Instructions on how to Create a Stylish Cross Stitch Eyewear Case with a Push Clip Closure

Creating a cross stitch eyewear holder with a push clip closing mechanism is a delightful project that combines practicality and creativity. Not only does this craft protect your eyewear, but it also showcases your embroidery skills. Whether you're a seasoned stitcher or just starting, this guide will lead you step-by-step in making your own stylish eyewear holder, perfect for personal use.

Materials Required

Before you start stitching, it’s essential to gather all your materials. Here’s a list of what you will need:

• Cross stitch fabric: I use vinyl canvas for a durable finish, approximately size is 7.5 inches tall and 3.5 inches wide. This size ensures your eyewear fits snugly without the holder being too bulky.

• Embroidery floss: Variegated hand over dyed yarn is simply yummy and gives such a character in combination with Metallic White Gold thread or choose colors that appeal to you, like pastel shades or vibrant hues.

• Needles: I use tapestry needle for the cross stitching and chenille needle for the assembly of the soft case as I am stitching through 4 layers of material.

• Interfacing: Felt adds additional support and safety for your glasses.

• Push clip closure: These are readily available at most craft stores—look for metal or strong plastic options.

• Scissors: For cutting both thread and fabric neatly. You can also use a rotary cutter and a mat board.

• Pattern: Is included in the kit I sell in my Etsy store.

With your materials in hand, you're all set to embark on your journey!

Materials required to make one case.

Cross Stitching the Case

Step 1: Start Cross Stitching the panels

This soft case for your glasses consists of two stitched panels, each the same size, each stitched separately before assembling the case. I like following these cross stitch instructions to make eyeglass holder by start with the back panel, before stitching the front panel especially if this is your first attempt to cross stitch or use variegated or metallic threads.

Stitches used to make this soft case

• Cross Stitch - consists of two straight lines, forming an X for each cross stitch worked individually (English Method) or in rows (Danish Method). The top thread should always lay in the same direction! The RSNSTITCHBANK (Royal School of Needlework) has amazing tutorial explaining both methods that I recommend watching.

• Back Stitch - is a basic flat stitch, worked backwards to create a continuous solid line. Pulling the needle up and going back into the previously hole. Again the Royal School of Needlework Stitch bank, RSNSTITCHBANK has an excellent tutorial explaining this stitch. Used in this design to emphasize design elements on the front panel and sewing the felt to the stitched top.

  
  

• Whip Stitch - is a simple diagonal stitch with a whipping motion used to sew two pieces together. Again the RSNSTITCHBANK has an excellent tutorial explaining this stitch.

Threads used to make this soft case

• Variegated threads - threads that have multiple colors within each skein. When stitching with this type of threads, I recommend using the English Cross Stitch method as each stitch is worked individually and thus brings out the amazing color variation within each skein.

• Metallic threads - threads that give a shiny, metallic appearance. They are made with a thin strand of metal or a metallic coating around a nylon, polyester or rayon. Stitching with a Metallic thread can be a bit tricky as it has the tendency to knot and split. I would use the Danish Cross Stitch method when working with metallic threads, work in rows when possible, making sure the top stitch lays in the same direction through out your panel. I also use relatively short thread, as it helps prevent splitting. Roughly around 20 inches or cut each DMC Skein into evenly 16 parts!

Start by threading your tapestry needle with three strands of the Hand Over Dyed embroidery floss or three strands of the Metallic White Gold floss and follow the pattern included in the kit, Pink eyewear case. Aim for consistent tension for a professional look.

Use the English Cross stitch method when using a variegated thread.

Once you’ve finished stitching both panels, trim any excess threads.

You’ll appreciate seeing your handiwork come to life!

Instructions on how to assemble the Eyewear Holder

Step 2: Sewing down Interfacing

Cut two pieces of fusible interfacing like a felt to match your embroidered top, half an inch bigger than the top. Attach it to the back of your stitched tops with backstitch for increased support and shape. Use a chenille needle to stitch all the way around, leaving the sides of the top open to insert the top clip. The chenille needle has a sharp point to help with stitching through layers. I also like to stretch the felt a little bit while stitching, so it becomes softer and molds to the top panel.

Stitching down the felt to the Cross stitched back panel.

Step 3: Cut the felt

Cut the felt as close to the top as possible except the top where you cut the felt in line with the vinyl top to give it a neat finish.

Cut the felt closely to the back stitch.

Step 4: Sewing the Edges together

Take both halves and put them together so the felt is hidden inside and the top part is facing up.

Hold the fabric firmly and use a whip stitch to sew the edges together making sure the holes line up, leaving the top open where the push clip will be attached. Remember to backstitch at both ends to secure your seams, which adds strength.

Whip stitching the edges of eyewear holder's together.

Attaching the Push Clip

Step 5: Inserting the Clip

Insert the clip that is included in the kit, between the felt and the stitched vinyl top.

Insert the clip between the stitched top and the felt.

For maximum functionality, ensure it opens and closes smoothly. Once the clip is in place, test its movement. If it feels overly tight, you may need to adjust the flap position or loosen any tight stitches nearby. A well-functioning clip is essential for ease of use.

Insert the pin to secure the clip.

When you are happy, insert the pin included in the kit to secure the clip. Your cross stitch eyewear holder is ready to be used!

Wrapping Up these Cross Stitch Instructions

Congratulations on making your very own cross stitch eyewear holder with a push clip closure! This project not only showcases your embroidery talents but serves a functional purpose—keeping your eyewear safe and stylish.

Final eyewear holder showcasing vibrant cross stitch patterns.

Now that you’ve completed one project, why not explore other cross stitching patterns? You could even create a matching set of accessories for your next crafting adventure!

Check out my other kits in my Etsy store.