How to Make a Zipper Wristlet or Makeup Cosmetic Bag Pouch

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This week's tutorial features a great beginner project especially for those of you that have never sewn a zipper into any project. I show you step-by-step how to make a quilted zipper wristlet pouch/ cosmetic bag. Great way to practice your sewing and quilting skills and they whip up pretty quick!
All you need is fabric for the outside, some batting, lining fabric, one 8" zipper, coordinating thread and your usual sewing supplies. To hold the fabric and zipper layers together you can use pins or a fabric glue stick. I prefer to use the Lapel Stick.
This tutorial has been submitted as my audition video for the My Craft Channel Fresh Faces Talent Search.
I hope you'll consider making this project yourself. If you do please share pictures of your completed projects on our Facebook page: / craftygemini
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[@LetsFigureThisOut]

I had never touched a sewing machine before and 6 hours later, I finished a cosmetic bag for my wife. Now I have to make 2 more for my daughters. Thanks for the video.

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Glad to hear it! Go you! :)

[@morrisdancer11]

Brilliant: You are the first tutorial where the details are given, such as, which way to place the zipper when sewing the lining. These are the type of "tricks" that help newbies get it right. Well done.

[@Cookie-dg6ws]

Vera Wroe .

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Thanks so much! I'm happy to hear that my efforts to be as clear as possible are paying off. Thanks for all your support! :o)

[@pattiann9]

Your directions were very clear and simple. Thanks.

[@1silversand]

Hi Vanessa, I have been sewing and teaching for years. You are doing Great! Love to see young people this interested in sewing. Keep up the "Great" work.

[@suzettedearmas1228]

Vanessa, you're an AMZING teacher. You seem to have so much patience- what my mother a professional seamstress lacks. She didn't want me to end up working in a factory like her so she put me through college. I love crafts and sewing and asked her for my very own sewing machine for the holidays; well she got me the machine but doesn't want to teach. God bless you, because although I learn pretty well on my own, you seem to teach me the little tricks here and there to produce quality work.

[@marcialj83]

A few minutes ago I just finished my wristlet using this tutorial, This it the best video out there on wristlets. I tried other, but they failed. This simple how to turned out awesome, way better than my failures from other vids. When I have a chance I will send you pictures, Thanks for your videos they are very helpful and fun.

[@ntxaijsbabiesmomma]

I LOVE HOW POSITIVE AND STRONG YOU SOUND! YOU SOUND VERY CONFIDENT MAKES ME FEEL LIKE I CAN MAKE ONE TOO!! LOVE IT!

[@jabowa200]

I love Crafty Gemini. She doesn't waste time and has very organized instructions! Nice job.

[@Ceme612]

In 2010 I took a class for zippered pouch and sold over 50 bags ... about 3 years ago I got bombed with requests for over 30 zippered makeup pouches in vinyl, leather, laminated fabric, linings, pockets, etc. I had honestly forgot how to lay the right side down, lining, etc. so I jumped on KZbin and found this video. 3 weeks ago, after 2 years I got a request for 2 zippered pouches ... I'm back. Thanks for this video!

[@carjjen]

Clear instructions that I paused as I sewed. I could never figure how to put the lining in! I used spraying basting and it is a great way to use up fabric remnants. Thanks Vanessa!

[@PatsyB]

Best wristlet directions I have seen. Needed one I could help my granddaughter make and this was perfect. 😃

[@renaybarrows5146]

Thank you so much for showing this, it also show me to how to make a hand bag, I have been working on for a few days couldn't for the life me figure out what i was doing wrong! now my project is complete thanks to you video!

[@LetiLaFlaca]

If it wasn't 11 PM...I'd bust put my sewing/quilting supplies and make one of these RIGHT NOW RIGHT NOW!! I will just have to wait till the morning. ;) thanks!!

