How to Make a Pencil Bag

Last Updated: February 24, 2021 Tested

Making your own pencil bag is a great way to use up scrap fabric that you love but that isn't large enough for bigger craft projects. It's also an eco-friendly option for toting pencils around, and a reflection of your own style.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:
Preparing the Design

1
Decide upon the fabric type. Use a sturdy fabric. Cottons work well, as would corduroy, denim or heavier weight fabrics.
- The stronger the fabric, the longer it'll last and endure being toted about and having sharp items poked into it if you can not find stronger fabric just double it.
2
Decide upon the size and shape. These will depend upon the amount, length and width of the items you'll be placing inside the case. The shape of a square or rectangle works best for a pencil bag.
- Use a ruler or measuring tape to work out the size of the bag; measure the contents and allow for a little extra room around the edges (for ease of movement) to calculate the total size.
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3
Decide on which side you'll be placing a zipper. A zipper can be placed either at the short side or long side of a rectangle, depending upon your preference.

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Method 2

Method 2 of 2:
Sewing the Pencil Bag

1
Cut the fabric into two equally sized square or rectangle shapes. Allow for a half-inch/1 centimeter (0.4 in) seam allowance on all sides.
- Another alternative is to fold one large piece of fabric in half and use the fold as the base of the pencil bag. You'll need to press the fold line before stitching the bag together if you do this instead of using two pieces of fabric.
2
Hold the two pieces of fabric in place with sewing pins.
3
Attach the zipper to both pieces of the fabric, at the side you've chosen to have it. Fold over a half-inch/1 centimeter (0.4 in) of fabric on one side of the square or rectangle and iron it flat. Place the edge of the zipper beneath the fold. Stitch the zipper in place with a tight, sturdy stitch.
4
With right sides together, stitch the remaining three sides of the case together. Double stitch the seams to ensure strength.
5
Unzip the zipper. Turn the case right side out and make sure you can not see the part that you sewed .
6
Done. Fill with pencils and related items and you're all set.

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Community Q&A

Question

How can I make this without a zipper?

Community Answer

Add buttons or hook-and-loop tape (Velcro). If you space the buttons or Velcro too far apart, the pencils will stick out of the gap.
Question

Where do I need to buy the zipper?

Community Answer

You can buy a zipper from a craft store.
Question

How do I sew on the zipper?

Community Answer

You can use a sewing machine (if you have one) or hand sew, but that takes longer.
Question

Can I make a purse or makeup bag using the same method?

Community Answer

Yes you can.
Question

How do I make a pencil bag without sewing?

Community Answer

You can use the exact same method but with hot glue, Tacky Glue, or Invisible Thread. You'll have to wait for it to dry to make sure it's sturdy.
Question

Can I find zippers in Michael's?

Community Answer

Yes, you can find zippers in Michael's as well as any other craft store. You can find different lengths of zippers to choose from to make your pencil case.
Question

How long does it take to make a pencil bag?

Community Answer

It should take about 30 minutes max. Take your time, mistakes are made when you rush.
Question

Can I make it with a hot glue gun?

Community Answer

Yes, but be careful. You will also need to give it time to dry if you use hot glue.
Question

What do I use to sew it?

Community Answer

You could sew it with a sewing machine, or a simple needle and thread, depending on what's available.