
How to sew a Cork Sunglasses Case
Hola meos amigos! Hello my friends! Today, I'm thrilled to share one of my most popular tutorials on YouTube with you all. In this video, I'll guide you through creating a sleek cork leather sunglasses case in just five simple steps. This pattern is a bestseller, and I can't wait for you to dive in and make your own!
What You'll Need: Materials & Tools
To kick things off, let's gather our materials. To complete this project, you will need the following:
- Cork leather or fabric of your choice: Approximately 30x30 cm should be enough for one standard sunglasses case. I highly recommend a stiffer or thicker fabric (like cork leather) for better protection.
- Cutting Tools: Regular scissors and a thread trimmer.
- Marking Tool: Basic pencil.
- Closure: 1 snap button and a snap button setting tool.
- Setting Tool: 1 mallet (use this instead of a hammer to protect your tools).
- Adhesive: Glue for fabric or leather. I use Evo Stik 428 Contact Adhesive.
- Hole Punch: 1 leather hole punch.
- Optional Aid: Double-sided tape (very helpful for securing edges!).
- The Pattern: A sewing pattern for the case's design. You can create your own, or use my bestseller pattern to get the exact same result!
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Sewing Machine:
- I use the Singer Tradition, but for thicker fabrics, I recommend something strong like the Singer Heavy Duty.
- For dedicated leatherwork, I used the Craftool Pro Stitch Master (no longer sold, but here's the latest model from Tandy Leather).
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Thread:
- Gutermann Thread Beige for regular sewing machines.
- Thread Beige for leather sewing machines.
- Always check your machine's manual for the correct thread sizes!

Looking for a hassle-free option?
You can grab my DIY kit that includes all the materials and the sewing pattern – everything you need to get started right away!
The 5 Simple Steps to Your New Sunglasses Case
Step #1 - Cut the Fabric
First, flip your cork leather (or chosen fabric) to the wrong side. Using your pattern, carefully trace the outlines onto the material. Cork leather is a dream to work with as it doesn't fray, so any sharp pair of scissors will do the trick!

The cork I'm using, affectionately called "Rainbow Confetti," adds a pop of joy with its vibrant colours and glittery finish. It's sourced from Portugal, the world's leading producer of cork leather. If you're curious about this amazing material, read my blog article on cork leather to learn everything from its manufacturing process to care tips!
Step #2 - Prep & Sew the Edges
Now it's time to prepare our edges for a super neat finish. Fold in the raw edges and secure them with double-sided tape – this makes sewing much easier!

Start by securing and sewing only the straight edge, using a 1 cm seam allowance. If you have a logo, this is the perfect moment to add it using an embossing method while the fabric is flat.

Next, fold the freshly sewn edge to align with the beginning of the flap. This forms the main body, which is slightly wider than the flap. You should be looking at the wrong side of the fabric. Secure the sides with double-sided tape if you like, and then sew them down.

Step #3 - Add a Snap Button Closure
For a secure closure, I love using snap buttons. If you're using my sewing pattern, you'll find an indicator for where to make the hole. Otherwise, mark your preferred position with a pencil on the flap first.

Test the alignment by placing your sunglasses inside the case to ensure a snug fit. Once you're happy with the placement, use your hole punch to create the first hole on the flap. Then, use this hole and the glasses in the case to mark the exact position for the second hole on the main body. Punch that second hole.

Finally, set the snap buttons using your snap button setting tool and mallet. Give it a good tap to ensure it's secure!

Step #4 - Add a Protective Fabric Piece
To prevent the snap buttons from scratching your glasses, I add a protective piece of fabric to the interior. This simple step makes a big difference!
Cut a small piece of cork leather, about 1 cm larger than the snap button, to ensure enough space for the glue. Apply your contact adhesive (like Evo Stik 428 Contact) to this small piece and around the snap button area on the main case. Remember, for contact glue to work best, you need to let it get tacky for about 5 minutes.

Once it's tacky to the touch, precisely glue the small fabric piece onto the main body. Be precise, as it's hard to shift once it's on! Apply a lot of pressure to push out any air, which helps the glue bond securely.

Step #5 - The Grand Reveal: Turning the Case Inside Out
And now, the moment of truth! Carefully turn your newly sewn case right side out. Use a bone folder or a similar tool to define all the edges and corners, giving your case a crisp, professional finish. It's incredibly satisfying to see your hard work come to life!
I hope you've enjoyed this sunglasses case tutorial as much as I enjoyed creating it! Whether you're making one for yourself or as a thoughtful gift, I can't wait to see your creations. Don't forget to share them with me!
Ciao for now, and I'll catch you in the next video!