[@kcastillo0319]

Hi, Vanessa, I always enjoy your tutorials, and this was good. A couple of ideas, especially with beginners in mind. Use a zipper with nylon teeth longer than the project (won't work for metal), and after inserting the zipper, you can just cut off the excess like you did with the wrist strap. Also, instead of pivoting at the corners, sew completely off the edge, turn the fabric and sew the next seam. I'm teaching a newbie to sew, and this looks like an excellent project. Thanks.

[@EMGcrafter]

Thanks for showing how to sew around a zipper and adding a wristlet!

[@Sewonforever]

Thanks for the great video - with a waterproof inside fabric, and no batting, I make these for "snack" bags!

[@deborahanderson200]

I taught my sister's 9 year old granddaughter how to make this bag tonight. She watched your video, paused it, and did each step (except for the strap). Thank you for such a detailed, yet simple video.

[@lancethecat]

I was trying to figure out how to attach a zipper and this video was perfect for that. Thanks. I like the pouch too.

[@jayneanglesea991]

SUCH a welcome relief to have found you!!! I suffer from OCD and your clear, methodical, no waffling, step by step instructions make my life so much easier :-) Youre a great tutor THANK YOU XX

[@karenfrance1194]

It's 2021 and you haven't changed a bit! Best teacher ever. I needed reminding how to do this. I'm so glad how it popped up through a search.

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Aww. Thanks, Karen! ❤️ Hope all is well!

[@karenfrance1194]

@@TheCraftyGemini Yes mam. TODAY my quilting cruise sewing machine is ONE YEAR OLD. I call her "Vanessa" since she's autographed! Received it one year ago today. What a wonderful time that cruise was and can't wait until we can do that again someday! Thanks for all you do.

[@kellycallahan8634]

Hey there CG, I just want you to know that I’ve been quilting and making handbags for 5 years and it was YOU who taught me to sew. Thank you from Kelly in Arkansas

[@bozomahoney]

PERFECT PERFECT PERFECT !!! FINALLY IT MAKES SENSE... I SHOULD HAVE COME HERE BEFORE I THREW MY $$ AWAY ON A PATTERN...

[@scottbecker1661]

Thank you Crafty Gemini! I used this video tutorial to make four memorial hand bags for my cousins. They last their sister last week and I made a lap quilt for the widow, but wanted to do something for the sisters too. I had never worked with zippers before and your video made it "sew" simple! I was able to complete 4 hand bags in one evening. I would like to share a photo of them for you to use, if you would like to.

[@SewDiva5691]

Can't wait to try this. I had successes sewing in zippers in the past. So, i feel confident trying this project. Thanks for sharing. 8-)

[@AlyssaJackson12]

thanks. i have been sewing since i was 13. i wanted to amek a denim purse by threadbanger. so i bought a luttle tiny machine that only did straight stitch. then for christmas my parents got me a real machine... and i have been loving it. my parents would have to walk into my room and get my attention to tell me to eAt, cause i would spend, literaly all day just sewing its been great

[@monasusie]

Vanessa, you are a natural-born teacher! This is a very well done and easy to follow tutorial and I look forward to more!. I made two of these with scraps from fabric I used to make pillowcases for Christmas presents with coordinating fabrics.

[@charliem6335]

I woke up feeling crafty today and asked myself, what can I make? You are my go to expert!! I want you to know that you have made me a better sewing person. Every time I don't know how to sew something or I am intimidated, I look for your videos. Thanks for being so great and for sharing your knowledge. Keep up the great work.

[@marcialj83]

You are welcome and now I'm off to make your wallets and mug rug. These are going to be Christmas gifts.

[@TheVivs3]

I just made this last night and it proved to be harder than expected lol it was my second project on my machine I just got yesterday!! I will have to try again and I cant wait !! Thanks for your help :D

[@TodayinJensSewingRoom]

You know, having sewn for probably 40 years now, I think it's just genius that you're suggesting using a glue stick in lieu of pins. Great tip for beginners. You're a great teacher --

[@dawnallen5619]

Lady, you should have had over a million views already. Excellent tutorial. Very easy to understand.

[@chloechristie7568]

I was going to spend a ton of money on diaper clutches and organizer bags for my diaper bag. Instead I am so excited to save alittle money and make some custom pieces for myself with this tutorials help! :) Thank you so much!!

