Turning Out Twice Fully Lined Projects

In this Sweet Pea Studio guide, Martyn demonstrates how to create and turn out a fully lined project, using the Tropical Phone Case and Lemon Lane Glasses Case design as an example.

Features of our phone and glasses case designs

• No visible joins
• Seamless interior and exterior
• Easy to turn inside out
• Minimal hand stitching (~3 inches)
• Optional use of craft glue or iron-on web instead of sewing

Design Process

Cut fabric pieces with curved corners for easier handling. Sew two rows of stitching to form the main body. Keep edges close to the stitching line. 

Leave a 2-3 inch opening at the bottom for turning. Mark the turning area clearly.

Trim excess fabric, especially around curves, to reduce bulk, using sharp scissors for clean cuts.

Pull out any bag stiffener or extra stabiliser from the turning hole. 

Carefully turn the project through the opening, then again to the outside. Use gentle pressure to avoid tearing.

Press edges to create smooth curves. Use a pressing cloth for best results.

Trim any ragged edges or excess stabiliser and attach a press stud or snap at the top for secure closure.

Optional Steps

For a fully lined look, sew lining fabric inside before final assembly.

For projects with zippers, sew the zipper in, then turn through the same method, catching the zipper in the seam.

Special Techniques & Tips

• Origami Method: The turning process is akin to folding fabric like origami, creating a neat, seamless finish.
• Stabiliser Use: Tear-away stabiliser keeps fabric stable during sewing; remove excess after turning.
• Edge Finishing: Use a lighter or Emery board to burn off or smooth any remaining stabiliser pieces.
• No Zipper Needed: The process works well without zippers, but zippers can be incorporated with careful seam catching.

Additional Project Example: Zipper Pouch

Zipper pouches also require turning out in a similar method. However, this process involves catching the zipper in the seam during the second turn. The main thing to remember here is to remember to turn it out once normally, then again through the zip.

Thank you for joining us at Sweet Pea Studio. Creating and turning out a fully lined fabric project can seem difficult but hopefully this guide helps you become a pro in no time. We hope you enjoyed this tutorial and feel inspired to create your own seamless, fully lined fabric projects!