How to Sew a Pencil Case & Bookmark for Journals

In this post, you will learn how to sew pencil case and bookmark combo .

If you love notebooks, journals, planners, and cozy desk setups, this project is for you. This Pencil Case & Bookmark Combo is a simple, aesthetic sewing project that turns fabric scraps into something you’ll actually use every day.

Designed for beginners, this tutorial shows how to sew a pencil case and fabric bookmark that works perfectly with bullet journals, planners, study notebooks, and reading journals. It’s slim, soft, and practical, ideal for keeping pens, highlighters, and pencils right where you need them.

This DIY fabric pencil case is also a great fit for modern scrap sewing: no zipper, no hardware, no printed pattern, and no stress. Just a few small pieces of fabric, a short elastic, and a project you can finish in under 30 minutes.

Whether you’re sewing for your own journal setup, making a thoughtful handmade gift, or looking for an easy eco-friendly sewing project, this pencil case and bookmark combo fits right into everyday life.

Materials You’ll Need to Sew a Pencil Case & Bookmark Combo

Before you start sewing your fabric pencil case and bookmark combo, gather a few basic materials. This is a scrap-friendly sewing project, so small leftover pieces work perfectly, nothing needs to match unless you want it to.

These fabric options are all beginner-approved and easy to sew, making this project ideal if you’re learning how to sew a pencil case or how to sew a fabric bookmark for the first time.

Best Fabric Choices for a Fabric Pencil Case & Bookmark

The table below breaks down the best fabrics for sewing a DIY pencil case and bookmark, including recommended weights and helpful tips. Feel free to mix fabrics for a more playful, patchwork-style look.

Fabric Type	Why It Works	Recommended Weight	Notes
Quilting cotton scraps	Crisp, stable, and very beginner-friendly	Light–medium	Holds its shape well without interfacing
Linen scraps	Natural texture with a soft, relaxed look	Light–medium	Great for a rustic or boho-style pencil case
Denim scraps	Strong, durable, and kid-proof	Medium–heavy	Use a 90/14 needle for best results
Canvas scraps (optional)	Structured and long-lasting	Medium–heavy	Ideal for school pencil cases
Cotton from old shirts (optional)	Eco-friendly, soft, and easy to press	Light	Perfect for sustainable, scrap-based sewing

Using leftover fabric not only keeps this project eco-friendly and sustainable, but it also makes every pencil case and bookmark completely unique.

Basic Sewing Tools for This Beginner Project

You don’t need any special tools to sew this DIY fabric pencil case and bookmark, just a few everyday sewing essentials. Keeping things simple makes this project stress-free and perfect for beginners.

Tool	Why You Need It
Sewing machine	Straight stitching is all that’s required
Fabric scissors or rotary cutter + mat	Clean, accurate fabric cuts
Iron and ironing board	Pressing makes sewing easier and neater
Sewing clips or pins	Hold layers together without shifting

No zippers, no hardware, and no fancy tools, just the basics.

For a complete list of my favorite sewing tools (especially helpful if you’re drafting, upcycling, or working with patterns), check out my guide to the best sewing, pattern-drafting, and upcycling tools I use.

Why This Project Is Perfect for Scrap Sewing Beginners

Because this pencil case and bookmark combo uses small fabric pieces and simple construction, it’s an ideal project for:

• Practicing straight stitches
• Learning how to sew small accessories
• Using up fabric scraps sustainably
• Finishing a project in one sitting

Once you’ve gathered your materials, you’re ready to start sewing. Follow along with the video tutorial for clear, step-by-step guidance from start to finish.

How to Sew a Pencil Case & Bookmark Combo (Video Tutorial)

If you’re looking for a clear, beginner-friendly video tutorial on how to sew a pencil case and fabric bookmark, you can watch the full step-by-step sewing video below.

