10 Easy Sewing Projects for Kids in 2024 – (DIY Tutorial)

Last Updated on February 28, 2024

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

Step 1: Making the Letters

Step 2: Making the Felt

Step 3: Trimming and Finishing

Step 4: Adding Beads

Step 5: Attaching the Keychain Ring

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

Step 1: Prepare the Interfacing

Step 2: Iron on the Interfacing

Step 3: Prepare the Back and Front Fabric

Step 4: Layer the Fabrics

Step 5: Pin and Sew

Step 6: Turn the Bookmark Right Side Out

Step 7: Press and Stitch

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

Steps

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

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

Step 1: Pin Fabrics Together

Step 2: Thread Needle

Step 3: Hand Stitch Fabrics Together

Step 4: Knot Thread

Step 5: Clip Corners

Step 6: Turn Pillow Cover Right Side Out

Step 7: Insert Pillow Form

Step 8: Pin Opening Closed

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:

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

Step 2: Turning and Stitching

Step 3: Finishing Touches

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

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

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

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Fabric

Step 2: Stitch Short Ends

Step 3: Press and Roll

Step 4: Stitch the Tube

Step 5: Insert Elastic

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.

Tersia Jager

I Like to write and read on fashion, may be that’s why “Fashion says “me too” style says “only me”