Looking for ways to entertain the kids during the holidays while sparking their creativity? Why not try your hand at some easy sewing projects together? Sewing with children can be a fun, bonding experience—and it’s also a great way to teach practical skills. Below are 10 delightful and simple projects you can enjoy with your little ones, using fabric and a bit of imagination.
1. Dog Bandana
Free Dog Bandana Pattern from Sew Can She
If you’ve got a furry friend at home, this one’s for you! A dog bandana is an adorable, quick project that even young kids can help with. It’s a straightforward pattern with simple stitching, and the kids will love choosing fabric to match your pet’s personality. Bonus: you’ll have the most stylish pup on the block!
2. Bendy Snake
Bendy Snake Tutorial @ThisPilgrimLife
Slither into fun with this bendy snake! This project uses fabric scraps and pipe cleaners to create a flexible toy that kids can twist and turn. It’s simple to sew and provides hours of imaginative play. Let your children pick vibrant colours and patterns to make their snake unique.
3. Felt Monsters
Make Felt Monsters by It's Always Autumn
Let your child’s creativity run wild by designing their own felt monsters! These cuddly creatures are easy to sew because felt doesn’t fray, and the free template makes it even simpler. The customisation options—eyes, teeth, and wild shapes—are endless, ensuring plenty of giggles along the way.
4. Glove Monsters
Glove Monsters Tutorial @craftaholicsanonymous
Repurpose old gloves into cute monsters! This is a fabulous upcycling project, and the sewing is minimal. Your child can stuff the glove and sew on buttons or felt for features like eyes and mouths. These monsters make perfect little pals or fun gifts for friends.
5. Superhero Cape and Mask
Superhero Cape Pattern by Crazy Little Projects
Transform your little ones into superheroes with their very own cape and mask! This project is a bit larger but still very beginner friendly. Kids can unleash their inner hero by picking their favourite colours and symbols. Perfect for everyday play, fancy dress or, dare we say it, World Book Day
6. Fabric Bookmarks
Reading Bookmarks for Kids by Happiest Camper
Encourage a love for reading by creating personalised bookmarks. This project is super quick and requires only small pieces of fabric. Even better, younger kids can make them with felt. Kids can experiment with different patterns and even add decorative stitches. It’s a perfect little project to start building sewing confidence.
7. Heart Hand Warmers
DIY Heart Hand Warmers by The Idea Room
These heart-shaped hand warmers are both adorable and functional. Filled with rice, they can be heated in the microwave to keep little hands toasty on chilly days. This project is simple enough for kids to sew (with supervision) and makes a heartfelt gift for grandparents or teachers. Great for Galantine’s Day gifts.
8. Drawstring Backpack
Drawstring Backpack by Skip to My Lou
For slightly older kids, a drawstring backpack is an excellent project. It’s practical, stylish, and surprisingly easy to make. Children can use their new bags for everything from carrying toys to taking books to school.
9. Scrunchies
DIY Scrunchie Tutorial by Love Crafts
Scrunchies are always in fashion and super fun to make! This project uses small amounts of fabric and elastic, making it ideal for beginners. Older kids can whip up a scrunchie in no time and even make a matching one for friends or family.
10. Pillowcase
Check the Tutorial by Paper & Stitch Here
Brighten up any bedroom with custom pillowcases! This is a larger project but still very easy, thanks to its simple rectangular design. Kids will enjoy choosing fabric that matches their style or bedroom. Plus, they’ll enjoy their handiwork every time they go to sleep.
Tips for Sewing with Children
-
Keep it simple: Choose projects with straight stitching and minimal cutting.
-
Let them choose fabrics: This makes the project more personal and fun. If you don’t have anything suitable in your stash and you live near our fabric shop in London, we usually have a remnants bin they can rummage through.
-
Safety first: Teach children how to handle scissors and needles responsibly and always supervise closely.
-
Celebrate the imperfections: It’s all about having fun, not perfection.
Sewing with your children is a delightful way to spend the holidays. You can use fabric scraps from your stash and even do a bit of your own sewing while keeping an eye on them. These projects are simple enough to keep frustration at bay while providing plenty of opportunities for creativity. Grab some fabric, thread (and snacks), and let the fun begin!