This tutorial shows the entire process from start to finish, including:

• cutting the fabric and elastic
• positioning the elastic bookmark correctly
• sewing and turning the fabric square
• folding the piece into a pencil case pocket
• finishing the pencil case and bookmark combo

The video follows the exact same steps and measurements as the written instructions, making it easy to sew along whether you prefer watching, reading, or both.

Prefer Written Instructions?

Scroll down for the complete written tutorial with cutting measurements, step-by-step photos, and beginner-friendly tips. The video and written guide are designed to work together so you can sew this project successfully on your first try.

Cutting Measurements (cm + inches)

Use these exact measurements to sew your fabric pencil case and bookmark combo. This project is designed to work with small fabric scraps, so precision here makes everything line up nicely later.

Fabric & Elastic Measurements

• Outer fabric:
  21 cm × 21 cm (≈ 8.25″ × 8.25″)
• Lining fabric:
  21 cm × 21 cm (≈ 8.25″ × 8.25″)
• Elastic band:
  25 cm long × 1 cm wide
  (≈ 10″ long × ⅜” wide)

Step 1: Cut Your Fabric Squares & Elastic

Cut the following pieces:

• 1 square for the outer fabric
• 1 square for the lining fabric
• 1 piece of elastic (25 cm / 10″)

Press all pieces so the edges are flat and easy to work with. This small step makes sewing cleaner and more accurate.

Step 2: Fold the Lining to Find the Center

Take the lining square and fold it in half vertically.

Press lightly or finger-press to mark the center top and bottom edges.

These two center points show you exactly where the elastic will be placed.

Step 3: Pin the Elastic to the Lining

Attach the elastic to the lining fabric:

• Pin one end of the elastic to the top center mark
• Pin the other end of the elastic to the bottom center mark

Make sure the elastic lays flat and straight, this will become the bookmark strap that wraps around your book or notebook.

Step 4: Layer the Outer Fabric on Top (Right Sides Together)

Place the outer fabric square on top of the lining square, right sides together.

Pin or clip around all edges to keep the layers from shifting while sewing.

Step 5: Sew Around the Square (Leave a Turning Gap)

Sew all the way around the square using a standard straight stitch.

• Leave a 4 cm (≈ 1.5″) gap unstitched on one side
• This opening will be used for turning the piece right side out

Backstitch at the beginning and end so the stitches don’t unravel.

Step 6: Trim the Corners

Snip the seam allowance diagonally at all four corners.
Do not cut into the stitches.

This reduces bulk and helps the corners turn out crisp.

Step 7: Turn Right Side Out & Press

Turn the piece right side out through the 4 cm / 1.5″ opening.

Use a chopstick, knitting needle, or blunt pencil to gently push out the corners.

Press the square perfectly flat.

Step 8: Topstitch Around the Square

Sew all the way around the square 0.5 cm (≈ ⅕”) from the edge.

This step:

• closes the turning gap
• gives the piece a clean, finished look
• stabilizes the shape of the pencil case and bookmark

Step 9: Fold the Square Into Three Parts

Now we form the pencil case pocket.

• Fold the bottom edge up, dividing the square into three equal sections
• Fold again so the shape resembles a simple pouch
• The top edges will form two small triangle folds, leave them open

These triangles create space for your pencils.

Pin or clip:

• both sides
• and the bottom edge

Do not pin or sew the top edge, it must remain open.

Step 10: Sew the Sides & Bottom of the Pencil Case

Sew the two sides and the bottom edge 0.5 cm (≈ ⅕”) from the edge.

• Leave the entire top fully open
• This is where the pencils slide in

Backstitch at the beginning and end.

Step 11: Press

Give the finished pencil case a final press to sharpen the folds and shape.

Your Pencil Case & Bookmark Combo Is Ready!

Slip the elastic around your book cover, tuck pencils into the pouch, and enjoy your new 2-in-1 planner and notebook companion.

Simple, practical, and made entirely from fabric scraps, a perfect beginner sewing project.

