DIY make-up bag sewing tutorial / beginner sewing project

3 min read 1 month ago
Published on Jun 03, 2025 This response is partially generated with the help of AI. It may contain inaccuracies.

Introduction

In this DIY tutorial, we will guide you through the process of creating a stylish quilted make-up bag. This beginner-friendly sewing project requires no pattern and is perfect for those new to sewing. By the end, you'll have a functional and beautiful pouch that you can use or gift!

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you start sewing, collect all necessary materials. Here’s what you will need:

  • Fabric
    • Outside fabric: 32cm x 42cm
    • Inside fabric: 32cm x 42cm
  • Zipper: 30cm or longer
  • Batting: For quilting (same size as your fabric)
  • Sewing machine: With a standard foot
  • Pins: To hold the layers together
  • Scissors or rotary cutter: For cutting fabric
  • Iron: For pressing seams

Step 2: Prepare the Fabric

Make sure your fabric is clean and pressed. The preparation involves the following:

  1. Cut your outside and inside fabric to the specified dimensions (32cm x 42cm).
  2. Cut the batting to the same dimensions.
  3. Press all fabric pieces with an iron to remove any wrinkles.

Step 3: Layer the Materials

Layer your materials to prepare for quilting:

  1. Place the batting on a flat surface.
  2. Lay the outside fabric on top of the batting, right side up.
  3. Place the inside fabric on top of the outside fabric, right side down.
  4. Ensure all edges align and pin the layers together to keep them secure.

Step 4: Quilt the Layers

Quilting adds texture and stability to your bag:

  1. Using your sewing machine, sew straight lines across the fabric, spacing them however you like. A common approach is to sew every 5cm.
  2. Remove the pins as you sew to avoid damaging your machine.

Step 5: Attach the Zipper

Now it’s time to add the zipper:

  1. Lay the quilted fabric flat with the inside fabric facing up.
  2. Position the zipper along the top edge, aligning it with the raw edges.
  3. Pin the zipper in place.
  4. Using a zipper foot on your sewing machine, sew the zipper to the fabric.
  5. Repeat this step for the opposite side of the zipper with the outside fabric.

Step 6: Sew the Bag Sides

With the zipper attached, construct the sides of the bag:

  1. Fold the bag in half, aligning the edges.
  2. Pin the sides together, ensuring the zipper is partly open for turning later.
  3. Sew along the sides, leaving a seam allowance of about 1cm.

Step 7: Finish the Bag

Complete your make-up bag:

  1. Trim any excess fabric from the corners to reduce bulk.
  2. Turn the bag inside out through the zipper opening.
  3. Push out the corners for a neat finish.
  4. Press the bag lightly with an iron.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully made your own quilted make-up bag. This project is not only a great way to practice your sewing skills but also results in a practical item that you can use daily. Consider personalizing it with embellishments or different fabric combinations. Share your creations on social media and enjoy your new pouch!