How to Make a Zippered Cosmetic Bag

Making your own zippered cosmetic bag is a fun and easy sewing project. These bags are great for storing makeup, toiletries, art supplies, electronics cords, and more. With just some basic sewing supplies and skills, you can create a custom bag to match your style.

Choose Your Fabric and Zipper

When making a zippered bag, it's important to select durable fabrics that will hold up well over time. Cotton quilting fabrics are a popular choice as they come in endless colorful prints and patterns. You'll also want to pick a zipper in a coordinating color. Metal zippers tend to be more heavy-duty than plastic ones. Make sure to get a zipper that's at least as long as the top edge of your bag.

Measure and Cut Out Fabric Pieces

You will need two rectangles for the exterior and two for the lining. The sizes needed will depend on the desired finished dimensions, but a good standard size is 14 inches by 10 inches. Add 1/2 inch seam allowances all around when cutting. You'll also need two strips for the zipper tabs, cut to 2 inches by 5 inches.

Sew the Exterior Pieces

With right sides facing, stitch the exterior rectangles together along both 10-inch sides, leaving the 14-inch top edge open. Trim seam allowances, turn right side out, and press flat.

Install the Zipper

Unzip the zipper and center it along the top edge, right side down. The zipper tabs should extend just a bit beyond each end. Pin in place then stitch close to zipper teeth to attach. For a clean finish, stitch close to the outer edges of the zipper tape.

Assemble the Lining

Repeat steps 2 and 3 with the lining fabric rectangles. Leave a 4-inch opening along one side for turning the bag right side out after sewing.

Attach Exterior and Lining

With right sides together, match exterior and lining pieces, nestling seams and zipper tabs. Pin then stitch all around the top edge with a 1⁄2 inch seam.

Finish the Cosmetic Bag

Turn the bag right side out through the opening in the lining. Push corners out fully and press seams. Topstitch around the top edge of the bag and stitch the lining opening closed. Fill with your belongings and enjoy your custom cosmetic bag!