lining fabric the same size as exterior

Zipper tabs (cut 2) - Cut two long narrow strips for enclosing zipper

Install the Zipper

Sewing in the zipper may seem tricky, but just take it slow. First, pin the zipper face down between the right sides of the exterior, using the zipper tabs to enclose the raw edges. Sew this in place close to zipper teeth. Repeat with lining pieces, sewing the lower edge of the zipper in place.

Attach Exterior and Lining

With right sides together, match up exterior and lining pieces, pinning along the sides and bottom raw edge. Sew all the way around leaving a small opening. Turn bag right side out through the opening then stitch the hole closed. Push lining inside bag and press seams.

Add Finishing Touches

To give your bag a polished look, consider adding details like a wrist strap, decorative trim or buttons, appliqués or embroidered designs, customized labels, or even a tassel zipper pull. Get creative with embellishments to make it your own!

With the right fabrics and a bit of sewing skill, you can create cute custom cosmetic bags to coordinate with any outfit or décor. Show off your sewing abilities by making these as gifts for family and friends too!