Buy and download thousands of patterns and projects to make at home, and receive craft tips and advice in your email

    How to make a pencil case

    As seen in Cross Stitcher

    Follow our tutorial for how to make a zip-up bag - perfect for DIY pencil cases!

    Scroll down this page to see our free tutorial for how to make a simple zip-up bag - perfect for the start of a new school term! This project is a free taster from our Bookworm gifts cross stitch patterns set - so it includes instructions for how to turn cross stitched pieces of fabric into a pencil case - but you can also use it to make a plain pencil case from any patterned fabric you like!

    You will need: 

    • 1 x rectangle of fabric for the front of your case* (you could use linen, featuring a cross stitch design of  your choice, for this)
    • 1 x rectangle of 'backing' fabric - for the back of your case*
    • 2 x rectangles of 'lining' fabric.*
    • Sewing machine with zip foot
    • Zip
    • Pins

    * All four rectangles can be any size you like but just make sure they are each cut to measure exactly the same measurements.

    How to make a zip bag pencil case step 1

    Step 1

    Cut your front piece of fabric, backing piece and two lining pieces to the same size. Lay a lining piece face up, with the zip on top and your front face down on top of that.
    How to make a zip bag pencil case step 2

    Step 2

    Pin together and sew along the top edge of the zip, using a zipper foot on your sewing machine. Open out and repeat, attaching a backing piece and lining piece to the other side of the zip.
    How to make a zip bag pencil case step 3

    Step 3

    Once both sides are attached your bag will look like the above image. Press the seams flat with an iron and open the zip to allow for turning in the next step.
    How to make a zip bag pencil case step 4

    Step 4

    Refold with lining pieces on one side and front and backing pieces on the other. Pin and sew, leaving an opening. Turn, slip stitch and push the lining inside.
    Login or register to post comments