Zip It Up: Mastering the Art of Sewing a Makeup Bag with a Zipper

Are you tired of constantly losing your makeup products in your purse or struggling to keep them organized? Look no further, because today we are going to teach you how to make a stylish and functional makeup bag with a zipper. Not only will this DIY project save you time and money, but it will also allow you to customize the size, design, and fabrics to your own personal style. Whether you are an experienced seamstress or just starting out with sewing, this step-by-step guide will have you confidently sewing your own makeup bags in no time. Get ready to elevate your makeup organization game with our tutorial on how to sew a makeup bag with zipper.

Sewing your own makeup bag with a zipper is a great way to not only save money, but also customize it to your exact preferences. With just a few materials and some basic sewing skills, you can create a durable and stylish makeup bag that will last for years to come. In this guide, we’ll provide you with detailed instructions on how to sew a makeup bag with zipper, along with tips and tricks to make the process easier. So grab your sewing kit and let’s get started!

Materials Needed

To sew a makeup bag with zipper, you’ll need the following materials:

1. Fabric – Choose a fabric of your choice in an appropriate weight. A medium-weight cotton fabric is recommended for beginners.

2. Lining fabric – You’ll need about half a yard of lining fabric for the inner layer of the bag.

3. Zipper – Choose a zipper measuring at least 12 inches in length for a standard-sized makeup bag.

4. Sewing machine – While it is possible to sew the bag by hand, using a sewing machine will make the process faster and more efficient.

5. Thread – Use thread that matches or complements your fabric color.

6. Pins – These will come in handy when securing the fabric layers together before sewing.

7. Fabric scissors – Sharp scissors are essential for cutting through multiple layers of fabric.

8. Ruler or measuring tape – This will help you achieve straight and precise measurements while cutting your fabric pieces.

9. Iron – Pressing your fabric at each step will result in crisp and clean seams.

10. Zipper foot attachment (optional) – If you have one, this attachment can help you sew close to the zipper teeth without any difficulty.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to sew your own makeup bag with zipper:

Step 1: Prep Your Fabric

Start by washing and ironing your fabric to get rid of any wrinkles. This will allow for smoother sewing and a neater finished product. Once your fabric is ready, cut the following pieces:

-2 pieces of outer fabric measuring 10 x 18 inches for the main body of the bag
-2 pieces of lining fabric measuring 10 x 18 inches for the inner layer of the bag
-2 pieces of outer fabric measuring 1.5 x 4 inches for the zipper tabs
-2 pieces of interfacing measuring 10 x 18 inches (optional) – This provides added stability to your bag.

Step 2: Attach Interfacing (optional)

If you’re using interfacing, fuse it to the wrong side of your outer fabric pieces following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 3: Make Zipper Tabs

Take the two small fabric pieces for zipper tabs and fold them in half lengthwise with right sides together. Sew along one short edge and down the long edge, leaving a small opening to turn it right side out. Trim excess seam allowance and turn inside out. Press flat and topstitch both long edges. Repeat for both zipper tabs.

Step 4: Prepare Your Zipper

Place your zipper on top of one outer fabric piece with right sides facing each other. Position one zipper tab on each end of the zipper teeth, sandwiching it between the zipper and outer fabric piece. Sew in place using a zipper foot if available.

Repeat on the other side using the remaining outer fabric piece.

Step 5: Assemble Main Body Piece

Place both outer fabric pieces with right sides together, making sure that they match up at all edges. Pin in place and sew along three sides, leaving one short side (the bottom of the bag) open. Do not sew over the zipper ends, as this will make it difficult to open and close the zipper.

Repeat for lining fabric, but this time leave a 3-4 inch opening at the bottom for turning.

Step 6: Box the Corners

To give your makeup bag some depth, you’ll need to box the corners. With the bag still inside out, pull each corner away from the seam and align the side and bottom seams together. Measure 1.5 inches from the tip of the corner and mark with a pencil or chalk. Sew along this line and trim off excess fabric.

Step 7: Finish Your Bag

Turn your outer fabric piece right side out and insert it into the lining with wrong sides facing each other. Make sure that all corners are matching up correctly. Pin in place along the top edge and sew all around, making sure to catch both layers in your seam.

Pull your bag through the opening in your lining and hand stitch it closed using a slip stitch or ladder stitch. Push lining into outer fabric piece and press well.

Your beautiful makeup bag with zipper is now complete!

Tips to Make Sewing

Materials You Will Need

To successfully sew a makeup bag with a zipper, you will need several materials to get started. These include:

A fabric of your choice
A zipper (preferably a longer one so you can easily open and close the bag)
Thread in matching color
A pair of scissors
Straight pins
Ruler or measuring tape
Fabric marking pen or chalk
Sewing machine (optional but recommended for faster and neater stitches)

Fabric Options

When it comes to choosing the fabric for your makeup bag, there are endless options. You can choose from cotton, linen, canvas, or even leather depending on the look and durability you want for your bag. It’s important to consider the weight and thickness of the fabric as it will affect the functionality of your makeup bag. Lighter fabrics may not hold their shape well while heavier fabrics may be difficult to work with.

