Looking for a fast and satisfying sewing project? Wristlet key fobs are the answer! These little accessories are incredibly popular, and for good reason. They make fantastic last-minute gifts that everyone appreciates. Plus, they’re a brilliant way to use up fabric scraps. If you’re wondering how to Sew Key Fob wristlets, this easy tutorial is for you.
This project is so loved that even my daughter’s assistant principal hinted for a new one when her old wrist lanyard started showing its age! Seriously, once you start making these, you’ll find friends and family requesting them again and again.
What You Need to Sew a Key Fob
This free sewing tutorial is perfect for using up those fabric scraps you’ve been saving. Each key fob uses just a small amount of fabric – two different pieces actually, one for the inside and one for the outside.
Here’s a breakdown of the materials:
- Fabric Strips: You’ll need two strips of fabric, each measuring 2’’ x 14’’. Choose coordinating or contrasting fabrics to personalize your key fob.
- Wrap Around Tab Fabric: A small scrap of fabric, about 3’’ x 3 1/2’’, is needed for the piece that wraps around the hardware and secures the fob. I like to use a piece that matches the inside fabric for a cohesive look.
- Interfacing: For stability, you’ll need a 3 1/2’’ x 14’’ strip of light to midweight fusible interfacing. Decor-Bond 809 from Pellon is a great option, but any similar interfacing you have on hand will work.
- Swivel Snap Clip: The final essential is a 1’’ swivel snap clip. These are readily available at craft stores like Joann Fabrics or Hobby Lobby. For larger quantities and better value, Amazon is an excellent source.
Many tutorials suggest metal clamps to finish key fobs, but I prefer sewing. Metal clamps can be unreliable, and who needs another specialized tool? Swivel snap clips are much more practical and secure. They allow you to easily attach your keys to your purse or bag – a feature everyone loves!
To add a touch of flair and simplify the process, I like to get creative with thread. Instead of constantly changing thread colors to match each fabric, I choose a thread color that coordinates with both the inside and outside fabrics. For topstitching, I use a bold triple stitch on my sewing machine, lengthening the stitch to 3 or 4 for a more pronounced look. A pink thread can look surprisingly stylish on gray fabric, and yellow thread really pops against turquoise! Using a single thread color for each key fob streamlines the sewing process. If your machine doesn’t have a triple stitch, a regular straight stitch with a lengthened stitch length will still look fantastic for topstitching.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Sew Your Own Key Fob
Ready to sew your own key fob? Follow these simple steps:
Cutting Your Fabric and Interfacing
For each key fob, cut the following pieces:
- One 2’’ x 14’’ fabric strip for the key fob outside.
- One 2’’ x 14’’ fabric strip for the key fob inside.
- One 3’’ x 3 1/2’’ fabric rectangle for the wrap around tab.
- One 3 1/2’’ x 14’’ strip of light to medium weight fusible interfacing (like Pellon Decor-Bond 809).
Gather these additional supplies:
- Coordinating polyester thread.
- Heavy duty sewing machine needle (size 90/14 or 100/16 recommended, Superior Topstitch Needles are a great choice).
- Iron and ironing board.
- One swivel snap or alligator clasp with a 1’’ opening.
Sewing the Key Fob Strap
- Place the two 2’’ x 14’’ fabric strips right sides together.
- Sew along one long edge using a 1/4’’ seam allowance.
Pressing for a Professional Finish
- Press the seam open to reduce bulk and ensure a flat strap.
- Fold the strap in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, and press. This creates a neat center crease and helps the fabric remember the fold for later steps.
- Open the fabric strip again. Place the fusible side of the interfacing strip against the wrong side of one of the fabric pieces. Ensure it’s centered. Press to fuse the interfacing to the fabric. Press firmly from the fabric side to ensure good adhesion, as cotton can handle heat better than interfacing.
- Fold each long raw edge of the fabric strip towards the wrong side by approximately 3/4’’. This fold should bring the raw edges to meet (or slightly overlap) the edges of the interfacing underneath. Refer to the photo for visual guidance.
- With both long edges folded and pressed, fold the entire strip in half again along the original center crease (right sides out now). Press flat. This encases all raw edges for a clean finish. Set aside the main strap piece.
Now, prepare the wrap around tab:
- Take the 3 1/2’’ square tab piece. Fold one of the 3 1/2’’ sides to the wrong side by about 1’’. Press.
- Fold the opposite 3 1/2’’ side over to the wrong side again, positioning the raw edge about 1/8’’ away from the first folded edge. Press. This creates a double-folded hem, concealing the raw edge and creating a neat tab. You should now have a tab piece approximately 1’’ x 3 1/2’’.
Topstitching and Final Assembly
- Set your sewing machine to a topstitching stitch length of 3-4. Optionally, switch to a triple stitch for a bolder look.
- Topstitch along both long edges of the 1’’ x 14’’ strap, sewing approximately 1/8’’ from the edge. This adds a professional touch and reinforces the edges.
- Change to a wide zig zag stitch on your sewing machine, setting it to the widest setting possible.
- Slide the swivel snap clip onto the topstitched strap. Bring the two ends of the strap together, butting them closely. Place the joined ends under the sewing machine foot and zig zag stitch back and forth several times, securely joining the strap ends together.
- Position the zig zag stitched join about 1 1/2’’ away from the swivel snap clip.
- Take the prepared wrap around tab. Wrap it around the joined strap ends, positioning the raw edge of the tab against the key fob strap (so it will be hidden). Tuck the short raw ends of the tab to the inside of the wrap.
- Adjust the tab until it is snug around the strap join, ensuring the swivel clip is securely held. Use a clip or pin to hold the tab in place.
- Sew two short, parallel lines of topstitching through all layers of the tab and strap, connecting with the existing topstitching lines on the strap. Backstitch neatly at the beginning and end of each line of stitching to secure. This stitching secures the tab and completes the key fob. You can add more topstitching for extra security or a decorative effect if desired, such as a square around the tab.
Tips for Customizing Your Sew Key Fob
- Fabric Choices: Experiment with different fabric combinations! Use bold prints, contrasting solids, or even repurpose fabric scraps from sentimental clothing.
- Thread Color: As mentioned, bold thread choices can add a unique design element. Consider metallic or variegated threads for extra flair.
- Hardware: While this tutorial uses a swivel snap clip, you can also use split key rings or other hardware to customize the function and look.
- Personalization: Add small embellishments like ribbon, buttons, or embroidery to make your key fobs even more special.
Whether you sew key fob wristlets for yourself or as thoughtful handmade gifts, they are sure to be a hit. I’d love to see your creations! Share photos of your finished key fobs on Instagram and tag me @sewcanshe or use #sewcanshe so I can admire your work.
Happy Sewing!
