40 Projects That Will Make You Bust Out the Sewing Machine

Sitting down at a sewing machine for the first time can seem like a scary task, but we promise it’s easy once you get the hang of it. Whether you’re just learning how to stitch a straight line or you’re already a pro at reading patterns, there are endless possibilities to what you can create. So we’re sharing a whopping 40 projects for you to tackle, no matter your sewing skill level.

1. Drawstring Bag: Consisting of simple straight lines and forgiving measurements, this bag is a practical project for a beginner. (via Brit + Co)

2. Leather Tablet Case: Protect your precious tablet with a leather case that is way easier to make than you think. Another bonus: The entire project only costs $12. (via Brit + Co)

3. Patterned Apron: Don’t be intimidated by this kitchen-friendly project. It takes 10 minutes or less and it’ll open a whole new world of wardrobe sewing projects for you. (via Paper & Stitch)

4. Seat Cushions: Is that chair making you go numb? Bring it back to life with an easy-to-make cushion in a festive print. (via Brit + Co)

5. Laundry Basket: Ideal for dorms, this simple laundry basket will keep your discarded clothes looking cute. Regardless of what they’ve been through. (via A Beautiful Mess)

6. Basic Tote Bag: A great project to teach the kids how to sew, this bag is just a bunch of straight stitches. Cart around your groceries at the farmer’s market or stow your kiddo’s pajamas in it for a sleepover. (via Brit + Co)

7. Pocket Square: Have a wedding coming up? Or maybe your fella is hunting for a little extra pizzaz? This one is almost too easy. (via Brit + Co)

8. Sleeping Bag: Got some glamping in your future? You’ll *need* these colorful sleepers. (via A Beautiful Mess)

9. Napkin Rings: Elevate your next dinner party with these *adorable* napkin rings. (via Make and Tell)

10. Poptart Pillow: This case is so SWEET, it’ll have you craving the real thing. (via Aww Sam)

11. Kimono: Here’s a great, lightweight way to jazz up your basic t-shirt and jeans or take your maxi-dress game to the next level. (via Brit + Co)

12. Outdoor Pouf: Practice your stitches and make something good for your porch. This is one project that you’ll be using all season long. (via A Kailo Chic Life)

13. Crossbody Bag: What do you get when you combine a pretty dishtowel and 20 minutes? An adorable new crossbody bag. This would also make a great gift, if you can bear to part with it. (via A Kailo Chic Life)

14. Dog Bed: Help your pup savor every minute of their precious sleep with a floral-printed puppy bed. (via Sarah Hearts)

15. Turban Headband: Dreaded second-day hair is a thing of the past. Tame your flyaways, hide greasy roots, and look totally chic while doing it. (via Brit + Co)

16. Blanket Pillow Cover: Grab that blanket that’s been sitting in your linen closest and give it new life as a pillow cover. (via Brit + Co)

17. Crib Sheets: Got a little babe on the way? Make these precious ones built for pint-sized sleeping quarters. (Psst: These make for a great gift too!) (via Lovely Indeed)

18. Cactus Pillows: Succulents are all the rage right now, and even a brown thumb gardener can keep these babies alive. The free-form shapes are super forgiving and will give you a taste of sewing curved edges. (via Brit + Co)

19. Baby Bloomers: We can think of *many* reasons why to sew these tiny baby bloomers, and that cheery pattern is just the start. (via Lovely Indeed)

20. Colorful Pennant: Dying to host a summer party, but don’t want to drop alot of cash? This one’s for you. By using cardstock and a sewing machine, you’ll be saving a ton on some statement-making decorations. (via Hey, Let’s Make Stuff)

21. Fabric Basket: Corral loose toys, keep throw blankets out of sight, or use them to get your living room clean when the unexpected guest drops by. It’s almost impossible not to find a use for these fabric baskets. (via A Little Craft In Your Day)

