Simple, Stylish, and Perfect for Gifts
Keeping makeup organized is easier when you sew your own bags. They’re customizable, beginner-friendly, and ideal for using fabric scraps or leftover quilt cotton. In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to sew a lined makeup bag with a zipper—perfect for travel, purses, or daily essentials.
Why Sew Your Own Makeup Bags?
Sewing your makeup bags lets you control the size, shape, and colors. You can match your fabrics to your personality, create coordinating sets, or sew unique gifts for friends. Importantly, they only require a small amount of fabric and a zipper.
Supplies Needed
2 coordinating cotton fabrics (outer + lining)
1 zipper (7"–10", depending on desired bag size)
Lightweight fusible interfacing (optional but adds structure)
Scissors or rotary cutter
Pins or clips
Sewing machine & thread
How to Sew a DIY Makeup Bag
Step 1: Cut Your Fabric
Cut two rectangles for the outer bag and two for the lining.
A great beginner size is 8" × 10".
Step 2: Apply Interfacing
Fuse lightweight interfacing to the wrong side of the outer fabric. This gives the bag body and helps it stand up.
Step 3: Attach the Zipper
Place the outer fabric right side up.
Lay the zipper face down along the top edge.
Place the lining on top, right side down.
Sew along the zipper edge.
Repeat for the other side of the zipper.
Step 4: Sew the Bag Together
Unzip the zipper halfway.
Place outer fabrics right sides together and lining pieces right sides together.
Sew around the edges, leaving a 3" opening at the bottom of the lining.
Step 5: Box the Corners (Optional)
To make a flat bottom, pinch each corner into a triangle and sew across it 1" from the tip.
Step 6: Turn and Finish
Turn the bag right side out through the lining opening.
Stitch the opening closed, push the lining inside, and smooth the corners.
Your new makeup bag is ready to use!
Are Handmade Makeup Bags Washable?
Yes—most handmade makeup bags are washable, but the washability depends on the fabrics and materials you choose. If you sew bags from cotton or canvas with a simple nylon zipper, they wash beautifully and last for years.
Best Fabrics for Washable Makeup Bags
Quilting cotton – soft, durable, and fully machine washable
Canvas or cotton duck – sturdy and excellent for heavy use
Lining options: cotton, nylon, or PUL (waterproof)
Materials to Use With Caution
Some materials don’t handle machine washing well:
Faux leather or vinyl (wipe clean only)
Laminated cotton or oilcloth
Interfacing that is not labeled as washable.
Embellishments like beads, sequins, or metal charms
How to Wash a Handmade Makeup Bag
For the longest life, wash gently:
Turn the bag inside out.
Place inside a mesh laundry bag (optional but recommended for protection).
Use cold water on a gentle cycle.
Air dry to prevent heat damage to the zipper or interfacing.
Sewist Tip
If you plan to wash your bag frequently, choose a cotton fabric, a washable fusible interfacing, and a nylon coil zipper. This provides structure to your makeup bag while keeping it durable and easy to clean.
Love DIY projects like this? You’ll find even more at The Needle Market!
Shop sewing patterns, fabrics, more tutorials, sewing updates, eBooks, and adorable doll clothes at:
Did you find this article helpful and informative? If so, subscribe to The Needle Market in the sidebar to receive more articles and tutorials like this delivered conveniently to your inbox.
