Summer is here, and that means road trips, beach days, and maybe even a jet-set getaway! But before you zip up your suitcase, why not add a personal touch to your travels with some handmade travel accessories?
Whether you're looking to stay organized on the go or simply want something cute and comfy for long travel days, lightweight fabrics are your best friend. From soft eye masks to chic travel pouches, these DIY essentials are easy to make, super useful, and perfect for showing off your sewing skills.
At All About Fabrics, we love helping crafters turn great fabrics into practical pieces, so grab your favorite prints (and your sewing machine) — it’s time to stitch your way to a smoother summer vacation!
🎒 Travel Pouches: Stay Organized in Style
You can never have too many pouches — for toiletries, electronics, first aid kits, or even snacks! A simple zippered travel pouch made with cotton or canvas is a fun, beginner-friendly project that can be completed in under an hour.
What You’ll Need:
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¼ yard of cotton or canvas fabric
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Lining fabric (a fun contrast or coordinating print)
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One 9” zipper
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Matching thread
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Scissors or a rotary cutter
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Pins or clips
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Sewing machine
Instructions:
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Cut Fabric: Cut two rectangles (9" x 6") from both the outer fabric and the lining fabric.
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Sew the Zipper: Place one outer fabric piece right side up, lay the zipper face down on top, and place a lining piece right side down on top of that. Sew along the top edge. Repeat for the other side.
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Sew Sides: Open the zipper halfway (important!) and align the outer pieces together and the lining pieces together, right sides facing. Sew around all sides, leaving a 2” gap in the lining.
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Turn and Finish: Turn the pouch right side out through the gap and the open zipper. Sew the gap closed, tuck the lining inside, and press flat.
🧵 Tip: Use sturdy cotton canvas for structure or interfacing for added durability. Browse our online fabric shop to find prints that pop or elegant solids for a sleek look.
😴 DIY Fabric Eye Mask – Step-by-Step Instructions
Materials Needed:
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Soft cotton or double gauze fabric (for comfort against the skin)
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Thin batting or fleece (for cushion)
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12" piece of ¼” wide elastic
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Eye mask template (printable online or trace from an existing mask)
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Pins or clips
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Scissors or a rotary cutter
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Sewing machine or hand-sewing needle
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Iron (optional, for pressing)
🧵 Instructions:
1. Cut the Pieces
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Use your eye mask template to cut three layers:
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1 front piece (main fabric)
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1 back piece (lining fabric)
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1 piece of batting or fleece (same size)
Tip: Make sure all pieces are the same shape and size for even stitching later.
2. Prepare the Elastic
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Cut a 12” piece of elastic.
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Pin one end to each side of the front fabric piece, about ½" down from the top edge.
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The elastic should form a loop, with both ends pointing inward (the loop will go around your head when finished).
3. Layer the Mask
Stack your layers in this order:
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Front fabric face up
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Elastic ends are pinned in place on each side
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Batting or fleece layer
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Back fabric face down (right side in)
Pin or clip all the way around the edges to hold everything securely.
4. Sew Around the Edges
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Using a ¼” seam allowance, sew around the mask, leaving a 1.5” gap along the top or bottom edge (for turning).
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Backstitch at both ends of the opening to prevent unraveling.
Optional: Use a short stitch length for a more secure seam around curves.
5. Turn Right Side Out
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Carefully turn the mask right side out through the opening.
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Use a pencil or blunt object to gently push out the curves and corners.
6. Press and Topstitch
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Press the mask flat with an iron (on low, if using fleece).
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Topstitch all around the edge, about ⅛” from the edge, to:
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Close the turning gap
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Reinforce the seams
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Give it a finished look
Fabric Picks: Use soft cottons or silky blends for comfort. A floral print or playful pattern from All About Fabrics adds charm to this sleep essential.
🧴 Roll-Up Toiletry Organizer
Traveling with skincare, makeup, or even art supplies? A roll-up organizer keeps everything tidy and compact.
Supplies:
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½ yard of fabric (cotton canvas or denim for sturdiness)
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Coordinating fabric for pockets
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Ribbon or cord for closure
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Optional: clear vinyl or mesh for see-through pockets
Instructions:
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Cut Base Fabric: Cut a large rectangle (12” x 18”).
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Create Pockets: Cut smaller rectangles and fold over the top edge for a finished seam. Place them on the base fabric and sew vertical lines to create separate compartments.
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Add Ties: Sew a piece of ribbon or cord to one end for wrapping and tying.
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Finish Edges: Place right sides together with a backing fabric, sew around the edges, leave a gap, turn, and topstitch.
✨ Use sturdy fabrics from our online fabric store — like canvas or cotton duck — to keep your organizer durable for repeated use.
✨ Final Tips for Summer Travel Sewing
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Choose Lightweight Fabrics: Think cotton, linen, rayon, or double gauze — breathable and perfect for warmer temps.
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Pre-wash Your Fabric: Always wash and dry your fabric before cutting to avoid shrinking your finished product.
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Add Personal Touches: Embroider initials, sew on patches, or use fun zipper pulls to make each item uniquely yours.
🛍️ Ready to Create?
Visit allaboutfabrics.com today and explore our huge selection of summer-friendly fabrics — cottons, canvas, double gauze, and more! With fast shipping across the U.S. and new arrivals every month, your perfect fabric is just a few clicks away.