22. XOXO Pillows: Show your couch a little love with these graphic pillows. Once you learn how to create your own shapes, the possibilities are endless. (via Brit +Co)

23. Camera Strap: It’s no secret that we love a good photoshoot here at Brit + Co. Now you can hold your own at home with this stitched strap that’s sure to help you get all your snaps. (via Club Crafted)

24. Passport Holder: Make ’em for your family or for yourself. This tutorial will teach you how to sew passports for the whole crew. (via Hello Creative Family)

25. Drawstring Backpack: An on-the-go pack that’s practical and trendy too? Sign us up for this one! (via Hello Wonderful)

26. Fabric Pocket Planter: You’ve mastered the sacred art of indoor gardening, so now you can work on perfecting your skills. This bag is the ideal size for your everyday succulents or herbs. (via Club Crafted)

27. Maxi Dress: No wardrobe is complete without a great maxi dress. Stop denying yourself and get stitching. (via Brit + Co)

28. Butterfly Chair: Kick up your feet and take a load off. You deserve it after getting through this project. (via The Proper Blog)

29. Rope Rug: Scour your local craft store’s scrap bin and make a new statement rug for any room. You’re going to need a little extra space for this project, so clear off the kitchen table. Mama’s got work to do. (via A Beautiful Mess)

30. Reusable Snack Sacks: Stop wasting all those ziplock bags and make something worthy of housing your snacks. Oilcloth fabric makes these easy to clean, and the velcro enclosure means they won’t spill in your purse. (via Brit + Co)

31. Canvas Laundry Bag: Alright, so you’ve got the DIY pillow down. Upgrade your skills with this technicolor piping project that’ll put your needle and thread to the test. (via A Little Craft In Your Day)

32. Thrifted Dress to Two-Piece: Did you find a great printed dress at the thrift store, but the fit is all wrong? Transform that drab dress into a killer two-piece. Wear them together, or don each separately. It’s like getting three new outfits for the price of one. (via Brit + Co)

33. Stencil Dress: Expect to spend about a day and a half on this project. We promise, the final product is definitely worth all the hard work. (via Handmade Charlotte)

34. Window Seat: Whip up this seat and keep it stocked with a cozy throw, a stack of books, and pillows for all the rainy days ahead. (via Lovely Indeed)

35. Book Clutch: Rescue an old book from the trash and resuscitate it into a cute, kitschy clutch. (via A Beautiful Mess)

36. Rainbow Pouf: On the days when R&R calls, this rainbow pouf will keep you resting easy — without even leaving the room. (via The House That Lars Built)

37. Hammock Chair: Make this chair with a quick trip to the hardware store and an hour at the sewing machine. Everyone will be fighting over the cool seat hanging out in the corner. (via A Beautiful Mess)

38. From Bootcut to Skinny Jeans: Have a closet full of bootcut jeans, but find that you’re more of a skinnies girl these days? Don’t drop a ton of cash on new jeans. Instead, add a zipper down each side and treat yourself to a spa day with the money you saved. (via Brit + Co)

39. Skort: No, your eyes aren’t playing tricks on you… the skort is back! Make sure you stay on trend with this modern version. (via Brit +Co)

40. Reupholstered Storage Ottoman: Does that ottoman have great bones, but horrible, outdated fabric? Don’t pass it up; patch it up! (via Brit + Co)

How will you exercise your sewing skills this month? Let us know @BritandCo!

Additional reporting by Ashley Tyler

The tote bag has been a style staple for generations, and it's not going anywhere. You can use tote bags to pack a big picnic, hit the beach, go to work, or prep for a yogaclass... the list is endless. I personally have too many tote bags to count, but I am always looking to add to my collection. There's no better place to shop for totes than Amazon, and I found 6 handy bags that'll be able to handle your everyday essentials while still looking super cute!

