Last Updated on September 19, 2023
Easy Sewing Projects for Kids: Sewing is not just a valuable life skill, but also a creative outlet that can provide hours of enjoyment for kids. Engaging in sewing projects helps children develop fine motor skills, enhance creativity, boost self-confidence, and cultivate patience.
10 Easy sewing projects for kids with DIY Tutorials
Whether your child is a sewing novice or already has some experience, these 10 easy sewing projects are perfect for kids to explore their creativity and develop their sewing abilities.
1. Felt Letter Keychains
Start with something simple and fun – felt Letter keychains! This project lets kids practice basic stitches while creating adorable keychains in various shapes and colors. From animals to emojis, the possibilities are endless.
These personalized keychains are a great way for kids to learn some basic sewing skills and an opportunity to express their creativity. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide on creating these adorable and functional felt letter keychains.
Materials You’ll Need
- 20-gauge wire (e.g., dollar store wire)
- Beads (A few different sizes)
- Pieces of felt in various colors
- Round form (e.g., marker)
- Wire tools (cutters and pliers)
- Sharpie or marker
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Keychain rings (split rings)
Step 1: Making the Letters
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- Start by printing out the letters you want to create. You can find these letters on the internet or draw them yourself.
- Cut a piece of wire for the letter you’re making, leaving a bit extra at the top for adding beads later. For example, if you’re making the letter “A,” bend the wire to resemble the letter, leaving a straight section at the top.
- Create the rounded form of the letter by bending the wire around a round marker or similar object. Make sure the shape is centered and matches the letter’s form.
- Bend the wire back on itself to secure the shape. Bend the wire ends flat and form the loops at the top of the letter.
- Clip off any excess wire, leaving enough to secure the shape.
Step 2: Making the Felt
- Trace the wire-formed letter onto a piece of felt using a sharpie. Leave a bit of extra space around the outline.
- Cut out two felt pieces of the letter shape, ensuring they’re the same size. Cut slightly outside the sharpie lines to maintain the wire’s shape.
- Apply hot glue generously along the wire outline of one felt piece.
- Quickly place the wire-formed felt piece onto the glue-covered felt, pressing down firmly. This will sandwich the wire between the two felt pieces.
- Allow the glue to dry.
Step 3: Trimming and Finishing
- Once the glue is dry, trim any excess felt around the wire outline using scissors. Be cautious not to cut the wire.
- If there are areas where the wire forms gaps, carefully use an X-Acto knife to cut the felt away, leaving a clean outline of the wire.
Step 4: Adding Beads
- Thread beads of different sizes onto the wire to embellish the keychain. Experiment with various bead patterns to add a personal touch.
- Use round pliers to create a loop at the top of the wire, securing the beads in place.
- Clip off any excess wire above the loop.
Step 5: Attaching the Keychain Ring
- Open a split ring keychain ring using pliers.
- Slide the loop at the top of the wire through the split ring.
- Close the split ring using pliers to secure the keychain in place.
And there you have it – your very own felt letter keychain! Using this simple sewing technique, you can create different letters, spell out names, or even make special messages.
2. Fabric Bookmark
Encourage your child’s love for reading by having them sew their own fabric bookmarks. This project introduces the concept of sewing straight lines and gives kids a functional item they can use daily.
These bookmarks are not only fun to make, but they’ll also mark your place in your favorite books. Let’s get started!
Materials You’ll Need
- Three pieces of fabric, each cut at 4 inches by 4 inches
- Three pieces of single-sided iron-on interfacing (e.g., Pellon Shape Flex SF101), each cut at 3.5 inches by 3.5 inches
- Scissors or rotary cutter
- Iron
- Sewing machine
- Pins
Step 1: Prepare the Interfacing
- Take one piece of interfacing and cut it along the diagonal to create two triangular pieces. These will give your bookmark some structure.
Step 2: Iron on the Interfacing
- Start with your feature fabric (the one you want to showcase) and fold it in half diagonally, wrong sides facing each other. Give it a finger press and then use the iron to press it.
