DIY Key Fob: A Quick & Easy Scrap Fabric Tutorial

Updated at: 24/03/2025

Tired of your keys rattling around in your bag, looking dull and unorganized? Spice up your everyday carry with a unique, handmade key fob crafted from scrap fabric! This simple project is perfect for beginners, utilizing readily available materials and requiring minimal sewing skills. It's a fantastic way to repurpose those beloved fabric scraps lingering in your craft box, transforming them into a stylish and functional accessory. Think vibrant patterns, cozy textures, or even a personalized touch with embroidered initials – the possibilities are as limitless as your fabric stash.

Forget expensive, mass-produced keychains; you can create a beautiful and personalized key fob in minutes using this quick and easy tutorial. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, from selecting your fabric to creating the final, polished product. Get ready to unleash your creativity and add a touch of handmade charm to your keys!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Scrap fabric (3.5 inches wide x 10 inches long)
  • Fusible interfacing (same length as fabric, half the width)
  • Metal key fob tab
  • Iron
  • Scissors
  • Pins or clips
  • Pliers
  • Scrap wadding (optional)
Safety Guidelines
  • Always ensure the fabric is securely attached to prevent the key fob from falling apart and losing your keys. Use strong stitching and consider adding extra reinforcement like interfacing.
  • Avoid using fabrics that are too bulky or stiff, as this can make it difficult to use your key fob. Opt for thinner, more pliable materials.
  • Do not use fabrics that might fray easily or weaken over time, especially if the fob will be exposed to the elements. Choose durable materials for longevity.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fabric

    • Fold fabric in half and press to create a crease.
    • Apply interfacing to one side of the folded fabric.
    • Iron one edge in at just over a quarter of an inch, then iron the other edge in at just over half an inch.
    • Fold the fabric in half again, matching the ironed edges, and press.
    Fold the fabric in half again, matching the ironed edges, and press.Fold the fabric in half again, matching the ironed edges, and press.Fold the fabric in half again, matching the ironed edges, and press.Fold the fabric in half again, matching the ironed edges, and press.
    Prepare the Fabric

  2. Sew the Fabric

    • Sew along the open edge (1/8 inch from the edge) using a 3.5 stitch length.
    • Flip the fabric and sew the other edge (1/8 inch from the edge).
    Flip the fabric and sew the other edge (1/8 inch from the edge).Flip the fabric and sew the other edge (1/8 inch from the edge).
    Sew the Fabric

  3. Prepare the Tab

    • Cut off a small bit (about 1/4 inch) from the top.
    • Partially close the metal key fob tab with pliers.
    Partially close the metal key fob tab with pliers.Partially close the metal key fob tab with pliers.
    Prepare the Tab

  4. Assemble the Key Fob

    • Insert the fabric into the metal tab.
    • Add a piece of wadding (optional) and fully close the tab using pliers.
    Add a piece of wadding (optional) and fully close the tab using pliers.Add a piece of wadding (optional) and fully close the tab using pliers.
    Assemble the Key Fob

Read more: DIY Super Cute Whale Shower Curtain: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

Tips

  • Use pins or clips to hold the fabric together before sewing.
  • Adding a decorative stitch down the middle is optional.
  • Be careful not to press too hard with the pliers, to avoid damaging the metal tab and fabric.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Fabric Too Thin or Stretchy

Reason: Thin or stretchy fabrics will not hold their shape well, resulting in a flimsy and unprofessional-looking key fob.
Solution: Choose a sturdy, non-stretchy fabric like canvas, denim, or felt for a more durable key fob.

2. Incorrectly Sewing the Seam Allowance

Reason: An inconsistent or too-small seam allowance can lead to a key fob that is difficult to turn right-side out or that doesn't fit the key properly.
Solution: Maintain a consistent seam allowance (around 1/4 inch) and carefully trim excess fabric before turning right-side out.

FAQs

What kind of fabric works best for a DIY key fob?
Almost any sturdy fabric will work! Cotton, linen, felt, and even canvas are all great choices. Avoid anything too flimsy or stretchy.
Do I need a sewing machine for this project?
No, this tutorial is designed to be easily completed by hand. A sewing machine can speed up the process, but it's not essential.
How do I attach the key ring to the finished key fob?
You'll typically sew a loop of strong thread or ribbon to the finished fob before attaching the key ring. Alternatively, you can use a small jump ring.