FAQ: Pencil Case & Bookmark Combo Sewing Tutorial

Is this a good beginner sewing project?

Yes! This project uses straight stitches and simple folds, so it’s ideal if you’re learning how to sew a pencil case or how to sew a bookmark. There’s no zipper, no tricky curves, and the steps are easy to repeat. The video tutorial helps a lot if you’re new to sewing.

Do I need interfacing to make it sturdy?

Not required. Quilting cotton holds its shape nicely as-is, especially with topstitching. If your fabric is very thin (like lightweight shirting), you can add a light fusible interfacing to the outer piece for extra structure. Denim or canvas scraps usually don’t need anything extra.

What fabrics work best for a fabric pencil case?

Quilting cotton, linen, canvas, and denim scraps are all great choices. For a soft, everyday pencil pouch, cotton is perfect. For a tougher school-ready DIY pencil case, use canvas or denim and a stronger needle (like 90/14). Mixing scraps is totally fine and adds a fun patchwork look.

How do I make the pocket bigger or smaller?

Keep it simple: increase the square size to make a roomier pouch (for example, 23–25 cm squares), or decrease it for a smaller case. The folding method stays the same, just divide the square into three sections when folding. Test with scrap fabric first if you’re resizing.

Can I sell these if I make them?

If this is your own original tutorial and design, yes, many makers batch-sew scrap projects for craft fairs and small shops. Use quality stitching, press well, and consider labeling them as handmade. If you used someone else’s pattern, check their licensing terms first.

Looking for More Fabric Scrap Sewing Projects?

If you enjoy beginner-friendly sewing projects and turning fabric scraps into something useful, here are more cute handmade gift ideas you might love. All of these projects are great for scrap busting, gifting, and quick sewing sessions.

Fabric Scrap Gift Ideas (Small & Handmade)

• DIY flower coasters from fabric scraps – a folded petal-style coaster design made with quilting cotton, perfect for small handmade gifts.
• Custom fabric coasters – a simple way to add color and personality to any home.
• Two fabric pouches – ideal for pencils, makeup, and all the little everyday things.
• Cosmetic bags made from fabric scraps – easy to sew and great for matching reusable gift bags.
• Sunglasses cases – a cute and practical addition to your purse or tote.

Scrap Fabric Projects for Books & Organization

• Book sleeves – perfect for protecting books, notebooks, journals, or even a tablet or MacBook.
• Fabric storage baskets – handy for organizing sewing supplies or packaging handmade gifts.
• Reusable gift bags – eco-friendly, cute, and reusable for holidays and everyday gifting.

Sewing Projects for Special Occasions

• Easy DIY Christmas gifts and present ideas – quick sewing projects perfect for holiday gifting.
• DIY lace bag tutorial – a stylish handmade bag that works beautifully as a gift or accessory.

Pencil Case and Bookmark Combo is Ready !

This pencil case and bookmark combo is one of those small sewing projects that quietly becomes part of your daily routine. Wrap it around your journal, planner, or notebook, slide in your favorite pens, and you’re ready for study sessions, journaling time, or creative planning.

Because it’s made from fabric scraps, it’s easy to customize, match your aesthetic, switch fabrics for the seasons, or make a few extras for gifts. It’s especially popular for bullet journals, study planners, reading journals, and cozy desk setups, which makes it a great project to sew again and again.

If you enjoyed learning how to sew a pencil case and how to sew a fabric bookmark, don’t forget to watch the video tutorial and save this project for later. It’s quick, beginner-friendly, and a perfect example of how small scrap sewing projects can still feel modern, useful, and beautiful.

In this post, you have learned how to sew pencil case and bookmark combo .

Disclaimer: All the patterns that I provide on this blog are for private and personal use only. You are not allowed to sell, distribute, modify, or share these patterns for any commercial or profit purposes. These patterns are my original creations and intellectual property, and I reserve all the rights to them. Please respect my work and do not violate these terms of use. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.