This small zippered bag is a fun and practical sewing project that works well for beginners and experienced sewists alike. It’s a great size for organizing small items like pens, toiletries, cords, cosmetics, sewing or craft supplies, and more.
You can sew this project with just 7 simple steps. The best part is, once you understand the basics it’s easy to customize with different fabrics, dimensions and features.
The finished bag is compact, reusable, and sturdy enough for everyday use. I’ll post the tutorial here and finish with some tips on how to customize it and make it uniquely yours.
Finished Size
The completed bag measures approximately 9 inches wide by 5½ inches tall, not including the handle. You can easily adjust the width or height if you prefer a larger pouch.
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Materials Needed
- 2 outer fabric pieces, 10″ × 6½″ (See suggestions below)
- 2 lining fabric pieces, 10″ × 6½″ (See suggestions below)
- 2 small fabric tabs, 1″ × 2½″
- 1 fabric strip for handle, 9″ × 4″
- Zipper at least 9″ long. A plastic zipper is easiest for beginnners.
- All seams are sewn with a ½-inch seam allowance unless stated otherwise.
- Thread
- Sewing machine
- Zipper foot
- Iron and basic sewing tools
Fabric Suggestions
Outer Fabric
- Quilting cotton is easy to sew and works well for most uses.
- Canvas or cotton duck creates a sturdier bag for heavier items.
- Lightweight denim also works; use a denim needle if needed.
Lining Fabric
- Quilting cotton keeps the bag soft and flexible.
- Cotton twill or lightweight canvas adds structure and durability.
- Laminated cotton or PUL works well for travel or swim bags.
Optional Structure
- Fusible fleece creates a soft and padded bag suitable for glasses or electronics.
- Lightweight fusible interfacing adds body without stiffness.
Step 1: Prepare the Zipper
Place one small fabric tab at one end of the zipper with right sides together. Stitch across the zipper near the edge of the tab. Fold the fabric away from the zipper and press flat.
Measure the zipper to the desired length and attach the second tab at the opposite end in the same way. Trim away any excess zipper length beyond the fabric tabs.
Step 2: Attach the Zipper to the Bag Pieces
Lay one outer fabric piece right-side up. Place the zipper on top with the zipper facing down and the raw edges aligned.
Add one lining piece on top, right-side down, aligning all edges. Sew along the zipper using a zipper foot.
Repeat for the remaining outer and lining pieces on the opposite side of the zipper.
Step 3: Topstitch Along the Zipper
Press the fabric away from the zipper on both sides. Topstitch close to the zipper to keep the lining from rolling into the opening and to give the bag a clean finish.
Step 4: Make the Handle
Fold the handle strip in half lengthwise and press. Open it, fold both long edges toward the center, and press again. Fold in half once more and topstitch along both long edges.
Fold the handle in half and pin it to one outer fabric piece just below the zipper. Stitch in place securely.
Step 5: Assemble the Bag
Open the zipper halfway. Bring the outer pieces together with right sides facing, and do the same with the lining pieces. Pin all around.
Sew around the entire bag, leaving a 3-inch opening along the bottom of the lining for turning.
Step 6: Box the Corners
At each corner, pinch the fabric so the side seam meets the bottom seam. Measure about 2 inches across and mark a straight line. Stitch along the line and trim away the excess fabric.
Repeat for all four corners.
Step 7: Flip and Finish
Flip the bag right-side out through the opening in the lining. Push the corners back out neatly. Stitch the lining opening closed, then tuck the lining down into the bag.
Your mini zippered bag is finished and ready to use!
Tips and Variations
Now that you’re comfortable with the basic steps, you can easily modify the design to create unique variations.
Size and Shape Adjustments
- Increase the width or height to create a pencil pouch, cosmetic bag, or small project bag.
- For a flatter bag, skip boxing the corners or reduce the corner measurement to 1½ inches.
Fabric Choices
- Quilting cotton is easy to sew and works well for everyday use.
- Canvas or cotton twill creates a sturdier bag but may require a denim needle.
- Using contrasting fabric for the lining adds subtle style and can make it easier, or harder, to see what’s inside.
Lining Options
- For travel or swim use, line the bag with waterproof fabric such as PUL or laminated cotton.
- If using waterproof fabric, lengthen your stitch slightly to reduce needle holes.
Handle Alternatives
- Replace the fabric handle with cotton webbing for a quick, durable option.
- Skip the handle entirely for a cleaner, pouch-style bag.
- Turn the handle into a wrist strap by lengthening it to 10–12 inches.
Zipper Tips
- A longer zipper is easier to install and can be trimmed to size.
- Plastic zippers are easier to sew through than metal zippers for beginners.
- If the zipper feels bulky at the ends, trim excess fabric and press well before sewing.
Adding Structure
- Lightweight fusible interfacing can be added to the outer fabric for a more structured bag.
- Fusible fleece creates a soft, padded pouch that works well for electronics or glasses.
Beginner-Friendly Improvements
- Use clips instead of pins when sewing near the zipper.
- Press after each step for more accurate seams and a neater finish.
- Open the zipper halfway before assembling the bag so it can be turned right-side out easily.