Keep embroidery scissors protected and at your fingertips with these sweet little pouches and fobs…they make lovely gifts for your favorite crafter too!
Although many of these free patterns have been shared for years here on Tipnut, some of my long time favorites are no longer available online so plenty of fresh goodies have been added (new collection updated April, 2022).
Anyone who does needlework knows how important it is to have a special pair of snips set aside just for thread work. Not only can they cut threads close, the tiny tips can be used to pull stitches.
When they’re tucked safely into their own little case, chances are a lot slimmer that they’ll be temporarily “pinched” by someone in the household for their own arts & crafts projects (or worse: to cut open a mail order package–ouch!). These are “mom’s” and not to be used. At least that’s the dream!
I’ve included a a nice range featuring assorted techniques, fabrics & materials (such as felt, leather, aida cloth, quilting cotton, denim, beads, etc.). Some are hand sewn, some quilted.
Most are for the small embroidery scissors but there are a few designed to fit the larger sewing shears. Many are easily adaptable–simply tweak & adjust sizing to what you prefer.
Skill levels vary from Beginner to Intermediate/Advanced, there are quite a few cuties here that are ideal for new needleworkers to make.
I’ve also added several different charts at the bottom that can be used to embellish your assorted pieces.
As always here on Tipnut, only those tutorials that are free without an email submission or membership required are included in this collection. If I’ve made a mistake or if availability has changed since being added to the galleries, please let me know in the comments area below so I can remove it.
Directions: Click on images to view project pages you are interested in, a new browser tab should open (so you don’t have to worry about losing your place here.) Enjoy!
Scissor Pouches & Cases
Hexagon Flower Case
Ideal for a standard pair of 3 1/2″ stork scissors but sizing can be adjusted as required. Tutorial via pdf download (full instructions plus pattern pieces), there’s also a nice video tutorial showing how to make it.
Source: vintagesewingbox.co.uk
Elastic Loop Closure
For projects on the run, here’s a nifty idea for keeping a pair of snips safe & secure in its case.
Source: maychappell.com
Triangle Pocket
Includes a link to the cross stitch chart for “Wildflower Hearts” by Caron, both inner & outer pieces are Aida cloth but I’m sure the inner lining could be anything you like.
Source: litlaskvis.wordpress.com
Neck Ribbon Caddy
With a handful of fabric scraps, assorted ribbons & polyester stuffing, this nifty gadget will hold a pair of scissors, a gauge, needle keeper & pincushion.
Source: sewing.org
Felt Sheath w/ Mini Biscornu Fob
Something so simple yet it’s all that’s needed to protect the blade. A wee project made lovely. There is a chart for the biscornu.
Source: sumoftheirstories.com
3-Pockets
This clever design will hold 3 pairs of scissors: 2 in the front and one in the back.
Fusible interfacing is used to strengthen the fabric so it will hold the weight.
Source: mycottoncreations.blogspot.com
Zipped Cozy
Sized for a larger pair of shears but shouldn’t be too difficult to downsize for embroidery snips if that’s what you’re wanting.
Source: sotakhandmade.blogspot.com
Snapped Keepers
Supplies: Wadding & 505 spray (or fusible fleece); quilting cotton (complimentary for outer and inner lining); KAM snap or press studs; matching thread. Includes a pdf download.
Source: beautifulthingshq.com
Hot Pad Holder
Sometimes you can find the cutest potholders at the dollar store, here’s what you can make with them. Super easy!
Source: craftyjournal.com
Quilted Mini Case
Now isn’t this something! There are two sizes to choose from, this is the mini version (a larger one is also freely offered). Features a handy side pocket to stash tools (such as a threader, pin book, floss cards, etc.) and a place to stick your needles.
Source: weallsew.com
Leather Sheath
Can easily be made for whatever size you like, leather or vinyl scraps can be put to good use here. Pattern is provided.
Source: adagiostyle.blogspot.com
Know Your Presser Feet
Wow, this can store & organize several pairs in assorted sizes (along with other gadgets such as seam rippers). Hang this on the wall or fold it & pack away in your work bag.
Source: handmadeharbour.blogspot.com
Wrist Cuff
How do people come up with these ideas? So creative! This little guy wraps around your wrist (custom fit) & secured in place by velcro.
Source: feelingstitchy.com
Extra Tools Pocket
Here’s a great idea for using larger scraps or fat quarters & it promises you can whip one up in just about an hour. Basic supplies required including fusible fleece & coordinating thread. Free pdf pattern to print out.
Source: weallsew.com
Decorative Felt
Here’s a nice & simple idea, simply trace a pair (for sizing) then use a running stitch on the top layer to make a decorative outline of the scissors, line with cotton fabric (both pieces) and sew together. The top part (handles) is left open to pull out the snips.
Source: cutoutandkeep.net
Beaded Holder
There are several different designs to choose from (3 for large pairs–4 1/2″; 2 for small–3.75″) plus a pdf to download with all the instructions needed.
Source: beadingbelles.blogspot.com
Project Gallery
Here are more goodies to check out that have a variety of features. Some may be pretty similar but there’s usually a feature tweak or two that differs (or the method in how it’s made).
How To Make Fobs & Dangles
These are nice little additions to keep pins & needles handy or just to find your little snips easily when they’re buried in a kit.
Petit Strawberry Pincushion
A sweet take on an old favorite, this little charmer just needs a couple scraps of fabric (each less than 4″ square), poly fill to stuff and embroidery floss or ribbon to attach.
Source: vanessachristenson.com
Mini Biscornu
Includes a link to the free design (Getting Squared Away) then shows how to assemble and stitch it all together to make this wee charmer.
Source: stitchinkatspawprintsblog.blogspot.com
Bead & Cap
Pretty smart! A rubber knitting needle cap is transformed into a tips protector, dangle is assorted pretty beads strung on nylon thread (attached with a lobster claw).
Source: cindissewing.blogspot.com
More – Gallery
Tassles, Cross Stitch embellishments & other lovelies…
Embroidery & Cross Stitch Patterns
This is where I stash the charts that are lovely for embellishing pouches & fobs (note: these are free designs/charts only, not full tutorials like those above).
Did you know there are a bunch of vintage pattern sets here on Tipnut to download? You can check them out here: Needlework Treats: Free Resources & Vintage Patterns.