[@betsy1947]

Oh, and thanks for the tip on Lapel Stick! I hate pinning because it sometimes distorts the shape of the fabric. Can't wait to try it!

[@TheCraftyGemini]

That it so awesome!! Tell her I say thank you! Glad you all enjoyed it!

[@nalodailec]

What a very good teacher you are, thank you. No waffling on about anything. Straightforward, concise, clear. First class.

[@musclelimit]

This is great, what I like is the LACK of waffle, so many of these video's have "blah blah blah" like the poster loves the sound of their own voice. This is concise and seems do-able ! I'd like to give it a go. Thanks for sharing

[@sunflower2213]

I made this yesterday and it turned out great... You made this project so easy to follow and make! I have been scared to sew a zipper in anything this was my first and it was so easy I am trying it again with a bigger bag for my craft projects that im currently working on... Your a great teacher!!!!!! Thank you so much!!!!!!!

[@Taliaris]

That looks so easy! Thanks! I will be sure to post a photo when I complete one. I am trying to talk myself out of starting one right now. lol

[@ellenmcburney2000]

You are the best!!!! You make everything simple.

[@luisapineda9387]

I have made five bags and they are so cute. I plan on making more to put in Christmas stockings. Thank you, I love watching your videos. I’m a beginner and following your tutorials are amazing.

[@rfvfdsa]

This is a GREAT tutorial! SO clear and to the point but not so fast you can't follow. Thank you I can't wait to make one!

[@TheCraftyGemini]

I get mine online. You can use 7" or 9" too. Just cut the fabric that will be sewn to the zipper at 1" longer than what the size of the zipper is. So, I used an 8" zipper and the fabric measurements were 9" x ..... Do the same for yours- if you use a 7" zip cut the fabric 8" x .... or if you use the 9" zip cut the fabric 10" x..... Hope that makes sense!

[@TheCraftyGemini]

You can use a walking foot if you have one to help feed the layers through more evenly.. but if you don't have one now worries. Use your basic foot, if you need to adjust the pressure foot tension if you see the layers are too bulky to push through and just go slower.

[@LAKR47]

I like the finish on this method...everything is enclosed, no raw edges inside the bag...very clever!

[@Taliaris]

Looking forward to this! Zippered projects intimidate me!!!!

[@renalovesjames]

love your videos. You are very good at explaining to us newbies how to do it, like now I actually have the nerve to try putting in a zipper !!! Thank You Bunches.

[@gardenlovers2]

keep those tutorials coming. Your easy to follow and understand. Can't wait to try this. Being a beginner I wouldn't even consider a zipper project, but I have to say I'm not as scared now. Thanks again.

[@1209kristal]

I am a huge fan of your work. I basically watch your videos every single morning with my coffee lol. Thnkx for your tutorials. Your instructions are greatly appreciated.

[@BuffaloPrincess]

Thank you so much for posting this tutorial. I was going to buy a vera bradley wristlet, but then I watched this. Now I am inspired to create my own. It's much cooler to say you made something yourself than to say I spent $30 on a name brand wristlet.

[@annemay8554]

Thank you! I hit a sale at Hancock Fabrics on Saturday (50%-90% off!) so I snatched up quite a few different designs with this project and a couple of your other ones in mind. Wish me luck.

[@TheEnglishRose77]

I made a black and white damask quilted cosmetic bag with a black and white polka dot lining following your great instructions. I also fed a pretty white ribbon through the zipper pull & it turned out so nice! I plan on making some as Christmas gifts this year! Love your tutorials as they're easy to follow along -- clear and concise! Thanks for sharing your expertise!

[@Transitiontoretirement]

I decided I was going to push through my Zipper Block this weekend and I run across your video! Thanks you so much for walking me through it! My confidence is BOOSTED! I love your tutorial and can't wait to attend more of your classes! Great Energy!!