Amazon

Lhmtqvk Corduroy Tote Bag

This classic tote bag design comes in so many different patterns. It's perfect as a reusable grocery bag, but still has inner pockets for your phone, keys and wallet. I would easily get five of these bad boys, because they are only $10!

Amazon

WantGor Corduroy Tote Bag

This corduroy tote bag is durable and spacious to fit anything you may need. I love the front pocket design that allows you to quickly throw your phone or a small book in. Bonus – the zipper ensures nothing gets misplaced or slips out, and you can keep everything snug inside the bag. You can buy this tote bag in 11 colors for $16.

Amazon

Valleycomfy Vintage Casual Corduroy Tote Bag

In comparison to other tote bags, I love this one with structure. This square-shaped vintage tote is very versatile. You can bring it to the beach, to work, or to run errands. The added messenger bag strap also allows for the convenience of slinging it over your shoulder! Make this your go-to summer bag for $17.

Amazon

Homespon Large Canvas Tote Bag

Pockets for days! I love when everything has a specific spot in my tote bag. This tote would be perfect as a carry-on or even a school bag. The external pockets give you easy access to the items you need more frequently, and its only $20!

Amazon

Barsine Large Tote Bag

This is the best everyday bag I have seen in a while! The inside of this tote bag is an organized dream, with plenty of room for all your essentials like pens, makeup tubes, and more! You can find this bag in 8 two-toned colorways for $28.

Amazon

Bag Wizard Laptop Tote Bag

I am obsessed with the leather-canvas material on this tote. It can be dressed up or down depending on what you're up to. This tote bag design gives you a lot of space on both the inside and the outside, thanks to the additional pockets. You can shop this bag in 7 different color options for $31.


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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Lead image via Amazon.

My best friends mean the world to me, and though I wish I could give them the world, this year, I just want to get them gifts that are as special as our friendship. Whether it’s a personalized pendant, a cute skincare set, or the lip shade they simply can’t stop talking about, I want them to know just how much I care about their companionship! Thus, I’ve curated the ultimate list of gifts for best friends to help you gift your besties something they’ll truly love, especially if it comes from you. These gifts are so good, I really want them for myself, too.

Our 40 favorite gifts for best friends:

Scroll on to see the absolute best gifts for best friends to give in 2024!

Amazon

1. Scent Beauty by Sabrina Carpenter Cherry Baby Eau de Parfum

Leave it to Sabrina Carpenter to influence my list of gifts for best friends. Her "Cherry Baby" scent carries sultry notes of vanilla, peony, cherries, and chocolate, which is the perfect aroma for a night out with the girls.

Summer Fridays

2. Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm

This lip balm is viral for a reason. Your besties' lips deserve all the instant moisture, color, and shine this tube provides. This brown sugar shade looks decadent AF, but you can also snag it in other fun 'flavors' like iced coffee and mint.

Urban Outfitters

3. Camp Snap Screen-Free Digital Camera

For the one that's always documenting the friend group's antics, they'll enjoy taking this unique, screen-free digicam on nights out, weekend trips, and cozy nights in! It captures film-style photos (without the time-consuming film photography process), and it can be used over and over again since it's rechargeable.

SeaVees

4. SeaVees Hayward Platform Shoes

Moccasin-style shoes are super popular this winter. I love how comfortable SeaVees' shoes are, so I might just have to share the love with my besties this holiday season... and snag a pair for myself so we can match, of course!

Dieux

5. Dieux Angel Face Cleanser + Moisturizer Bundle

Dieux is one of my go-to skincare brands for effective products that still take it easy on my sensitive skin. Their Baptism cleanser, part of this giftable duo, provides a nice clean without stripping any moisture from my skin. I also use their Instant Angel moisturizer religiously in the wintertime since things tend to get real dry. I'd say you can confidently gift this set to besties of any skin type.

Anthropologie

6. By Anthropologie Monogram Heart Locket Necklace

Personalized gifts will always feel special. Kick this gift idea up a notch by inserting a little pic of you and your BFF in the locket before wrapping and handing it over!