- Open the fabric and place one piece of interfacing (rough side down) along the pressed line. Make sure there’s about a quarter-inch clearance from the edges.
- Press the interfacing onto the fabric, fold it in half again, and press once more.
Step 3: Prepare the Back and Front Fabric
- Take your back fabric (Fabric B) and place it with the right side facing up.
- Layer one piece of interfacing (rough side down) on the center of the fabric, leaving a quarter-inch seam allowance from the edges.
- Repeat the process for the front fabric (Fabric C).
Step 4: Layer the Fabrics
- Place your feature fabric (with interfacing) on top of the back fabric, aligning the edges.
- Finally, place the front fabric with interfacing on top of the others. Align all the edges.
Step 5: Pin and Sew
- Pin the layers together to keep them in place.
- Sew around the bookmark’s edges, leaving an opening on one of the sides where you only have the front and back fabric layers. This is where you’ll turn the bookmark right side out.
Step 6: Turn the Bookmark Right Side Out
- Trim the corners to reduce bulk, but be careful not to cut the stitches.
- Through the opening, gently pull the bookmark right side out. Use a point turner or a blunt tool to push out the corners for a clean finish.
Step 7: Press and Stitch
- Press the bookmark flat to make sure it’s neat and tidy.
- Close the opening by stitching along the edge, about 1/8 inch from the edge. This both secures the layers and adds a decorative touch.
Step 8: Trim and Finish
Trim any loose threads and give your bookmark a final press to make it look its best.
Step 9: Enjoy Your Handmade Bookmark
Congratulations! You’ve just created a delightful fabric bookmark. Slide it between the pages of your favorite book, and you’ll have a charming reminder of your creative endeavor.
Making fabric bookmarks is an enjoyable sewing project that’s perfect for kids who are just starting out. With simple materials and basic sewing skills, you can create these lovely bookmarks to mark your reading adventures.
3. Drawstring Bag
A drawstring bag is a fantastic beginner project that teaches kids how to sew basic seams and insert a casing for the drawstring. They can use these bags for storing small toys art supplies, or even as a gift bag for friends.
These bags are handy anywhere at home, from storing fruits for walks to organizing jewelry and crafts. Let’s dive in!
You’ll Need
- Fabric
- Portable Sewing machine
- Thread
- Scissors
- Heat-erasable pen
- Iron
- Ribbon or fabric strips
Steps
- Prep Your Fabric: Choose your fabric and prevent fraying by zigzagging or serge the edges.
- Mark the Openings: Fold fabric in half, mark half-inch openings on both sides, and an inch from the top using a heat-erasable pen.
- Sew It Up: Sew around the sides and bottom, leaving openings open. Backstitch at the start and end. You can straight stitch the bottom too.
- Press Openings: Iron open the seam allowances around the openings.
- Fold and Mark: Fold the top edge down three-quarters of an inch and press. This makes the openings face the right side.
- Make Ties: Cut one-inch-wide fabric strips, fold, press, and stitch. You’ll need two ties for each bag.
- Add Ties: Thread ties through openings, avoiding stitching over them.
- Sew Casing: Stitch along the edge of the folded top, securing ties and creating a channel for drawstrings.
- Finish Touches: Trim loose threads and knot tie ends.
Done! You’ve crafted your drawstring bag – awesome job! This project is not only quick but also loads of fun.
4. Simple Stuffed Animals
Help your child create their own stuffed animal pals. Start with basic shapes like circles or squares, and let them sew and stuff their creations. This project lets kids practice sewing curves and learn about stuffing and finishing.
Sewing stuffed animals can be a fun and rewarding activity for kids. In this guide, we’ll walk you through creating a basic stuffed elephant. So gather your materials and let’s get started!
Materials You’ll Need
- Furry fabric (gray-blue for body, lighter gray for details)
- Sewing machine
- Thread
- Sewing needle
- Pins
- Polyfill stuffing
- Plastic eyes with sockets
- Scissors
- Pattern template (drawn or printed)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pattern
Start by drawing or printing out the pattern for your stuffed elephant. Divide it into separate pieces, such as the head, body, ears, and legs. Ensure that you have the left and right sides for each body part.
