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How to Make Canvas Zip Bags Perfect for Valentine’s Day

Stitch up a set of simple canvas zip bags that are perfect for Valentine’s Day or any other occasion with our free zip pouch sewing tutorial.

white canvas zip pouches with red lettering and hearts on white tabletop

Recently I stitched up a set of zippered pouches to gift to my girlfriends on Valentine’s Day. The bags are so simple to create that you can stitch up a bunch in an afternoon. They are also a great project for a crafternoon!

About the Bags

white canvas zip pouches with red lettering and hearts on white tabletop

The bags are constructed from white canvas (sometimes called duck cloth). To soften my canvas I washed and dried the cut of fabric before I started sewing. I love how washing and tumble drying gives the canvas a soft, wrinkly texture. I’ve done this with a darker color canvas as well and have always loved how it turns out.

white canvas zip pouches with red lettering and hearts on white tabletop

The lining of the bags is created from Riley Blake quilting cotton. I took my inspiration for the colors on the front of the bags from the lining fabric.

white canvas zip pouches with red lettering and hearts on white tabletop

Zip Bag Designs

white canvas zip pouches with red lettering and hearts on white tabletop

I designed 3 different bags:

  • LOVE Zip Pouch
  • 3 Hearts Pouch
  • Red Heart Pouch

The downloadable template includes applique patterns for all 3 versions. Mix and match the appliques any way that you’d like.

Video Instructions

I’ve created a short video of the construction process. It’s a “sped up” version and should give you a really good overview of the construction steps to create the bags!

white canvas zip pouches with red lettering and hearts on white tabletop

Canvas Zip Pouch Tutorial

Melissa Mortenson
Create these adorable "love" and "heart" canvas zip bags perfect for Valentine's Day with our free pattern.
4.50 from 2 votes
Prep Time 31 minutes
Active Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 1 minute

supplies

  • 2 pieces Canvas 8" x 10" – I like to prewash my canvas before I use it to soften it
  • 2 pieces Lining Fabric 8" x 10"
  • 1 8" or 9" Zipper
  • 1 piece Heat N Bond Lite
  • 1-3 pieces Felt Color and quantity depends on which bag you are making
  • 1 Template fill out the form above

Instructions
 

Create the Applique

  • Download and print out the template for the hearts & "love".
    paper and templates on white cutting mat with hand and pencil
  • Trace the design you want onto the paper side of the heat n bond.
  • Cut out loosely.
  • Iron on the wrong side of the felt, according to the directions on the package of heat n bond.
    red felt and scissors on white cutting mat
  • Cut out again, precisely this time.
    hand holding red cut out heart

Attach to Bag

  • Remove the paper backing and place the cutout applique shape on the front of your 8" x 10" canvas bag piece.
    hand holding red cut out heart
  • Adhere it using your iron.
    3 hearts on white canvas
  • Stitch around the applique with your sewing machine close to the edge of the shape.

Create the Zip Pouch

  • Pin the right side of the zipper to the right side of the top of the canvas front piece (the piece with the applique).
    DIY Leather Trimmed Zippered Pouch by Melissa Mortenson of polkadotchair.com
  • Pin the right side of the lining piece to the wrong side of the zipper.
  • Using the zipper foot for your sewing machine, stitch in place.
  • Repeat steps with the other canvas and lining pieces on the other side of the zipper.
  • Press the seams away from the zipper and topstitch along the sides of the zipper.
    DIY Leather Trimmed Zippered Pouch by Melissa Mortenson of polkadotchair.com
  • Unzip the zipper.
    Pin the canvas pieces and lining pieces together, right sides facing. When you pin, be sure to have the teeth of the zipper facing the lining.
  • Stitch around the outside edge using a 1/2" seam allowance, leave a 4" opening in the lining.
    DIY Leather Trimmed Zippered Pouch by Melissa Mortenson of polkadotchair.com
  • Turn right side out. Test to make sure it zips properly.
  • Turn under the raw edges in the lining and stitch closed using a sewing machine or a hand sewing needle.
    white canvas zip pouches with red lettering and hearts on white tabletop

Video

Notes

If you need extra help constructing the zip bag portion of this pattern, you can find a more detailed step by step video tutorial saved on my Instagram Story highlights- visit my IG profile and click on the “Bag Sew Along”.
PRINT
Love this tutorial? Get the behind the scenes on Instagram

More Zip Bag Tutorials & Patterns

How to Make a Quilt As you go Pencil Pouch

Sweetheart Zip Pouch Tutorial

One Zip Pouch, 3 Ways

40 Free Zippered Bag Tutorials

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