I was getting a bit tired (and depressed, really) of the white vinyl machine cover with black piping that came with my sewing machine. Last week I decided that I had put up with it long enough and I should make myself a new one. I took some pictures along the way and wrote a tutorial so you can make one, too. It's a simple design with the added feature of a handle slot so you can carry it with the cover on. You can leave this feature out if you want to simplify it even more. The directions work for any size sewing machine. It just requires you to make a few measurements or find the dimensions of your machine from the manual or manufacturer's website.
Here's what you will need (exact amounts will depend on the size of your machine):
- 1 yard of fabric for main piece
- Fat quarter for side pieces
- 1 1/3 yards of interfacing or stabilizer
- 2 yards of binding
- 2.5" x 10" scrap of fabric to match main fabric
- Scissors
- Sewing machine
- Matching thread
- Round object (approximately 2" diameter)
- Marking pen/pencil
Let's get started!
| In order to get the best fit, you will need to take several measurements. Use a ruler or measuring tape to find the following: - Height of your machine from the tabletop to the highest point when everything is folded up or put away - Width of your machine at the widest point not including the hand wheel on the right side (ease will take care of that) - Depth of your machine from front to back at the widest point - Distance of the handle from either side of the machine (it's probably not centered) and the length of the handle |
To determine the length of fabric to cut for the main part of your cover, compute the following: 2H + D + 1. In other words, multiply the height measurement by two, add the depth measurement, and add an inch for ease. There is no seam allowance required for this portion. To determine the width of fabric to cut for the main part of your cover, compute the following: W + 1 + 2SA. In other words, the width measurement plus an inch of ease plus a seam allowance of your choice for both sides (1/4" to 1/2" is sufficient).
To determine the height to cut your side pieces, compute the following: H + 1 + SA. In other words, height plus an inch of ease plus a seam allowance for the top only. To determine the width to cut your side pieces, compute the following: W + 1 + 2SA. In other words, width plus an inch of ease plus a seam allowance for both sides of the side piece.
Write all these new measurements alongside the diagram along the corresponding side. Double check all your original measurements and your calculated measurements.
Note: If you need a refresher on binding tape, this one is great.
Your done!
I love the way mine turned out. I even added my current mantra "Progress happens stitch by stitch" to one of the side panels to remind me that even a little work at a time adds up. And my sewing space looks so much brighter and cheerier. I hope this tutorial can do the same for you.