How to Sew a Terry Toweling Makeup Bag (Washable, Practical and Perfect for Travel) – Sewing
If you’ve ever had a makeup bag ruined by a leaky foundation or a damp bathroom bench, you’ll understand immediately why terry toweling is such a good fabric choice for this project.
This handmade makeup bag is soft, absorbent, washable, and sturdy enough to hold its shape — even when it’s stuffed with brushes, bottles, and all the bits we swear we don’t need but absolutely do.
It’s roomy without being bulky, zips fully closed, and feels more like a proper toiletry case than a flimsy cosmetic pouch.
This is one of those sewing projects you’ll make once… then make again for gifts.
Why Terry Toweling Works So Well for Makeup Bags
Terry toweling isn’t just for towels and bathrobes — it’s ideal for makeup and toiletries.
- Absorbs spills instead of spreading them
• Washes beautifully
• Soft but durable
• Forgiving to sew
• Perfect for travel and bathrooms
Paired with a cotton lining, it creates a bag that’s practical, not precious.
Finished Size & Use
This makeup bag is designed to:
• Sit upright on a bench
• Open wide so you can see what’s inside
• Hold makeup, brushes, skincare, or toiletries
• Be tossed straight into the washing machine if needed
It’s ideal as:
• A makeup bag
• A toiletry pouch
• A travel cosmetics case
• A gym locker toiletries bag
What You’ll Need
- Terry toweling fabric (outer)
• Medium-weight cotton fabric (lining)
• Fusible interfacing (light to medium weight)
• One zipper (longer than the bag opening)
• Matching thread
• Pins or clips
• Sewing machine
• Iron - Weekender-Bag (1)
Helpful tip: Terry toweling has bulk. A walking foot helps, but isn’t essential if you sew slowly.
Cutting Your Fabric
Cut:
• 2 outer pieces from terry toweling
• 2 lining pieces from cotton
• 2 zipper panel strips (outer + lining)
Apply interfacing to the lining pieces only — this adds structure without making the bag stiff or hard to turn.
Sewing the Zipper Panel
Sandwich the zipper between one terry toweling strip and one lining strip, right sides together.
Sew along the zipper edge, then flip both fabrics away from the zipper and press carefully (use steam and a pressing cloth if needed).
Repeat for the other side of the zipper so it’s fully enclosed.
Terry toweling can shift — take your time and keep edges aligned.
Attaching the Main Bag Panels
Place the zipper panel right sides together with one terry toweling bag piece. Stitch across the top edge.
Repeat with the lining piece on the opposite side of the zipper panel.
When laid flat, the zipper should sit neatly in the centre with the bag panels extending on either side.
Sewing the Bag Body
With right sides together, fold the bag so the outer fabrics face each other and the lining faces lining.
Pin around the sides and bottom, leaving a turning gap in the lining. This step matters — don’t skip it.
Stitch around the bag, reinforcing the top corners near the zipper.
Boxing the Corners (So It Stands Up)
To give the makeup bag a structured base:
- Pinch each bottom corner into a triangle
• Measure evenly from the point
• Stitch straight across
Repeat for both outer fabric and lining.
The deeper this seam, the wider the base of the bag.
Turning & Finishing
Turn the bag right side out through the lining opening.
Push out corners gently, roll seams between your fingers, and press where possible.
Close the lining opening with a neat topstitch or hand stitch, then tuck the lining inside the bag.
Give the zipper area a final press and you’re done.
Optional Upgrades
- Add a small internal pocket for brushes
• Use waterproof lining fabric
• Add a wrist strap
• Make a matching washcloth from scraps
A Makeup Bag That Makes Sense
This isn’t a “look nice on Instagram” project — it’s a use-it-every-day makeup bag.
The terry toweling absorbs mess, the lining adds polish, and the structure keeps everything where it belongs. It’s washable, practical, and sturdy enough to last years.
And honestly? Once you’ve used a terry toweling makeup bag, it’s hard to go back.
