DIY: Oilcloth Zippered Pencil Case

We've got a fun and really easy project to help you learn the zipper sewing process with this oil cloth pencil case. You can substitute with cotton if you'd like as well but oil cloth will hold its shape much better.

Supplies:

• Oil cloth
• zipper (mine was 8'')
• pins
• scissors
• sewing machine and matching thread

Measure your zipper across and cut two matching pieces of oil cloth the same length x 4'' height. My zipper was 8'' so my oil cloth pieces were 8'' x 4''.


right sides together, place one oil cloth piece on top of the zipper, lining up the edges


Sew a simple basting stitch (and long loose stitch) to hold is in place temporarily.


It should look like this after you finish the basting stitch. Open up the zipper now.


Using a zipper foot on your sewing machine, sew along that basting stitch, very close- but not on top of the metal zipper.


Do the same with the other piece of oil cloth and the other side of the zipper


It should look like this when done, after finger pressing it open.


Fold it back on top of each other, right side to right side and making sure to leave the zipper open, stitch the other three sides together on the machine about ½'' seam.


Since the zipper is open it should be easy to fold it right side,  and should look like this when you're done!


You've got a fun and stylish way to store your pens and pencils. More importantly....you sewed a zipper. Bravo! Welcome to the intermediate sewing club!