Urban Outfitters

7. Baggu Mini Nylon Shoulder Bag

I carry this Baggu bag just about everywhere I go. It's perfect for happy hours or dinners since it's small and not too much of a hassle to tow along, but don't let its size fool you: this baby can fit a lot. Your most stylish best friend will be wearing it the moment they open their gift!

Target

8. Jingle & Mingle 5 Days of Rosé Wine Set

You can never go wrong with rosé, baby! This gift set carries 5 personal-sized bottles of different varieties for them to sip on around the holidays.

Kulfi Beauty

9. Kulfi Beauty All Night Out Eye Set

This eye makeup set is complete with a bold eyeliner shade and a shimmery pot of eyeshadow. You get to choose the exact shades of each before purchasing, so this is truly one of the most fun personalized gift ideas. The set also comes with a funky pair of mismatched hair clips – so cute!

Dame

10. Dame Massage Oil Candle

This soothing candle melts down into a sweet-smelling massage oil that's easily dispensable, thanks to the pointed spout on the glass. This is a great gift for your single and partnered pals alike, whether they're using it to wind down themselves or for sexy time with their S.O.!

Life is Good

11. Life is Good 'I Deserve A Little Treat' Boxy Crusher Tee

Everyone deserves a little treat. Wrap up this awesome (and comfy!) tee alongside your bestie's favorite snack, sweet treat, or freshly-baked dessert to totally nail their gift this year!

Compartés

12. Compartés Pistachio Sea Salt Chocolate Truffles

These aesthetically-pleasing truffles could be the perfect sweet treat in question!

Nordstrom

13. OSEA Super Glow Body Set

I know anyone in my close friends circle would be happy to be gifted some nice skincare goodies. This luxe set from OSEA comes with a body wash, oil, and serum to keep skin looking and feeling happy!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

I live for a purse that has a pop of color or pattern that complements what I’m wearing, but mom life has taught me there’s beauty in a simple black tote bag. They’re a chic way to elevate your t-shirt and sneakers, making them the most multifaceted accessories you can own.

Here’s a little secret though: black tote bags may look similar at first glance, but they aren’t all created equal. Little details like the texture, stitching, and lining of one can give it a different vibe from another. It’s likely that you love paying attention to detail which is why I have 8 amazing options to share with you!

And P.S. You don’t have to be a mom to rock one (or two) of these black tote bags!

Shop Our Favorite Black Tote Bags

Coach Willow Pebble Leather Tote

I'm biased, but Coach has the best black tote bags IMO. This design features subtle gold details that give it personality without overwhelming the bag. Also, the pebble leather and internal fabric lining means you don't have to fret about carrying something you won't be able to wear longterm. It even has a special place your cell phone so you'll know where it is when you need it.

Anthropologie Faux Leather Commuter Tote

Everything about this sleek black tote bag is calling our names! Okay, I'm exaggerating here. What I will say is you'll be surprised at how easy it is to clean it. All you need is a damp cloth and you'll be good to go! Plus, you'll get a more expansive outer pocket that'll allow you to slip your favorite book club read in it or your kindle!

Madewell The Zip-Top Medium Transport Leather Tote

This team loves Madewell's bags, and the Zip-Top Medium Transport Leather Tote is no exception! The leather is great quality, the shape allows for plenty of storage, and the double straps offer carrying versatility. Classically cute and subtly sophisticated to say the least!

CALPAK Haven Laptop Tote Bag

This laptop tote bag is HIGH on my spring wish list because it's like it was designed for specifically for those of us who carry our laptops around. If you work from home and need to get out of the house, you can place your laptop in it and head to your local book store. What I especially love is that the laptop sleeve is removable and the shoulder strap is adjustable. It doesn't get any better than this!

