Mérida Toiletry Bag
In this sewing tutorial, you’ll learn how to make a practical and easy zippered toiletry bag with interior pockets. Pattern included!
Project preview
This video is for members
Join Lulu Ferris to watch the complete class and sew along at your own pace.
What you’ll make
Sew the compact Mérida toiletry bag, a multipurpose zippered case that opens wide for a clear view of its contents. Two interior mesh pockets keep small items separated and secure.
Fold-over elastic gathers the pocket tops, while optional side stops limit how far the case opens. A fabric zipper strap provides a handhold and can be worn around the wrist.
Designed for menstrual products, the Mérida can also organize nail polish, essential oils, makeup brushes, school supplies or other small essentials.
What you’ll learn in this class
- Apply fold-over elastic to mesh with a stretch needle and zigzag stitch.
- Shape gathered mesh pockets with an inverted pleat.
- Prepare mirrored pieces and attach both sides of the zipper.
- Use pattern notches to control the curved zipper construction.
- Join the exterior and interior layers into stable units.
- Form the base and optional stops that control the opening.
- Make a fabric zipper strap and attach it with a ring.
Fabric and materials
The samples use coated, waterproof fabrics with enough body to hold the case’s shape. Their cut edges do not require the overcasting needed for fabrics that fray.
Poplin and other woven fabrics can be used, but thinner choices should be reinforced with interfacing and their raw edges overcast. The pockets use mesh topped with fold-over elastic.
Make it your own
- Adjust the mesh pocket divisions around the items you plan to carry.
- Leave off the side stops when you want the case to open farther.
- Bind the visible interior seam allowances for a cleaner finish.
- Add a wrist strap, pom-pom or another zipper-pull detail.
- Combine contrasting exterior and interior fabrics.
Finished size
The finished Mérida measures approximately 17 cm wide, 13 cm high and 5.5 cm deep at its widest point.
The class includes a downloadable A4 pattern with the main panels, mirrored zipper pieces and interior pocket pieces.
Pattern & materials
Patterns are included with membership
Active members can download every available PDF and materials list.
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