It is January, the month of fresh starts and decluttering! If your New Year’s resolution involves getting organized, you are in the right place. Fabric baskets are the unsung heroes of home organization – they are soft, washable, and far more stylish than plastic tubs!
Whether you need to corral toy cars, organize your fabric stash, or tidy up your vanity, sewing your own bins is the way to go. You get to choose the exact colors and sizes that fit your shelves. Plus, these projects are incredibly satisfying because they come together quickly.
In this post, I am sharing a curated list of the best fabric basket sewing patterns. I have included everything from beginner-friendly buckets to clever modular boxes. If you have been wondering how to sew fabric storage bins that actually hold their shape, these patterns have you covered.
Why You Should Sew Your Own Storage Bins
Sewing your own storage is a game-changer. Here is why:
- Custom Fit: You can make them fit specific cubbies or drawers.
- Eco-Friendly: Use up your fabric scraps or upcycle old jeans and linens.
- Washable: Unlike wicker or plastic, most fabric bins can go right in the wash.
- Giftable: They make excellent gift baskets for baby showers or housewarmings.
Before we dive into the paid patterns, I want to share a special project right here on icansewthis.com. If you want to learn how to sew round fabric baskets in two colors, this is the perfect starting point.
This free pattern allows you to play with color blocking to match your room perfectly. It includes three sizes (Small, Medium, and Large) so you can create a coordinated set.
- Materials: Cotton fabric in two colors and batting (or interfacing for more structure).
- Skill Level: Total beginner-friendly.
- Time: Around 1 hour or less once you get the hang of it.
Click here for the Free Round Fabric Basket Pattern & Tutorial
17 Best Fabric Basket Sewing Patterns
From heavy-duty bins for your linen closet to clever modular boxes for your bookshelves, these picks cover every organizing need.
Each of these patterns offers something unique – like different handle styles, reinforced bottoms, or reversible designs – to help you customize your home exactly how you like it.
#1 6-in-1 Design Storage Basket by YarnovationsShop
This pattern is a dream for beginners. It features one main basket size but gives you six different fabric design looks.
You can use denim from old jeans or even bed sheets. It includes options for sewn-in or separate linings and 3 different handle styles. It is a great way to learn the basics of construction!
#2 Nesting Fabric Baskets by Polka Dot Chair
If you love a coordinated look, these nesting baskets are perfect. You get three sizes in one pattern. They look adorable sitting on a shelf together when full, or tucked inside each other when empty.
This is an advanced beginner project that teaches you how to handle curves and optional handles.
#3 5-Size Fabric Bucket by HoneyandSugarStudio
This pattern is all about variety. With five sizes ranging from extra-small to extra-large, you can organize everything from paperclips to large plush toys. It includes a video tutorial, which is a huge bonus for visual learners.
You will learn how to use interfacing and wadding to get that professional, structured shape.
#4 DIY Storage Caddy with Handles by TikkiLondon
This caddy is designed for functionality. It measures about 10 inches wide, making it a great size for sewing supplies or baby essentials.
The sturdy handles make it easy to carry from room to room. It is a fun project that lets you show off your favorite prints!
#5 Lagom Storage Bins by SotakHandmadeShop
“Lagom” is the Swedish word for “just the right amount,” and these bins live up to the name. They are clean, modern, and reversible.
The pattern includes five nesting sizes and provides both metric and imperial measurements. There is also a video tutorial to guide you through the process.
#6 Fabric Bubble Baskets by EmelsHandicraft
These “bubble” baskets have a unique, rounded look that adds a soft touch to any room. This PDF pattern includes three sizes and a link to a YouTube tutorial.
They require very little fabric – just 1/4 yard of interface, fabric, and lining – making them a budget-friendly choice.
#7 Basket Bunch by StudioMSquared
Need a basket in a hurry? This “Basket Bunch” can be whipped up in less than an hour. The magic is in the clever folding and stitching.
You only need two squares of fabric and some stabilizer. It is perfect for quilting cotton or linen, and the instructions cover three different sizes.
#8 Storage Cube Box by SageSewingPatterns
If you want the look of store-bought cubby bins but with a handmade touch, this is the one. These boxes use cardboard inserts for serious structure.
The best part? You can remove the cardboard to collapse or wash the fabric. They are modeled after standard cubby sizes for a perfect fit in your shelving units.