Everlane The Recycled Nylon Tote

If you decide to get some done in your apartment complex's resident lounge, all you need is this medium-sized tote by Everlane. It's designed to fit a 13" laptop along with a couple of notebooks if you need them. The extra padding inside helps keep your technology safe from bumps and bruises while the pockets help you store your writing utensils.

If that didn't catch your attention, the fact that this tote bag is certified by the Global Recycled Standard will! It's made of recycled nylon and polyester so you'll have something sustainable on your arm.

Rebecca Minkoff Megan Large Leather Tote Bag

Want to have something that's subtly chic? Reach for Rebecca Minkoff's larger leather tote bag. It comes with shoulder straps that'll fit comfortable on your shoulder and it has an open top with a magnetic strap. Inside you'll find an internal divider that helps you organize your items a little better. There's a chance you may still throw things in your bag, but at least you'll know to look on a specific side!

Reformation Medium Vittoria Leather Tote

This slouchy black tote bag from Reformation is absolutely everything! It gives effortless, it gives put together, it gives...plenty of room for whatever you need to pack for the day! Plus, the bow on top is the perfect finishing touch that's both timeless and on trend!

Tory Burch Ella Tote

Tory Burch is another classic brand that knows how to creative simple yet effective designs that fit seamlessly into your everyday life. Instead of a zipper, this tote bag features a magnetic closure that makes opening and closing it easy! There's also two different pockets to store or separate your items!

I'd personally wear this if I'm running errands and want to look put together while wearing one of my casual spring outfits.

Dreubea Soft Faux Leather Tote

This faux leather tote may look pricey but it's actually less than $20! The price alone makes it a viable option for anyone who's a part of the chic on the budget club. The other thing I love about it is that it includes a bigger pocket inside and a smaller external one. For easy access, slip your lip oils in the outer pocket when you need to moisturize your lips throughout the day!

MANGO Faux Leather Shopper Tote

Have a little more to spend? This $50 tote from MANGO is so chic with its adjustable straps and longer body. I love how you can get that pebbled leather look for so much less!

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Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Header image via CALPAK

Our favorite dancing queens (Meryl Streep included) might be returning to the big screen for a third encore of Mamma Mia! and we’re already rewatching the first two movie musicals in preparation.

In an interview with Deadline in May of 2023, Mamma Mia! franchise creator and producer Judy Craymer said a third movie musical is in "earliest stages." She also shared that she has come up with a way to bring Meryl Streep back again.

"I don't want to over-egg it," she said of the unofficial news, "but I know there's a trilogy there…and I do think Meryl should come back, and if the script is right, she would, I think, because she really loved playing Donna."

"Of course I want to do it," Streep said during the 2024 Cannes Film Festival (via Deadline). Sounds promising to us!

Is Mamma Mia 3 happening?

Universal Pictures

Yes, Mamma Mia 3 is in its early planning stages! Christine Baranski just told The Hollywood Reporter that she's met with producer Judy Kramer, and that Kramer has plans for the third movie. "She gave me the narrative plotline of how it’s going to happen," Baranski says. "That’s all I can say! But, it’s not like, 'Oh, I wish it could happen!' Judy Kramer makes things happen. She made number two happen, and it was a phenomenal hit. I wouldn’t put it past Judy Kramer to get everybody back together."

Universal Pictures

A third installation was first mentioned way back in 2020, during a Collider interview with Mamma Mia! star Amanda Seyfried. Seyfried said she was on board — and at the time, she thought the rest of the star-studded cast would be too.

"Listen, every single person in that movie would say yes in a heartbeat because we want to hang out with each other," Seyfried told Collider at the time. "That's what we talked about last time, like did we ever think that we'd end up here again on an Island in Croatia?"

When will Mamma Mia 3 come out?

Universal Pictures

We don't have an official answer about when to expect this highly anticipated sequel. The project is in the "earliest stages," according to creator and producer, Judy Craymer. Cher also revealed to Entertainment Weekly that everyone is "talking about it," but she doesn't "know when they're going to do it."

