If you love sewing projects that are both practical and creative, an organizer with a fabric divider is the perfect project to try. It’s a beginner-friendly sewing idea that allows you to experiment with design while creating something useful for everyday life. From storing craft supplies to keeping your personal items neatly arranged, this organizer will quickly become a favorite in your home.
One of the best parts about making your own organizer is that you can customize it to fit your needs. Whether you want it to hold quilting supplies, stationery, or even makeup, the design is versatile enough to adapt. By following a clear quilt pattern, you can create dividers that add structure and style to your organizer.
This tutorial will walk you through everything you need to know: the materials, the step-by-step process, and fun personalization ideas. By the end, you’ll not only have a new organizer but also gain sewing skills you can apply to other quilt projects.
Materials You Will Need
Before you begin, gather all the materials you’ll need for this project. Having everything prepared in advance will make the sewing process smoother and more enjoyable. You’ll need:
- Fabric (two coordinating prints for the outside and lining)
- Lightweight quilt batting or fusible interfacing
- Fabric for the divider
- Sewing machine and matching thread
- Scissors or rotary cutter and cutting mat
- Ruler and fabric marker
- Pins or clips for securing pieces
When selecting fabrics, think about how the organizer will be used. If it’s for craft supplies, consider sturdy cotton or canvas for durability. For quilting enthusiasts, using quilt fabrics with a beautiful quilt pattern adds an extra touch of charm. The batting or interfacing provides structure, making the organizer stand upright.
Once you have all your materials ready, set up your sewing space with good lighting and plenty of room. This project doesn’t require advanced tools, so it’s great for beginners who want to practice sewing straight seams and working with quilt layers.
Cutting the Fabric Pieces
The first step is cutting the fabric into the right shapes and sizes. For this project, we’ll create a medium-sized organizer. Cut the following pieces:
- Two outer fabric rectangles: 14” x 10”
- Two lining fabric rectangles: 14” x 10”
- Two batting rectangles: 14” x 10”
- Divider fabric: 12” x 9” (cut two pieces, plus batting if desired)
When cutting, use a rotary cutter for clean edges and a quilting ruler for accuracy. Precision is key, especially if you want your organizer to look polished and professional. Mark lightly with a fabric marker where seams will go, so you can line up everything evenly.
If you want to add a quilt design, this is the perfect stage. You can quilt the outer fabric rectangles to the batting by sewing straight lines or a simple quilt pattern. Not only does this add stability, but it also gives your organizer a decorative, handmade finish.
Sewing the Divider
Now it’s time to create the divider that will separate the compartments inside your organizer. Take the two divider fabric pieces and place them right sides together. If you’re using batting, sandwich it between the two fabric layers. Pin or clip along the edges to secure.
Sew around the edges with a ¼” seam allowance, leaving a small opening for turning. Once sewn, clip the corners and turn the divider right side out. Press it flat with an iron, then topstitch around the edges to close the opening and give it a neat look.
If you’d like, you can add quilting stitches to the divider as well. A simple quilt pattern of diagonal lines or grids makes the divider stronger and more visually appealing. This small touch adds both durability and style to your finished organizer.
Assembling the Organizer
With the divider ready, you can begin assembling the main body of the organizer. Place one outer fabric rectangle right side up, layer the divider in the center, and then place the second outer fabric rectangle right side down on top. Clip or pin everything securely.
Sew along the sides and bottom, leaving the top edge open. Once sewn, you’ll have a pouch-like shape with the divider stitched inside. Repeat the process with the lining fabric pieces, but leave a 3” gap at the bottom for turning later.
After sewing both the outer shell and the lining, insert the lining into the outer shell, right sides together. Line up the top edges and sew all around. This creates a clean finish when the organizer is turned right side out through the gap left in the lining.
Adding Structure and Finishing Touches
Turn the organizer right side out through the lining gap, then push the lining inside the organizer. Press everything flat with an iron, making sure the edges are crisp. Topstitch around the top edge to secure the layers and give a professional finish.
At this point, your organizer should be taking shape with a sturdy fabric divider in the middle. If you want more structure, you can sew a few stitches at the bottom of the divider to hold it in place, preventing it from shifting as you use the organizer.
Don’t forget to close the opening in the lining with a simple hand stitch or machine stitch. Once finished, you’ll have a fully functional organizer that looks neat and polished—perfect for keeping small items under control.
Personalization Ideas
One of the joys of sewing your own projects is the ability to personalize them. For example, you could use fabric featuring your favorite quilt pattern to make the organizer uniquely yours. Bright, cheerful fabrics work well for craft storage, while neutral tones create a sleek look for office use.
You could also experiment with adding exterior pockets for extra storage. Simply sew a smaller rectangle onto the front of the outer fabric before assembling. This gives you space for pens, scissors, or other small tools. Adding a snap, button, or Velcro closure is another great way to secure items inside.
If you’re feeling creative, consider turning this basic design into a quilted organizer with multiple dividers. By repeating the divider steps and stitching them at different points inside, you can create compartments for different categories of items. The possibilities are endless.
Conclusion: Share Your Handmade Organizer
Congratulations—you’ve just created a functional and stylish organizer with a fabric divider! This project combines the beauty of quilting with the practicality of everyday storage. It’s a fantastic way to practice sewing while producing something you’ll actually use.
The simple quilt pattern stitches not only add charm but also make the organizer sturdier. Whether you keep it in your sewing room, office, or bedroom, this handmade item brings order and beauty to your space. Plus, it makes a thoughtful gift for friends and family who appreciate handmade items.
Now it’s your turn to inspire others. Share your finished project on social media or with your quilting community. Seeing different fabric choices and quilt styles will spark new ideas for everyone. Happy sewing—and may your new organizer keep your world beautifully arranged!