Looking for a quick, satisfying, and useful DIY project? Key fobs are the answer! These handy wristlets are not only incredibly easy to make, but they also make thoughtful and personalized gifts. As a handmade gift expert, I’ve crafted countless key fobs, and I’m excited to share my step-by-step tutorial to help you create what I consider to be some of the Best Key Fobs out there. Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just because, these fabric key fobs are a fantastic way to use up fabric scraps and create something both practical and stylish.
In this tutorial, you’ll discover how to make durable and attractive key fobs that stand out. Whether you’re a seasoned sewer or just starting, this project is designed to be enjoyable and rewarding. Let’s dive into making some of the best key fobs you can DIY!
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[Click here for printable directions to follow!](https://drive.google.com/open?id=1wROZf1yB9QG7733H0qhcrPqz3D8KzuWw)
What You’ll Need to Craft the Best Key Fobs
To get started on creating your own best key fobs, gather these essential supplies. Choosing quality materials will ensure your key fobs are not only beautiful but also long-lasting and able to withstand daily use.
- Fabric: A fat quarter is sufficient to make approximately 8 key fobs. For enhanced durability, especially for everyday use, canvas fabric is highly recommended. However, quilting cotton also works wonderfully for a softer touch. Consider using designer canvas fabrics for a stylish edge.
- Batting Scraps: Warm & Natural batting is an excellent choice for padding. Cotton or cotton/poly blend battings are also suitable. Avoid polyester or wool battings as they are not ideal for this project.
- Key Fob Hardware: 1-inch key fob hardware is recommended for this tutorial. You can find these in various finishes like silver or antique bronze to match your fabric choices.
- Optional but Highly Recommended: Quick Turn Tube Turners: This tool is invaluable for turning fabric tubes right side out quickly and efficiently, saving you time and frustration.
- Thread: Durable thread is key. Aurifil thread is a top choice. For canvas, consider a slightly heavier 40wt thread for extra strength, though 50wt also works well. Select colors that complement your fabric or a contrasting color for a decorative stitch.
- Safety Pin with String: A DIY tool that works best for feeding batting into the fabric tube. Simply tie a length of string (around 20 inches) to a curved safety pin.
- Pliers: Slip joint pliers are perfect for securely clamping the key fob hardware. Key fob pliers are also available if you prefer a specialized tool.
- Rotary Cutter, Acrylic Ruler, and Cutting Mat: These are essential for precise fabric cutting.
For fabric, canvas offers superior durability, making your key fobs last longer with daily use. Brands like Cotton + Steel canvas and Ruby Star Society offer beautiful designs perfect for crafting best key fobs.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Own Best Key Fobs
Follow these easy steps to create professional-looking and best key fobs right at home. This tutorial is perfect for batch making gifts or creating a set for yourself!
Step 1: Cutting Fabric Strips
Begin by cutting fabric into strips. For each key fob, you’ll need two 2 1/2″ x 12″ strips. If you’re making multiple key fobs, layer your fabric to cut several strips at once, speeding up the process.
Step 2: Sewing the Fabric Tubes
Fold each strip in half lengthwise, right sides together. Sew along the raw edge with a 1/4″ seam allowance. For enhanced durability, use a shorter stitch length. As you approach the end, about 1/4″ from the edge, pivot the fabric and sew across the bottom edge to create a closed end, which aids in turning the tube.
Step 3: Turning Tubes Right Side Out
Use a Quick Turn tube turner to invert the fabric tubes. This tool makes turning even canvas fabric, known for its sturdiness, a breeze.
To minimize bulk, especially when using canvas, open the seam with your thumb as you turn the tube.
Step 4: Preparing for Batting Insertion
Trim off the sewn closed end of the fabric tube, cutting away about 1/2″ or less to create a clean opening.
Press each tube flat, centering the seam on what will be the back of the key fob.
Step 5: Insert Batting
Cut batting scraps into strips approximately 7/8″ x 13″. These will provide padding and structure to your best key fobs.
Attach your safety pin with string to one end of a batting strip. Feed the safety pin through the fabric tube, ensuring the string remains outside.
Attach the safety pin to the end of the batting strip, piercing it twice for a secure hold.
Gently pull the string to guide the batting into the tube, ensuring it enters smoothly and straight.
Keep the tube and batting aligned and flat while gently pulling the string to insert the batting fully. This technique helps prevent twisting and keeps the seam open. Remove the safety pin once batting is in place.
Step 6: Top Stitching for a Refined Finish
Top stitch along both long sides of the tube, approximately 1/8″ from the edge. A seam guide can be helpful for maintaining a consistent distance. Increase your stitch length slightly for topstitching. Stitching with the seam side up can sometimes provide better control.
Step 7: Trimming and Squaring Ends
Trim any excess batting and fabric from the ends of the tubes to square them off. A precise, clean edge ensures a professional finish for your best key fobs.
Step 8: Attaching Key Fob Hardware
Now it’s time to add the key fob hardware. Use pliers to clamp the hardware securely onto the fabric.
To protect the hardware finish, cushion the pliers’ teeth with batting scraps.
Fold a fabric tube in half, seam inwards, and insert the raw ends into the key fob hardware. Center the fabric to avoid uneven sides.
Position the pliers in the center of the hardware and clamp down firmly.
Turn the pliers sideways and clamp again on each side to ensure a tight grip.
Flip the key fob and repeat clamping on the other side to secure the fabric completely. This step is crucial for making best key fobs that are durable and safe.
Step 9: Adding the Key Ring
Finally, attach the key ring to the hardware to complete your DIY key fob.
Repeat these steps to create as many best key fobs as you need. In just a short amount of time, you can have a collection of stylish and practical accessories or gifts!
I managed to create 40 best key fob wristlets in under two hours! This efficiency makes it a perfect project for gifting occasions.
Personalize your gifts by adding tags. For holiday gifts, consider tags that say “Merry Christmas from your family” to add a personal touch to these best key fobs.
It’s incredibly satisfying to have so many gifts ready in advance!
If you love these but prefer not to DIY, check out my Etsy shop for ready-made options!
Remember to save this tutorial on Pinterest, so you can easily revisit it whenever you need to make more of these best key fobs!
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