Has casting information been shared about Mamma Mia 3?

Jonathan Prime/Universal Studios

While nothing's been made official, Amanda Seyfried just said something that made my heart skip a beat. She told ABC News she loves Sabrina Carpenter's music and dropped this admission: "If Sabrina Carpenter wants to play my daughter, I’ll make it happen."

But before she admitted that, the actress said something else that made me raise my eyebrows. "Everybody says it’s gonna happen, but I mean, I haven’t seen a script."

Cher is also eager to return to the beloved franchise and is rooting for Meryl to make an appearance again. "I keep saying, 'Meryl, you've got to come back,'" she said (via Entertainment Weekly). She also said she's told her, "'It'll be fun. You'll have a good time. You'll be able to sing.'"

I don't know what it'll take, but hope someone gets a script in Amanda Seyfried, Cher, and Meryl Streep's hands ASAP!

What is the first Mamma Mia about?

Universal Pictures

The first film follows Donna (Streep) and Sophie (Seyfried) as mother and daughter living on a remote Greek island. When Sophie is about to marry Sky (Dominic Cooper), she sets out to learn who her real father is after discovering it could be one of three men (played by Pierce Brosnan, Stellan Skarsgard, and Colin Firth).

Who does the second Mamma Mia follow?

Universal Pictures / NBCUniversal

Mamma Mia 2takes viewers back to 1979, where young Donna (Lily James) embarks on a series of adventures throughout Europe following her Oxford University graduation. On her journeys, she makes the acquaintances of Harry, Bill and Sam – the latter whom she falls in love with. In the present day, pregnant Sophie dreams of renovating a taverna while reuniting with her mother's old friends and boyfriends on a Greek island island.

TBH, we’re pretty happy that Mamma Mia! is far from over, and we can’t wait to see what the franchise has in store for us next. Stay updated on all the latest entertainment news with Brit + Co.

This post has been updated.

There's nothing ~normal~ about how much we love Normal People's Paul Mescal & Daisy Edgar-Jones. While it turns out we're not getting a Normal People season 2 (yet), the two actors are starring in some of 2024's biggest blockbusters (Twisters and Gladiator II, namely), and we've been soaking up their presences ever since.

Paul recently exhibited his ongoing friendship with Daisy at the Gladiator II premiere in Los Angeles. While he approached Brittany Broski on the red carpet for an interview, he recognized her from her recent 'Royal Court' interview with Daisy:

"You were with Daisy!" he chimed in excitingly. We just love this power duo!

Enda Bowe/Hulu

Daisy Edgar-Jones also revealed that she's remained incredibly close to Paul Mescal after their time on Hulu's Normal People. "Paul is one of my lifetime best friends," she says. "He’s an incredibly grounded person and I am too, I think, so it’s nice to be able to have those touchstones and those people you can laugh about it with and be lighthearted with. We met when I was 20 and Paul was 22; I’m so excited to see where we’ll be at 32, 42, and what life will bring us."

But the coolest thing is that not only is Normal People special for Paul and Daisy, but they've also been able to see the effect of the show on its fans.

"The thing I love people saying the most is, 'It made me contact my ex,'" Daisy continues. "Especially when much older people say, 'I just wanted to reach out to the person I was with when I was 17 just to say you were a big part of my history and thanks for being part of who I am, the tapestry of my life.' And that I really love, because I’m a massive romantic."

Daisy recently revealed they bonded over their training for Twisters and Gladiator II.

"I did running lessons — isn’t that crazy?" she told Variety. "Actually, Paul [Mescal] and I were laughing about it, because he was training for 'Gladiator II' and I was training for 'Twisters,' and obviously he had to be huge and I was like, 'Don’t worry, I’m going to be right up there with you.'"

Let us know your favorite Normal People moment in the comments and check out 5 Leading Ladies We'd Love To See In A Paul Mescal Rom-Com.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.