[@winifredxu]

hi there, I just want to let you know that I finished my first sewing project and it's your POUCH!! I skipped the wristlet part, The whole process started with disasters, what material to get, no batting, zipper too long and stapled it shut... uneven edges, cloth coming off the raw edges.... could NOT get the thread to catch with the bobbing, all the disasters you can imagine for a first time sewer.. >.< but then I finished it (total time with shopping for material ~ 10 hours!) and it's so FORGIVING!!!! I ended up with a much smaller rectangular pouch (cutting mistakes, etc).. and it's BEAUTIFUL!! THANK YOU SO MUCH, (I watched this video 20+ times along the process) and just want you to know that your video taught another person something useful and keep up with the good jobs. IDEAS: maybe make a companion instruction sheet with the material measurement, time estimate, levels of difficulty (beginner, intermediate, advanced, etc).. and step by step instructions in words so people can reference that along with your excellent video! (do keep the video edited short as you do now).

[@dorothydanridge]

Great video and tutorial. I have sewn for over 40 years but needed a little refresher on lining a purse/bag/pouch. This covered everything I needed to know, Keep up the great videos. I'm subscribing.

[@MonikaMercakSzabadkaiova]

Great great videos! Very easy to understand... I made my first pouch with zipper today :) It needs a little more practice but at least it has a zipper,lol. Thank you! :)

[@marcialj83]

I will most def send you pictures. The way you explained the zipper each time it came up was amazing, like how you mentioned the teeth of the zipper facing the inside lining. /just pure awesomeness, Sorry can't stop saying how great your videos are and how EASY tutorials. Been watching you since you first appeared on Treadbanger.

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Glad you didn't give up on it! Thanks for watching. :o)

[@craftymom7]

Hey Vanessa. I Just finished making this. Yay soo cute. I made it larger, quilted it and it looks great! Thank you . I did pause and play alot!!! but hey , I did it. I did sew the fabric to close to the zipper,but managed to go back ad sew it out of the way, even tho completed.:) i love it!!!!

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Glad to help. Happy sewing!

[@betsy1947]

I can't wait to try this! I've always been intimidated by zippers, but you make this look so easy. Thanks!

[@jakkiwesson8270]

This made it so simple. i literally followed you through step by step, pausing to follow asKing. Thank you so much! Took me about an hour but my project came out super cute!

[@juliewillis2935]

Have just made 2 of these bags by following your Tutorial. I have never made anything like this before and as a beginner am very happy with the results. Look forward to trying out some of your other items as you really have a way of teaching in an easy to follow way :-) Many thanks!

[@TheCraftyGemini]

@Missrlbarlow I would still layer when using oil cloth or PUL just because the needle will make small holes in it when sewing and you may get moisture leaking or seeping out through there. I've made wetbags with the clear vinyl stuff on the inside to keep that from happening. I used velcro type stuff on my wetbags but you could probably leave the zipper exposed as long as the teeth aren't metal. Hope this helps.

[@shaznbud]

Another successful project!! Thank you - best wishes from the UK

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Gotta love fabric sales! Have fun and good luck!

[@rainymein]

I made lovely stuff following your videos. You are awessome! Please dont ever take them off...Thanks a ton!

[@vikolia]

Lapel stick? New to me! Thanks for the tutorial

[@debbrooks3598]

Hi Vanessa just made another one of these for make up. With big boxed corners and completely finished inside, thanks for the refresher!❤️❤️❤️

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Not sure what you're asking but I use a zipper foot in this video... and recommend it for this project.

[@Dibdib35]

Thank you so much for your videos! Today I have made a pot holder slightly bigger than the one you made which was too small to be a proper oven mitt but its like I made it for a child!! Lol! Great practice though for me at the quilting! Then I made two cloth wipes then the cosmetic purse. I didn't have batting so used an old towel. I now have a sore neck, better go get some pain killers:)

[@TheCraftyGemini]

@LuvMuzic21 Yes, that is the name of the product. If you do a google search for it you will find it. It doesn't hurt your machine or gum up your needle at all. It is non-toxic and specifically designed to be sewn through so it's a fab little product! I use it all the time to baste small pieces. Hope that helps! :o)

[@AngelacLee]

Eff me I should have watched this beautiful tutorial first before I decided I was a pro. This makes it see easy!!!!! Fml

[@judithsmith3257]

I absolutely loved this video. I had never put a zipper in and now I can say I have and it looks great!

