Looking for easy sewing projects that are both practical and fun? This beginner-friendly guide is the perfect starting point. Whether you’re hoping to use up leftover fabric scraps or searching for meaningful sewing gift ideas, this DIY headphone case and charging cord organiser set offers the ideal mix of creativity and functionality.
This step-by-step tutorial walks you through everything—from choosing the right materials to mastering basic stitching techniques. It’s a great way to build your confidence while getting to know your Singer sewing machine, such as the SINGER® Heavy Duty 4423, which handles compact projects with ease. Best of all, these small-scale makes deliver instant satisfaction without the time commitment of full garments or home décor.
Materials You Will Need
To begin, gather the materials below. Choosing quality fabrics and tools makes a big difference in your final product:
- Outer fabric (cotton, canvas, or denim work well)
- Lining fabric (lightweight cotton or waterproof PUL)
- Fusible interfacing or thin batting (for structure)
- Zipper or snap (for the case closure)
- Velcro, snap, or button (for the organiser closure)
- Coordinating thread
- Fabric scissors or rotary cutter
- Pins or clips
- Ruler or measuring tape
Recommended SINGER accessories:
- SINGER® Zipper Foot – for precise zipper installation
- SINGER® Fabric Scissors – for clean, accurate cuts
- Fabric marking pen - for precise lines and zipper placement.
Step 1: Cut Your Fabric Pieces
For the DIY headphone case, decide whether you want a circular or rectangular design. A circle gives a coin purse-style pouch, while a rectangle offers more room for other small items.
For a rectangular case:
- Cut two outer fabric pieces (12cm x 12cm)
- Cut two lining pieces (12cm x 12cm)
- Cut two interfacing pieces to match
For the cord organiser:
- Cut two rectangles (10cm x 15cm)
- Cut one interfacing piece to match
Iron the interfacing onto the wrong side of your outer fabric pieces. Interfacing adds structure and helps your case and organiser keep their shape. If you're using batting, baste it to the fabric with a few stitches or temporary spray adhesive.
Step 2: Install Your Zipper (For the Headphone Case)
Use the zipper foot attachment for best results. Place your zipper face down along the top edge of the outer fabric, then sandwich it with a lining piece on top. Stitch along the zipper edge, being careful to keep your seam straight.
Once one side is stitched, flip the pieces right side out and press. Repeat on the other side. Then, topstitch along the zipper for a clean, professional look. Topstitching also prevents the fabric from getting caught in the zipper teeth.
Step 3: Sew the Case Together
Now that your zipper is in place, open it halfway (important so you can turn the project right side out later). Place your outer fabrics right sides together and your lining fabrics right sides together. Sew around the perimeter, leaving a 5 cm gap in the lining edge for turning.
Clip the corners to reduce bulk, then turn the entire case through the zipper opening. Use a point turner or blunt object to push out corners neatly. Stitch the lining closed with a narrow topstitch and tuck it into the case. Give the whole thing a final press using a warm iron.
Step 4: Construct the Cord Organiser
The cord organiser is even easier, making it one of the best sewing projects for beginners. Place your two organiser rectangles right sides together. Stitch around all sides, leaving a 5 cm opening on one long side. Clip corners, turn right side out, and press flat.
Topstitch around all edges to close the opening and add durability. Finally, attach a piece of Velcro, a snap, or a button with a loop closure at each short end. Make sure to align them properly before stitching. You can also add a small strap or loop to attach it to bags or keychains.
Tips for Best Results
- Press every seam as you go. Pressing not only makes sewing easier but also creates a polished final product.
- Use coordinating thread to hide imperfections or contrasting thread to make decorative topstitching pop.
- Choose high-quality interfacing that suits your fabric. Lightweight interfacing works for quilting cotton; use heavier fusible for canvas.
- Sew slowly over bulky seams, especially near zipper ends. The SINGER® Heavy Duty 4423 handles layers well, but going slow improves control.
- Test on scraps first if you're unsure about settings, especially tension and stitch length.
This Project is Great for Beginners
Small-scale projects like this help beginners focus on sewing basics without getting overwhelmed. You learn critical skills like zipper installation, turning, topstitching, and seam finishing. These are foundational techniques that apply to more complex creations later.
Additionally, this project is customisable. You can personalise the fabric, add labels, or incorporate embroidery. Because of their practicality and personal touch, they make excellent sewing gift ideas for friends, family, or even clients.
So fire up your SINGER® sewing machine, pick out your favourite fabrics, and stitch something uniquely yours—and never lose your earbuds or cords again!