Step 2: Cut the Fabric
Place the pattern pieces on the fabric, pin them in place, and cut out the shapes. Remember to cut mirrored pairs for body parts like ears and legs.
Step 3: Sew the Head
Sew the left and right sides of the head to the gusset (the piece that runs from the front of the face to the back of the head). Leave an opening at the neck area for turning the fabric right side out.
Step 4: Turn and Stuff
Turn the head right side out through the neck opening. Use polyfill stuffing to stuff the head, making sure to shape the trunk and head as desired.
Step 5: Sew the Ears
Pin the inner and outer ear pieces together and sew around the edges, leaving a small opening. Turn the ears right side out through the opening and then sew them onto the sides of the head.
Step 6: Sew the Body
Sew the legs to the body fabric, making sure they’re positioned correctly. Sew the front and back sides of the body together, leaving an opening near the neck.
Step 7: Turn and Stuff the Body
Turn the body right side out and stuff it with polyfill. Make sure to shape the body and legs as you go.
Step 8: Attach the Head
Insert the head into the body through the neck opening. Sew the head securely to the body, making sure the stitches are hidden.
Step 9: Add Eye
Attach the plastic eyes with sockets to the head using a sewing needle and thread. Make sure they’re securely in place.
Step 10: Finish the Stuffed Animal
Sew the opening in the neck closed, making sure all the stuffing is securely inside.
Congratulations, you’ve created a simple stuffed elephant! Remember that sewing is a skill that improves with practice, so don’t worry if your first attempt isn’t perfect.
5. Hand-Sewn Pillow
For older kids, a hand-sewn pillow is a wonderful project. They can choose their favorite fabric and learn how to sew two pieces together, leaving an opening for stuffing. This project teaches essential skills like turning fabric and closing seams.
We’ll hand-stitch the cover together for a fun and creative sewing project that’s perfect for kids. Let’s get started!
Sewing Supplies Needed
- Pillow form (choose a size that suits your preference)
- Fabric (approximately half a yard, depending on the size of the pillow)
- Scissors
- Straight pins
- Needles (John James long darners work well)
- Thread (matching color to your fabric)
- Knotting thread
Step 1: Pin Fabrics Together
- Place the front and back sides of your fabric together, right sides facing in.
- Pin the sides together, starting about 2 inches away from the corner where you’ll leave an opening for inserting the pillow form.
Step 2: Thread Needle
- Thread your needle with a double strand of thread (fold it in half and knot the loose ends together). Use a knotting technique to secure the thread.
Step 3: Hand Stitch Fabrics Together
- Begin stitching on the bottom edge about 2 inches away from the corner.
- Use a 1/2 inch seam allowance, sewing about 1/8 inch away from the fabric’s edge.
- Continue stitching along the sides until you reach the next corner, then pivot and sew up the next side.
- Keep sewing until you’re about 2 inches away from the starting point.
Step 4: Knot Thread
- Knot off the thread by taking a tiny stitch through the fabric, leaving a loop, and passing the needle through the loop. Repeat to ensure a secure knot.
Step 5: Clip Corners
- Carefully clip the four corners of the pillow cover at an angle, being cautious not to cut the stitches.
Step 6: Turn Pillow Cover Right Side Out
- Gently turn the pillow cover right side out through the opening.
Step 7: Insert Pillow Form
- Insert the pillow form, using a “karate chop” motion to ensure the corners are properly filled.
Step 8: Pin Opening Closed
- Fold the edges of the opening under by about 1/2 inch.
- Pin the opening closed, starting from the center and working your way outward.
Step 9: Hand Sew the Opening Closed
Hand sew the opening closed using a slip stitch or other preferred method. If you’re unfamiliar with hand sewing, you can watch our “How to Hand Sew a Pillow Closed” video for guidance.
This project is a great way to introduce kids to sewing and helps them develop valuable skills while creating a functional and stylish pillow.
6. Pot Holders
Introduce kids to sewing in layers with pot holders. They can select fabric patterns they like, layer them with insulating material, and sew around the edges. This project enhances sewing precision and exposes kids to working with multiple layers.
