DIY Fabric Storage Bins: Stylish & Organized
Tired of cluttered shelves and overflowing drawers? Want to add a touch of personality to your storage solutions? Then you're in the right place! This DIY fabric storage bin tutorial is the perfect solution for anyone looking to add stylish organization to their home. These bins are surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners, and you can customize them to match your existing décor.
What You’ll Need
- Fabric: Choose your favorite! Cotton, linen, canvas, or even upcycled fabric scraps work great. Estimate about 1/2 yard for a small bin, 1 yard for a medium, and 1.5 yards for a large.
- Interfacing (optional): Adds stability and structure to your bins. Lightweight fusible interfacing is recommended.
- Sewing Machine
- Thread
- Scissors or Rotary Cutter
- Ruler or Measuring Tape
- Pins or Clips
- Iron
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cut Your Fabric
First, decide on the size of your storage bins. Here are a few suggested sizes (these can be adjusted!):
- Small: 8" x 10" (ideal for craft supplies or small toys)
- Medium: 12" x 36" (perfect for blankets or sweaters)
- Large: 16" x 48" (great for organizing bulky items)
Cut two pieces of fabric for each bin size. If using interfacing, cut two pieces of interfacing as well. Remember to add a 1/2 inch seam allowance on all sides.
2. Apply Interfacing (Optional)
If you’re using interfacing, center it on the wrong side of your fabric pieces and fuse according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This step isn’t essential, but it will make your bins more durable and give them a more polished look.
3. Sew the Sides
Place two pieces of fabric right sides together. Sew along the long edges with a 1/2 inch seam allowance. Backstitch at the beginning and end to secure the seams.
4. Create the Bottom
Now, it's time to create the bottom. Depending on the desired shape, you can choose a squared-off bottom or a more rounded one. For a squared-off bottom, simply continue sewing the seams around the remaining sides, ensuring corners are square.
5. Box the Corners (for Squared Bottoms)
To create a clean, squared-off bottom, you’ll need to “box” the corners. To do this, fold each corner so that the side seam and the bottom edge line up, forming a triangle. Measure and trim away the excess fabric, leaving a 1/2 inch seam allowance. Pin securely and sew across the corner.
6. Finish the Top Edge
Fold the top edge of the bin down 1/2 inch and press with an iron. Fold it down again another 1/2 inch and press again. This creates a neat, finished edge. You can topstitch around the top edge for extra durability and a professional look.
Tips & Variations
- Fabric Choice: Consider using heavier fabrics like canvas or denim for more substantial bins.
- Handles: Add fabric handles for easy carrying.
- Personalization: Embellish your bins with buttons, embroidery, or fabric paint.
- Size Variations: Experiment with different sizes to suit your specific storage needs.
- Quilted Fabric: For a unique look, use quilted fabric.
Enjoy Your Organized Space!
You're all done! Now you have a stylish and functional fabric storage bin to help organize your home. These bins are a great way to add a touch of personality to your décor while keeping things tidy.
