Who says gardening can't be fashionable? If you're looking for a fun, sustainable craft that brings charm to your indoor or outdoor plants, fabric planters are your next must-try project. They’re lightweight, reusable, and an absolute joy to make — not to mention they add a splash of personality to every corner of your home.
At All About Fabrics, we believe in crafting with purpose. That’s why we love this project: it’s practical, eco-friendly, and the perfect way to showcase your favorite fabrics. Whether you're using bold prints, natural textures, or scrap pieces, these fabric planters let your creativity bloom.
Ready to get your hands (just a little) dirty? Let’s dig in!
Why Fabric Planters?
Before we start stitching, let’s talk about why fabric planters are such a great idea:
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🌱 Eco-Friendly: Made with reusable materials and scraps, these planters reduce waste.
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🎨 Customizable: Pick the size, color, and fabric that fits your space and your vibe.
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🧺 Machine Washable: If they get a little grimy (and they will), just toss them in the wash!
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🌿 Space-Saving: Soft planters fold away when not in use—great for seasonal switch-ups.
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💸 Budget-Friendly: Use leftover fabric and basic sewing supplies. No need for fancy tools!
✂️ What You'll Need
This project is totally beginner-friendly. You only need a few basic materials:
Supplies:
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½ yard of medium to heavyweight fabric (canvas, denim, cotton duck, or upholstery fabric works great)
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½ yard of coordinating lining fabric (or use more of the same)
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Matching thread
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Scissors or a rotary cutter
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Sewing machine (or needle and thread)
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Ruler or measuring tape
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Pins or clips
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Optional: Interfacing or fusible fleece for extra structure
🧵 Fabric Tip: Shop All About Fabrics for cotton canvas or home décor fabrics in bright florals, neutral tones, or boho prints. They're durable, stylish, and ideal for planters!
Step-by-Step: How to Sew a Fabric Planter
Let’s make a simple round fabric planter that fits a small to medium pot (around 5”–7” diameter). Adjust dimensions as needed based on your plant’s size.
1. Cut Your Pieces
Cut the following from both your outer and lining fabric:
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1 rectangle: 18" wide x 10" tall (this will form the body)
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1 circle: 6" diameter (for the base)
Optional: Cut the same size pieces from interfacing and fuse them to the outer fabric for sturdiness.
2. Sew the Side Seam
Fold the large rectangle in half with right sides together, matching the 10” edges. Sew a ½” seam down the short side to form a tube. Press the seam open.
Repeat for the lining fabric.
3. Attach the Base
Pin the circular base to the bottom edge of your tube, right sides together. Sew around the edge with a ½” seam. Take your time—slow and steady helps curve the fabric smoothly.
Do this for both the outer and lining pieces.
4. Assemble the Planter
Turn the outer planter right side out. Keep the lining wrong side out. Slide the lining into the outer fabric so the right sides are facing each other. Line up the top edges.
Pin around the top and sew, leaving a 3" gap for turning.
5. Turn and Finish
Turn the planter right side out through the gap. Push the lining into the outer shell and press the top edge.
Topstitch all the way around the top to close the gap and give a nice finished look.
6. Add a Folded Cuff (Optional)
Want to show off that cute lining? Fold the top down to reveal a contrasting cuff. It adds personality and a professional touch!
Styling and Usage Ideas
Fabric planters are incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to use and display them:
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🌿 Cover for plastic nursery pots: Just drop your plant (in its original pot) inside.
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🌻 Herb garden holder: Line up a few on your windowsill with rosemary, basil, and mint.
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🌺 Gift idea: Pop a succulent inside and gift it with a handwritten tag.
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🍓 Outdoor-friendly fabric: Use water-resistant fabric for your patio or porch.
🧺 Care Tip: These planters aren’t waterproof, so be sure to use a drip tray inside or remove the plant before watering. Or sew a liner with water-resistant fabric for added protection!
Customize Your Planter
Let your imagination bloom! Try these fun ideas to personalize your fabric planter:
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🖍️ Use fabric paint or iron-on vinyl to add names, quotes, or designs.
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🪡 Add lace, ribbon, or embroidery for a crafty, handmade look.
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🔁 Repurpose old jeans, tea towels, or canvas bags for an upcycled version.
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🧩 Make sets in different sizes to create a tiered plant display.
🌎 Sustainable Sewing at Its Best
If you're looking for more ways to be kind to the planet while indulging your love of fabric, fabric planters are a great start. They’re an easy, satisfying way to use up fabric scraps, reduce plastic waste, and bring more handmade charm into your life.
And remember, with a few size tweaks, this same pattern can work for storage baskets, toy bins, craft organizers, and more.
Ready to Make Your Own?
Visit All About Fabrics to shop the best fabrics for DIY fabric planters. Our online store is stocked with durable cottons, colorful canvas, upholstery prints, and everything you need to bring your planter project to life.
Whether you're building a backyard oasis or just want to green up your windowsill, All About Fabrics has your back (and your soil-covered fingers).