How to Sew a Zipper Pouch (Step-by-Step Tutorial)

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A zipper pouch is a classic sewing project that’s perfect for beginners and endlessly useful. You can use it to store makeup, pens, sewing tools, or small items—and it makes a great handmade gift. This tutorial shows you how to sew a fully lined zipper pouch with clean finishes.

Finished Size (Approximate)

  • 8 in wide x 5 in tall

You can easily change the size by adjusting the fabric measurements.

Materials & Supplies Needed

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Fabric

(Cotton quilting fabric is ideal for beginners.)

Optional Interfacing (Recommended)

Zipper

  • 1 zipper, 9 in long
    (Nylon coil zippers are easiest to sew)

Thread & Notions

Sewing Machine Supplies

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Fabric

  1. Cut all fabric and interfacing pieces to size.
  2. Fuse interfacing to the wrong side of the exterior fabric following the manufacturer’s instructions.
  3. Press all pieces flat.

Step 2: Attach the Zipper (First Side)

  1. Place one exterior piece right side up.
  2. Lay the zipper right side down along the top edge, aligning raw edges.
  3. Place one lining piece right side down on top, creating a fabric–zipper–fabric sandwich.
  4. Pin or clip in place.
  5. Using a zipper foot, sew along the edge with a ¼ in seam allowance.

Step 3: Attach the Zipper (Second Side)

  1. Flip both fabric pieces away from the zipper and press.
  2. Place the second exterior piece right side up.
  3. Lay the free side of the zipper right side down along the top edge.
  4. Place the second lining piece right side down on top.
  5. Pin or clip and sew with a ¼ in seam allowance.
  6. Press both sides away from the zipper.

Step 4: Topstitch Along the Zipper

  1. Topstitch ⅛–¼ in from the zipper on both sides.
  2. This keeps fabric from catching in the zipper and adds a polished look.

Step 5: Open the Zipper

  • Important: Open the zipper at least halfway before sewing the pouch together.

Step 6: Sew the Pouch Body

  1. Match exterior pieces right sides together.
  2. Match lining pieces right sides together.
  3. Push the zipper toward the lining side.
  4. Pin around all edges.
  5. Sew around the pouch using a ½ in seam allowance.
  6. Leave a 3–4 in opening in the bottom of the lining for turning.

Step 7: Box the Corners (Optional)

  1. To create depth, pinch each corner so seams align.
  2. Measure 1 in from the point and sew straight across.
  3. Trim excess fabric.
  4. Repeat for all four corners.

Step 8: Turn & Close

  1. Turn the pouch right side out through the lining opening.
  2. Stitch the lining opening closed.
  3. Push the lining inside the pouch and shape corners neatly.

Step 9: Final Press

  1. Press the pouch flat, keeping the iron away from zipper teeth.
  2. Zip closed—your pouch is finished!

Optional Customizations

  • Add a wrist strap
  • Use contrast zipper tape
  • Add labels, embroidery, or quilting
  • Adjust size for cosmetic bags or pencil cases

Time & Skill Level

  • Time: 30–45 minutes
  • Skill level: Beginner

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