This method will have you whipping up pot holders in no time – no frustration required. Grab your supplies, and let’s dive into this fun and quick sewing project!
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Here’s what you’ll need for this project:
- Two fabric squares (8 to 8.5 inches for the top, 10.5 inches for the back)
- Two layers of cotton batting (or 1 layer of cotton batting and 1 layer of insulbrite)
- Sewing machine and thread
- Pins
- Iron
Step 2: Layer and Pin
Place your top fabric square on top of one layer of batting. Then, place the second layer of batting on top and finally, the back fabric square. Pin all the layers together to keep them in place.
Step 3: Quilting Stitches
Stitch through all the layers following a simple quilt stitch pattern. You can stitch from one corner to the opposite corner, ensuring you start from the back fabric’s edge. This stitching holds everything in place and prevents separation during washing.
Step 4: Fold and Press
Fold in the edges along two opposite sides of the top fabric square, aligning them with the edges of the back fabric. Press these folds with your iron.
Step 5: Stitch the Edges
Fold the edges over the top fabric and stitch close to the folded edge. Begin stitching from the bottom edge, going all the way up, and stop at the top edge. Repeat this step for both sides.
Step 6: Final Folds and Stitch
Fold the remaining two edges towards the top fabric, pressing them with your iron. Then, fold them over the top fabric again and pin if needed. Stitch along the folded edge, starting from the bottom and stopping at the top.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
Turn your pot holder over to reveal the neat edge. On the back, you’ll see that the folded edges are clean and well-hidden. You’ve successfully created a pot holder that looks great and is functional!
With this approach, you can easily create pot holders without the frustration of dealing with binding. Whether you’re using them in your own kitchen or gifting them to family and friends, these pot holders showcase your sewing skills in a fun and practical way.
7. Fabric Headbands
Let your child’s fashion creativity shine by making fabric headbands. They can sew a simple tube of fabric, turn it inside out, and add elastic for a comfortable fit. This project also introduces the concept of turning fabric right side out.
This is a two-step process that requires just a small piece of fabric and can be completed within five to ten minutes. Even if you don’t have a sewing machine, don’t worry – I guarantee you can still make this headband quickly. So, let’s get started!
Materials Needed
Step 1: Cutting and Sewing
- Take your fabric, which should measure 22 inches by 8 inches. Fold it in half with the right sides facing each other.
- Pin the fabric along the open sides to secure it in place.
- If you’re using a sewing machine, stitch along the open sides by sewing a straight line about half an inch from the edge. If you don’t have a sewing machine, you can also sew by hand using a simple running stitch.
Step 2: Turning and Stitching
- Turn the fabric right side out so that the seam is now on the inside. Press the fabric to make it neat and crisp.
- With the seam at the center on top, bring the two short ends of the fabric together.
- Move the top end slightly so it stops at the center, creating a loop at the top.
- Wrap one end around to the back and the other end around to the front. This forms the twisted knot effect of the headband.
- Secure the twisted knot in place by sewing it. If using a sewing machine, sew a straight line about half an inch from the end to secure the knot. If sewing by hand, use a running stitch to secure the knot.
Step 3: Finishing Touches
- After stitching, trim off any excess fabric to create a clean edge.
- If there’s a corner that might poke out, trim it to prevent poking through the fabric.
- Open up the headband, and that’s it! You’ve successfully created a stylish fabric headband in just a few simple steps.
This headband is incredibly versatile and can be made in various fabrics to match different outfits. It’s a fantastic project for kids to showcase their creativity and sewing skills.
8. Tote Bag
A tote bag project teaches kids how to sew side seams, attach handles, and finish edges. Tote bags are useful and can be customized with fabric markers, patches, or fabric paint.
I know, it might sound a bit complicated, but trust me, it’s easier than you think. So, grab your fabric, thread, and sewing machine, and let’s dive in!
Materials You’ll Need
- Two pieces of fabric (your choice of colors and patterns)
- Heavy-duty Sewing machine
- Thread
- Scissors
- Pins
- Iron
- Fabric marker or chalk
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1. Cutting the Fabric
Start by cutting two rectangles of fabric. The size depends on how big you want your tote bag to be. Remember, the two pieces should be the same size.
