Sewing a Stylish Cosmetic Bag - Step-by-Step

Tired of tossing all your cosmetics loosely into a bag, only to have everything jumbled and disorganized? Learning how to sew a cosmetic bag is a great beginner sewing project that solves this dilemma with a custom-sized pouch.

Crafting your own cosmetic case allows you to coordinate fabrics to your personal taste too. So let's get started!

 

Choosing Materials

You'll want fabrics that are:

Durable - Cosmetic bags get frequent use and need to withstand some wear. Canvas, denim and cotton blends are good choices.

Closable - Zippers allow you to securely contain items. Velcro and ties work too.

Washable - Spills happen! Select fabrics that can handle occasional washing.

Sturdy - Thicker fabrics lend structure. Add interfacing if fabric seems flimsy.

 

Taking Measurements

Determine what you need to carry in your bag so you can customize the size. Layout the items and measure around them, adding 1-2 inches for seam allowances. Standard sizes include:

Travel bag - 5" x 9"

Overnight bag - 7" x 10"

Large tote - 10" x 14"

Measure depth too if making a box-shaped bag.

 

Cutting Pieces

You'll need:

Exterior fabric - Cut 1 piece using your dimensions

Lining fabric - Cut 1 piece same size as exterior

Stabilizer - Cut 1 piece of iron-on interfacing to line exterior

 

Sewing Steps

Fuse stabilizer to wrong side of exterior following packaging directions

Align exterior and lining fabrics with right sides facing

Sew around all edges, leaving a 3-5 inch opening along one side

Clip corners and trim seam allowance to 1⁄4 inch

Pull exterior right side out through opening

Topstitch around top edges

Add desired closures - zippers, Velcro, buttons

 

Customizing Your Bag

Personalize your creation by adding:

Clear vinyl pockets to sort items

Mesh panels so contents are visible

Monogram with fabric paints or markers

Decorative ribbon ties for closure

Let your creativity run wild dreaming up ways to organize your cosmetics in your fabulous handmade bag!