Have you been collecting fabric scraps, wondering what to do with them? I recently discovered the perfect small project that's both practical and adorable - a Sewing clips caddy. This little organizer is ideal for holding jewelry, craft supplies, or small desk items. Let me walk you through how to make one yourself.
Materials You'll Need
- Fabric scraps (I used vinyl, but cotton works great for beginners)
- Stabilizer or interfacing scraps (the sturdiness of your basket depends on this)
- Two pieces of velcro for the handle
- Basic sewing supplies
Pattern Pieces
The pattern consists of 4 pieces:
- Piece A: A rounded shape that forms the bottom of the basket
- Piece B: Eight identical pieces that create the sides when sewn together
- 2 handles
- 1 Bias tape
Let's Get Started!
Preparation
- Cut out all your pattern pieces from your chosen fabrics. Remember to cut matching pieces from your stabilizer.
- Fuse your stabilizer to the wrong side of your exterior fabric pieces according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Creating the Caddy Body
The construction of this caddy is quite clever. You'll start by creating what looks like a tube with the side pieces:
- Take two side pieces (B) and place them right sides together.
- Sew along the curved edges with a 1/4" seam allowance.
- Trim the excess fabric to 1/8", being careful not to cut through your stitching.
- Continue connecting all eight side pieces together in the same manner.
- Repeat this process with your lining fabric.
When you're done, you'll have two fabric tubes - one for the exterior and one for the lining.
Attaching the Bottom
- Find and mark the center of your exterior bottom piece.
- Place the bottom piece inside your exterior tube.
- Align the center marks and clip the edges together.
- Sew around the raw edges with a 1/4" seam allowance.
- Measure 1' down from the top edge and Add 2 halves of the velcro
- For the lining, follow the same steps but use a 3/8" seam allowance to create a slightly smaller lining (preventing a baggy fit).
Combining Exterior and Lining
- Turn the exterior basket right side out.
- Keep the lining wrong side out.
- Place the lining inside the exterior basket with wrong sides together.
- Clip around the raw edges and baste with a 1/8" seam allowance.
- This part can be tricky with a small caddy, so work slowly and carefully.
Adding the Bias Binding
- Fold your bias strip in half lengthwise.
- Insert it over the raw edges of your caddy rim.
- Clip or glue in place.
- Sew with a 1/8" seam allowance, using a longer topstitch for a clean finish.
Creating the Removable Handle
- Place double-sided tape down the center of one handle strip. ( I used clips)
- Remove the backing and place the second strip on top, wrong sides together.
- Sew around all edges with a 1/8" seam allowance.
- Add velcro on both ends of the handle to complete
Final Assembly
- Attach the handle to the caddy
- Add all of your sewing bit and bobs. You're done!
Customization Ideas
What makes this project special is how customizable it is:
- Use coordinating prints for a patchwork look
- Go monochromatic for a sleek, modern basket
- Try different materials - canvas for durability, quilting cotton for a softer look
- Adjust the size by scaling the pattern (just maintain proportions)
Final Thoughts
This sewing supplies caddy is perfect for beginners looking to try some new techniques or experienced sewers wanting to use up fabric scraps. The unique construction creates a sturdy little container that's as functional as it is cute.
What scraps will you use for your caddy? I'd love to see your creations!
Happy sewing!
Watch the video tutorial👇