Step 2. Preparing the Fabric
Fold one piece of fabric in half, right sides facing each other. Pin the sides together if you’d like. This folded fabric will become the front and back of your tote bag.
Step 3. Sewing the Sides
Using your sewing machine, stitch along the sides of the fabric, about 1/2 inch from the edge. Don’t forget to backstitch at the beginning and end to secure your stitches.
Step 4. Pressing Seams
Open up your fabric and press the seams open with an iron. This step will make your tote bag look neat and professional.
Step 5. Creating the Bottom
Now, to give your tote bag some depth, fold the bottom corners so that the side seam aligns with the bottom seam, creating a triangle. Measure about 1-2 inches from the tip of the triangle and draw a line perpendicular to the seam. Sew along this line, then trim off the excess fabric. Repeat this step for the other corner.
Step 6. Reinforcing the Seams
To make your tote bag more durable, sew another line just outside the seam where you attached the triangles. This extra stitching will prevent the corners from unraveling over time.
Step 7. Attaching Handles
For the handles, cut two long strips of fabric. Fold each strip in half lengthwise and press with an iron. Then, open it up and fold each side towards the center crease, creating a handle shape. Press again. Finally, fold the strip in half lengthwise once more and press.
Step 8. Sewing the Handles
Position the handles on the inside of your tote bag, a few inches from the sides. Make sure the raw edges of the handles align with the top edge of the tote bag. Pin them in place. Sew the handles securely to the tote bag by stitching a rectangle and then an X shape within the rectangle. This stitching will make the handles extra strong.
Step 9. Finishing Touches
Fold the second piece of fabric in half, right sides facing each other, and sew the sides just like you did for the first piece. Leave the top open – this will be the lining for your tote bag.
Step 10. Inserting the Lining
Slide the lining over the outside of the tote bag so that the right sides are facing each other. Line up the top edges and the handles. Pin the top edges together.
Step 11. Stitching the Top
Sew around the top of the tote bag, leaving a small opening for turning. Trim any excess fabric and clip the corners to reduce bulk.
Step 12. Turning and Pressing
Carefully turn the tote bag right side out through the opening. Push out the corners gently with a blunt object, like a pencil or your finger. Press the top edge with an iron.
Step 13. Closing the Opening
Finally, hand-stitch the opening closed using an invisible stitch or a ladder stitch.
9. Decorative Pillowcase
Upgrade your child’s room decor with a decorative pillowcase they’ve sewn themselves. This project involves sewing straight lines and adding a fun touch to their personal space.
It’s a project that combines sewing skills with a pop of color, giving you a beautiful pillow to decorate your space. So, grab your fabric, cording, and bias cut strips, and let’s get started!
Materials You’ll Need
- Fabric
- Cording
- Bias cut strips of fabric
- Sewing machine
- Thread
- Pins
- Scissors
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare Your Fabric and Materials
Before you begin, make sure you have all your materials ready. Cut your fabric pieces according to the dimensions of your pillow form. You’ll need a front piece and two back pieces that overlap to create a secret opening.
Step 2. Sew the Piping as You Go
Unlike traditional piping, we’re going to sew the piping to the pillow in one step. Lay your cording inside a bias cut fabric strip and fold it over the cording. Start sewing in the middle of one side, leaving about a two-inch tail. Pin the piping in place to keep it secure.
Step 3. Set Up Your Sewing Machine
Switch to a zipper presser foot on your sewing machine. Adjust the needle position if needed, ensuring it’s close to the cording.
Step 4. Begin Sewing
Start sewing along the edge of the fabric strip, making sure the raw edge of the bias strip aligns with the raw edge of the fabric. As you sew, maintain the cording in the center and sew close to it. Remember to backstitch at the beginning.
Step 5. Handle Corners
When you approach a corner, stop about an inch or two before reaching it. Cut small slits into the bias strip to allow ease for turning corners smoothly. Pivot the fabric, keeping the cording centered, and continue sewing.