#9 Flower Shape Nesting Baskets by OhohDeco
These baskets have a unique flower-like shape when finished. They are reversible, giving you two looks in one. The pattern includes three sizes (6, 9, and 12-inch diameters).
Even absolute beginners can follow these step-by-step instructions to create something that looks high-end.
#10 Modular Fabric Box by ArabesqueScissors
This is a must-have for quilters. These boxes are specifically designed to fit the Ikea Billy bookcase. They essentially turn your shelves into drawers.
Each box includes a clear vinyl pocket for labels, so you can catalogue your fabric stash by designer or color. They are reinforced with stiff interfacing to keep them sturdy.
#11 5-Size Fabric Storage Bin by SweetRedPoppy
This pattern comes from a well-loved name in the sewing community. It is a confident beginner project that works well with heavier fabrics like canvas, denim, or twill.
With five sizes, you can organize your whole house. The printable tutorial is very detailed and easy to follow.
#12 Tubby Boxes by RosieTaylorCrafts
These “Tubby Boxes” are great for organizing a desk or a sewing table. You can choose between a plain version or a patchwork version to use up your smallest scraps.
The pattern offers four sizes and is perfect for anyone who wants to practice applying binding (though it is not strictly required).
#13 Nesting Baskets by KathieSewHappy
These baskets are designed for high-traffic areas. Use them at the front door for keys and sunglasses, or at a changing table for diapers. They make wonderful baby shower gifts that grow with the child.
The pattern includes three sizes and focuses on making organization fun.
#14 Reversible Toy Bin by StephanieJos
This pattern is a ticket to a stylish nursery. These bins are fully reversible and come in three sizes.
They are sturdy enough to hold toys but soft enough for a baby’s room. The tutorial is very beginner-friendly and guides you through customizing the colors to match your decor.
#15 Button Up Storage Box by PinkPonyDesign
These are “storage miracles” because they store completely flat when you aren’t using them! When you need a basket, you just button up the corners. They take less than an hour to sew and are fully washable.
They come in three sizes, but the pattern includes tips on how to adapt it to any size you want.
#16 5-Size Reversible Basket by NatkoPatterns
If you want to upgrade your houseplant game, these baskets are perfect for hiding old flower pots. They are easy to sew, reversible, and come in five sizes.
They work for everyone from students to craft enthusiasts. Turning the basket inside out gives you a completely different look in seconds!
#17 3D Bird Applique Basket by BlueOwlLand
This pattern is a little bit different and very charming. It features an original 3D bird design on the side. The best part? It requires no interfacing or batting.
Instead, it is designed to upcycle cardboard boxes, making it very sturdy and eco-friendly. It is the perfect size for holding folded fat quarters!
Pro Tips for Sewing Fabric Baskets
If you are new to sewing storage bins, here are a few tips to help you get professional results:
Choose the Right Interfacing
The secret to a basket that doesn’t collapse is the interfacing. For smaller baskets, a medium-weight fusible fleece works well. For larger bins, you might want something stiffer, like Pellon Peltex or Annie’s Soft and Stable. This gives the fabric “body” and helps it stand upright.
Use Heavy-Duty Fabrics
While quilting cotton is beautiful, fabrics like canvas, denim, and home decor weight cotton are naturally sturdier. If you use a thin fabric for the exterior, consider using a heavier fabric for the lining to add strength.
Press Your Seams
Don’t skip the ironing! Pressing your seams as you go makes a huge difference in how the final basket looks. Crisp edges make the bin look more like furniture and less like a floppy bag.
Get Creative with Upcycling
You don’t always need to buy new fabric. Old jeans are perfect for sturdy bins. You can also use heavy curtains from a thrift store or even sturdy upholstery samples.
I hope this roundup helps you find the perfect project to kickstart your organization goals. Whether you are sewing a tiny bowl for your jewelry or a massive bin for your yarn stash, these fabric basket sewing patterns are a fun and practical way to spend a winter afternoon.
Happy sewing, and enjoy your newly organized home!
You might also love:
- 11 best beanie hat sewing patterns for the whole family
- The ultimate list of 30 cool things to sew for kids
- The best sewing patterns for handmade gifts
Let’s keep in touch! You can find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.
Related posts