Pick The Right Zipper

The type of zipper you use can make or break your makeup bag project. A polyester coil zipper is recommended for sewing a makeup bag with a zipper as they are flexible, durable and come in many different colors. Secondly, you’ll want a longer zipper (at least an inch longer than your fabric width) for easy opening and closing of your bag without any strain.

Cut Out Your Fabric Pieces With Care

After selecting your desired fabric, the next step is to cut out the pieces needed to create your makeup bag. Make sure to lay out your fabric on a flat surface with no wrinkles before cutting. You’ll need two rectangles of equal size for the front and back of your bag, as well as two smaller rectangles for the lining, and two more rectangles for the inside pocket. Use a ruler or measuring tape to ensure accurate measurements and mark them with a fabric pen or chalk before cutting. Remember to always cut slightly larger than your required sizes to allow for seam allowance.

Prepare The Zipper

With your fabric pieces ready, it’s time to prepare the zipper for sewing. Take one of your main fabric pieces and place it right side up on your work surface. Then, place the zipper face down on top of the fabric with its edges aligned with the raw edge of the fabric. If using a sewing machine, pin the zipper in place with straight pins to secure it before sewing. If hand stitching, you can use fabric or embroidery tape instead.

Sewing The Zipper

With everything in place, it’s now time to stitch your zipper onto your main fabric piece. Start by stitching along one side of the zipper using a zipper foot on your sewing machine if available. Make sure to sew close to the teeth but avoid sewing over them as this can cause difficulty when opening and closing the zipper. If hand stitching, use small, neat stitches and make sure they are evenly spaced out.

Adding The Lining And Pocket

After successfully sewing your zipper onto one main fabric piece, it’s now time to add in the lining and pocket. Start by laying out one of your lining pieces right side up on top of your main piece with the sewn zipper facing down. Pin all three layers together before stitching around three sides (leaving one short edge open) using either a regular or an invisible stitch method depending on your preference.

Next is adding in a pocket on either side of the lining fabric by simply folding each inner pocket rectangle in half (right sides together) and sewing around the edges, leaving a small gap for turning. Once both pockets are stitched, turn them inside out and press with an iron to create a professional look. Then place them in the desired position on the lining piece and topstitch around the edges to secure them.

Finishing Your Makeup Bag

With your main fabric, lining, zipper, and pockets all attached together, it’s time to finish your makeup bag. Start by placing both main fabric pieces right sides together and stitch around three sides leaving one short edge open (align this open edge with the unsewn short edge of your lining). Make sure to start at the edge of the zipper and end at the bottom of your lining.

To give your bag a flat bottom, take each corner and pinch it together to form a triangle shape. Measure about an inch from the tip and sew across this point to create a flat base for your bag. Trim any excess fabric before carefully turning your bag inside out through the opening in the lining. Finally, sew or hand stitch the remaining opening in your lining closed.

Congratulations! You have successfully completed sewing your very own makeup bag with a zipper. This is not only a practical item but also allows for personalization

Q: What materials are needed to sew a makeup bag with zipper?

A: You will need fabric, thread, a zipper, scissors, and a sewing machine (optional).

Q: How long does it take to sew a makeup bag with zipper?

A: The time it takes to sew a makeup bag with zipper will vary depending on your sewing skills and experience. However, on average, it can take around 1-2 hours.

Q: Do I need any specific sewing skills to sew a makeup bag with zipper?

A: No, you do not need any specific sewing skills. Basic sewing knowledge and techniques are sufficient in order to complete this project.

Q: Can I hand-sew a makeup bag with zipper?

A: Yes, you can hand-sew a makeup bag with zipper if you do not have access to a sewing machine. However, it may take longer and the results may not be as neat as using a machine.

Q: How do I attach the zipper when sewing a makeup bag?

A: To attach the zipper in your makeup bag, use pins or fabric clips to hold it in place first before sewing. You can also use fabric glue for extra security before stitching.

Q: Can I customize the size of my makeup bag when following instructions on how to sew one?

A: Yes, you can customize the size of your makeup bag according to your needs by adjusting the measurements before cutting the fabric pieces.

In conclusion, sewing a makeup bag with a zipper may seem like a daunting task, but with the right steps and techniques, it can be a fun and rewarding project. From choosing the right materials to mastering the zipper installation, each step plays a crucial role in creating a functional and stylish makeup bag. It is important to always take your time and pay attention to details when sewing, as this will result in a high-quality and durable bag. Additionally, measuring and cutting accurately, as well as using proper stitching techniques will ensure that your makeup bag turns out exactly as you envisioned.

Furthermore, this process of sewing a makeup bag provides not only practical use but also allows for creativity and personalization. By selecting fabrics that reflect your personal style or adding embellishments such as embroidery or appliques, you can create a truly unique and one-of-a-kind makeup bag.

Through this project, you have learned the fundamental skills of sewing such as zippers installation, fabric cutting, measuring accurately, and stitching techniques. These skills can be applied to other sewing projects in the future, which makes learning how to sew a makeup bag with a zipper not only enjoyable but also beneficial in developing your overall sewing skills.

In conclusion, creating your own makeup bag is a fun and cost-effective way to add functionality

Author Profile

Jill Nammar

My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.