How to Sew a Chapstick Holder

Are you tired of losing your chapstick or digging through your bag trying to find it? A simple solution is to sew a chapstick holder! Not only does this keep your chapstick within reach, but it also adds a personal touch to your everyday items.

Keeping track of your chapstick can often be a hassle, especially when it gets lost in the depths of your bag or pocket. Sewing your chapstick holder is a practical and straightforward solution to this problem. Not only is it a fun and creative project for sewing enthusiasts of all skill levels, but it also provides a convenient way to keep your chapstick within easy reach.

This guide on how to sew a chapstick holder will walk you through the steps needed to create a personalized and functional chapstick holder, perfect for attaching to a keychain, bag, or lanyard.

What Are the Benefits of Sewing Your Own Chapstick Holder?

• Personalization: By sewing your chapstick holder, you have the freedom to choose the fabric, design, and size that best fit your style and preferences. You can also add embellishments or embroidery to make it truly unique.
• Convenience: When you sew your chapstick holder, you can customize it to fit your specific needs. For example, you can make a larger one to hold multiple lip balms or a smaller one for just one stick.
• Cost-effective: Making your chapstick holder is a cost-effective alternative to buying one from a store. With just a few materials, you can create multiple holders for yourself, your friends, and your family.
• Sustainable: As mentioned before, creating your chapstick holder is a great way to repurpose fabric scraps or old clothing. This reduces waste and promotes sustainability by giving new life to items that would otherwise be thrown away.
• Perfect Gift Idea: Handmade gifts are always special and meaningful. A personalized chapstick holder makes a thoughtful gift for friends, family, or even as party favors.

What Will You Need?

Materials

• Fabric scraps or old clothing (cotton, flannel, fleece are recommended for their softness)
• Sewing machine or needle and thread
• Scissors
• Ruler or measuring tape
• Iron and ironing board (optional)
• Keychain ring or clip (optional)
• Embellishments like buttons, beads, and patches (optional)

10 Easy Steps on How to Sew a Chapstick Holder

Step 1: Measure and Cut the Fabric 

Using your ruler or measuring tape, measure out a rectangular piece of fabric that is approximately 3 inches wide and 4 inches long. Adjust the dimensions slightly if you prefer a larger or smaller chapstick holder. Once measured, use scissors to cut out the piece of fabric carefully. If the fabric is wrinkled, use an iron to smooth it out, as this will make sewing easier later. Repeat this step if you are making multiple holders.

Step 2: Fold and Press the Fabric 

Fold the fabric in half lengthwise, with the patterned or outer side facing inward, so that the plain side is visible. Ensure the edges are aligned evenly. Next, use an iron to press along the folded edge, creating a crisp crease. This step will help to hold the fabric in place during sewing and ensure a cleaner, more professional finish for your chapstick holder. If you’re working with delicate fabric, adjust your iron’s heat setting accordingly to avoid damage.

Step 3: Pin the Edges 

Using straight pins, carefully secure the two long edges of the folded fabric together. Place the pins perpendicular to the edges, spacing them evenly about an inch apart to ensure stability while sewing. Be sure to avoid pinning too close to the edge, leaving enough space for your seam allowance. This will help keep the fabric from shifting during stitching, resulting in a more polished final product. Take your time with this step, as accurate pinning is key to achieving clean, even seams.

Step 4: Sew the Long Edges 

Using a sewing machine or a needle and thread, carefully sew along the pinned edges of the fabric. Begin at one end and work your way to the other, ensuring the stitching stays straight and consistent.

Use a backstitch at the start and end of each seam to secure the threads and prevent unraveling. Maintain the seam allowance you planned during pinning, as this will keep the project neat and even. Remove the pins as you sew, taking extra care not to sew over them, as this could damage your equipment or misalign the fabric. After sewing, check the seams to ensure they are secure before moving on to the next step.

Step 5: Trim the Seams 

Carefully trim any excess fabric from the seam allowances to reduce bulk and create a cleaner finish. Use sharp fabric scissors or pinking shears for this step, depending on the type of fabric and desired effect. Pinking shears produce a zigzag edge that helps prevent fraying, while straight scissors work well for fabrics that are less prone to fraying.

Be cautious not to cut too close to the stitching line, as this could weaken the seam. For curved seams, make small notches or clips along the allowance to help the fabric lie flat when turned. Taking the time to trim properly ensures a polished and professional result for your project.

Step 6: Turn the Fabric Right Side Out 

Once you have trimmed the seam allowances, gently turn the fabric right side out. Use your fingers or a blunt tool, such as a chopstick or the eraser end of a pencil, to push out the corners and curves for a smooth and even finish. Be careful not to use anything too sharp, as it could puncture the fabric. After turning the fabric, take the time to straighten out the edges and ensure that all seams are properly aligned. This step is essential for giving your project a neat and professional appearance before proceeding to the final touches.

Step 7: Fold and Tuck the Top Edge 

To create a clean and polished top edge, start by folding the raw edge of the fabric inward. Use a ruler or measuring tape to ensure the fold is even along the entire length. Typically, folding about 1/4 to 1/2 inch of cloth inward works well, but adjust according to your project.

Secure the fold in place with pins or clips to prevent it from shifting. For added precision, you may choose to press the fold with an iron, creating a crisp edge that stays in place. Once folded, you can proceed with stitching or securing the edge as appropriate for your design. This step is crucial for achieving a professional-looking finish and ensuring the durability of your final product.

Step 8: Secure the Top Edge 

To secure the top edge, carefully align it and stitch along the fold using a straight or decorative stitch, depending on your design preference. Ensure you maintain even tension and spacing to achieve a neat, polished result. For added durability, consider using a double stitch or reinforcing it with a zigzag pattern. Keep the fabric steady as you sew to avoid puckering or uneven seams. Once completed, trim any excess thread and inspect the edge to ensure it is firmly secured and aligned with the overall design of your project.

Step 9: Create the Chapstick Pocket 

To create the chapstick pocket, start by cutting a small rectangular piece of fabric that matches your desired pocket size. Fold the edges inward and press them with an iron to create clean, finished edges. Place the fabric rectangle on the main project piece where you want the pocket to be positioned, ensuring it is aligned and centered.

Pin it in place to keep it secure. Sew around the sides and bottom of the rectangle, leaving the top edge open to form the pocket. Use a straight stitch for a clean finish, and backstitch at the top corners for extra durability.

Step 10: Sew the Pocket 

Once the pocket is securely pinned and in the correct position, carefully sew around the pinned edges. Begin by sewing along the side edge, ensuring your stitches are straight and even. Continue sewing along the bottom edge, then proceed up the opposite side. Be sure to leave the top edge open, as this will serve as the pocket’s opening. Backstitch at the top corners to reinforce the pocket and prevent unnecessary wear and tear over time.

By following these simple steps, you can easily add a functional and stylish pocket to any garment. Pockets not only serve as a practical storage solution, but they can also add an interesting detail to your outfit.

Conclusion

Sewing a chapstick holder is a simple and rewarding project that combines functionality with creativity.

By carefully selecting fabric, measuring accurately, and sewing with precision, you can create a compact and stylish accessory to keep your chapstick easily accessible. Adding thoughtful details like a loop for attaching to a keyring or bag ensures it is both practical and versatile. Whether you’re making it for yourself or as a thoughtful handmade gift, this project is an excellent way to practice sewing skills while crafting something helpful.

Hopefully, the article on how to sew a chapstick holder has given you the confidence and inspiration to create your own!