[@KellyDannemann]

This is one of my favorite videos of yours!! Very professional!! Great tutorial. YOu made it so the zipper sewing was not so intimidating. TY again.

[@ladyynara]

Thank you so much for this tutorial! I just made my first zippered item, a cute little Union Jack purse big enough for my ipod and phone and I doubt it would have come out nearly as well without your step by step clear instructions!

[@TheCraftyGemini]

@gingermist21 Hi there! Yea, I had to put this tutorial out there... I've had A LOT of viewers ask for a zipper video. Glad you liked it! :o)

[@yarnsrj]

Hey Vanessa, my GO-TO girl. Needed to whip up a few sports themed wristlets and your video is quick and gave me the perfect sized wristlet. Only mod I did was adding a removable strap.

[@brmo66]

Thank you so much for this tutorial. I just finished my own zippered bag and love the results. Everything you said was very clear. Again, Thank you!

[@sleepyhead27]

You are so far the best at sewing tutorial. I would love to see some tutorials on blouses.

[@cynthiabrewer347]

I did it I did it!!! I made one and I'm so proud!!! Thank you Vanessa, your tutorial was so awesome. I had to replay a few times but I did it!!! Now my daughters want me to make some more. I'm just tickled pink!!! Now I want to see if I can make more and be a little faster in completing them. I am too excited.

[@jennifermartin3753]

I used your tutorial to install my first zipper. Thank you for making it so easy for me!

[@citruc3]

THANK YOU ! I could never figure out how to do the zipper on these things. Very helpful video !

[@MegaElaine3]

I can always count on you and your tutoring to guide me through! Thank you! ❤️

[@TheCraftyGemini]

@carinajimmy Thank you. Glad you are having fun with my tutorials! :o)

[@nailtech4years]

Thank you so much. Loved this. Easy, perfect!! I made mine out of a leg of jeans. Red zipper and added a divider in the middle!

[@TheCraftyGemini]

@kidsvids2007 That's exactly right! I don't carry a purse. Instead I have a few of these I switch out for daily use. They are perfect to carry essentials and can be thrown in a diaper bag so you don't have to carry two bags, etc.

[@LezAteMyPEZ1927]

omg....I made 2 before I saw this video. This video is much easier. Thank you. I want to make a few more now.

[@brandonbest8940]

You explain every thing SO well.

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Sorry to hear that! Try cutting the bottom off and doing it again to make it shorter and shorten the strap. Or start over with a smaller shirt.

[@kathleenokeefe3203]

I just made my first wristlet and I love it! Your video was so clear and easy to follow. Thank you!

[@jS-vp9gp]

i luv how you say "pretty side" and "ugly side" like its completely natural! lol!

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Sorry about your neck! But I'm glad you're are getting that practice in! Be sure to take breaks when you go on a crafting marathon. Feel better. :o)

[@TheCraftyGemini]

A 100% cotton, low loft batting works great. Or even an 80/20 cotton/poly blend, But I would stay away from a 100% polyester high loft batting. Hope that helps.

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@TheCraftyGemini]

batting is used inside a quilt to provide warmth and body. It's also used in a lot of smaller projects like the wristlet I make in this video. It adds some body and structure to the pouch while still keeping it pliable. If you only used the cotton fabric it would be very flimsy. You don't have to use batting but I do recommend something for in between the layers to do what the batting does. For example, something like felt would work.

[@lbgerald]

Thank you for the tut, I tried it again! (2nd try). My zipper is looking better. I will try again soon!

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Thank you! Glad to hear. :o) Happy sewing!

[@AlyssaJackson12]

* my mind likes. *love your tutorials

[@sylviacorteen7344]

Just made one today, thank you for sharing, i have been wanting to do one with a zip but didn't know how,