Step 6. Finish the Piping Ends
As you near the starting point, leave a few inches of piping extending beyond the fabric edge. Overlap the ends of the piping strips, then trim them so they fit seamlessly. Fold the fabric edges to encase the piping ends neatly.
Step 7. Complete Sewing
Continue sewing until you reach your starting point. Do a backstitch to secure the seam. Your front piece with the piping is now ready!
Step 8. Attach the Back Panels
Place the two back panels on top of the front piece, overlapping them to create an opening. Ensure the fabric’s print direction matches across all panels. Pin the panels in place, using pins to secure the overlap.
Step 9. Sew the Pillowcase Together
Sew around the edges of the pillowcase, using the same technique as with the piping. The zipper presser foot will help you sew close to the piping, even though it’s hidden between layers.
Step 10. Trim and Finish
Clip the corners of the pillowcase to reduce bulk. Turn the pillowcase right side out. Your pillowcase is now complete!
This project not only enhances your sewing skills but also adds a personalized touch to your living space. Now you have a beautiful pillowcase that’s sure to impress anyone who sees it.
10. Scrunchies
Scrunchies are back in style, and kids can easily sew their own colorful scrunchies. This project teaches gathering fabric, attaching elastic, and sewing in a circle.
These trendy accessories are perfect for adding a pop of color to your hair. Let’s get started:
Materials You’ll Need
- A piece of fabric measuring 5 by 26 inches
- 10 inches of quarter-inch-wide elastic
- Sewing machine or needle and Thread
- Bodkin or takeaway chopsticks (for inserting elastic)
- Scissors
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Fabric
- Cut a piece of fabric that measures 5 inches in width and 26 inches in length.
- Cut a piece of elastic measuring 10 inches.
Step 2: Stitch Short Ends
- Place the fabric pieces right sides together.
- Use a sewing machine or hand-sew with a half-inch seam allowance to stitch the short ends together. Remember to back-tack at the beginning and end.
Step 3: Press and Roll
- Open up the fabric and press the seam open with your fingers.
- Flip the fabric over and match the top edges together.
- Roll up the fabric as tightly and skinny as you can while keeping the top edges aligned.
Step 4: Stitch the Tube
- Match the bottom edges at the seam about an inch above it.
- Start stitching about an inch and a half above the seam, back-tacking to secure.
- Stitch down as far as you can, and when you get close to the beginning, leave a small opening (around two fingers wide).
Step 5: Insert Elastic
- Insert one end of the elastic through the opening of your bodkin or chopsticks.
- Slide the elastic down the narrow end to keep it in place.
- Insert the bodkin or chopstick with the elastic into the tube, pushing the fabric down as much as possible.
- Release the elastic and remove the bodkin or chopstick.
Step 6: Secure Elastic
Bring the ends of the elastic together and tie them in a knot, just like the end of a balloon. Make sure it’s nice and tight, leaving about an inch of elastic on each end.
Step 7: Turn Right Side Out
Find the opening in the fabric and gently pull the fabric and elastic through, turning the tube right side out.
Step 8: Finish the Scrunchie
To neatly close the opening, you can either hand-sew it using slip stitch for a polished look or, for speed, simply bring the folds together and edge-stitch it closed with your sewing machine.
And there you have it – your very own super easy scrunchie! You can make a whole bunch of these in different colors and fabrics to match your outfits.
Conclusion
Sewing projects for kids offer more than just a creative outlet – they provide opportunities for skill-building, problem-solving, and self-expression.
These 10 easy sewing projects cater to different skill levels and interests, making them perfect for introducing kids to the wonderful world of sewing. As they complete each project, they’ll have tangible items to cherish, a sense of accomplishment, and a foundation for further sewing adventures.
So, gather some fabric, needles, and threads, and embark on a journey of stitching joy with your young ones.
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| Heather Boyd Wire | Thoughtful Creativity – CRAFT, SEW, DIY | Bellamena | Sew Often | Dami Dimension | MADE Everyday | Notches Sewing |
I Like to write and read on fashion, may be that’s why “Fashion says “me too” style says “only me”
