Ethan Clarke
Plastic bins are handy for storage, but they may not always match your room's aesthetic. Covering them with fabric is a simple solution to this problem. You can use a variety of fabrics, such as lightweight cotton, and different techniques, such as sewing or gluing, to attach the fabric to your bins. This project is inexpensive, simple, and can be completed by anyone, regardless of their crafting experience.
Characteristics and Values Table for Covering Plastic Bins with Fabric
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fabric | Lightweight cotton fabric, patterned fabric, solid-coloured fabric |
| Tools | Mod Podge, foam paintbrush, craft knife, safety pin, hot glue |
| Techniques | Cutting, glueing, sewing, stitching |
| Benefits | Decorative, colour-coordinated, washable, removable |
| Considerations | Measurements, handle placement, embellishments, fraying |
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What You'll Learn
Measure the bin and cut the fabric to size
To cover a plastic bin with fabric, you'll first need to measure the bin and cut the fabric to size. This process will differ depending on the type of bin you're using and the look you're going for.
If you're covering a Sterilite bin or a similar plastic storage bin, you'll only need about a square foot of fabric to cover the front of the bin. If you want to cover the front and back, you can do so with one yard of fabric. Cut the fabric to size, making sure to cut out a spot for the handle if necessary.
For a more precise fit, you can create a template that covers the front of the bin. This will ensure that your fabric lines up perfectly and gives a professional-looking result. Measure the height of the bin and the distance around the top edge, using the top perimeter measurement if the bin is slightly larger at the top than at the bottom. Cut your fabric 8 inches longer than the height of the bin and 8 inches longer than the perimeter measurement.
If you're covering a cardboard filing box with fabric, the process is a little different. Start by laying out a large piece of patterned fabric on a flat surface. Place the base of the box in the centre of the fabric and measure and mark one inch from all sides of the box. Cut out the corners of the fabric by cutting towards the one-inch mark from the corners of the box. The remaining fabric should look like a large cross. Cut one inch towards each corner of the fabric. You can then place the top of the filing box in the centre of a piece of fabric that measures 21 inches by 24 inches and glue the inside edge of the box top.
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Use glue to secure the fabric to the bin
Using glue to secure fabric to a plastic bin is a simple and effective way to decorate your storage solutions. It is a quick and easy project that can be achieved with a few basic materials.
Firstly, measure the height of the bin and the distance around the top edge. Most bins are slightly larger at the top, so use the top perimeter measurement. Cut your chosen fabric to size, making it 8 inches longer than the height and perimeter of the bin. This will ensure a snug fit.
Now, apply a thin, even layer of glue to the middle third of the bin, from top to bottom. You can use a foam paintbrush to do this, ensuring there are no dry areas. Press the fabric over the glue, smoothing it out as you go. Try not to stretch the fabric as you work.
Next, lift one side of the fabric and apply glue to that section of the bin. Press the fabric down, smoothing out any creases. Repeat this process on the other side, ensuring the fabric is secure and there are no air bubbles.
Finally, apply a thin layer of glue to the edges of the fabric, securing any loose threads and ensuring a neat finish. Allow the glue to dry completely before using your new decorative bin.
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Sew the fabric to the bin with basic sewing skills
To cover a plastic bin with fabric, you only need basic sewing skills to make a simple fabric cover that you can embellish as you like. First, measure the height of the plastic bin and the distance around the top edge of the bin. Most plastic bins are slightly larger at the top than at the bottom, so use the top perimeter measurement. Cut the fabric 8 inches longer than the height of the bin and the perimeter measurement.
Next, sew a seam with straight stitches along the pinned edge, using a 1/2-inch seam allowance. This will create a "loop" of fabric. Fold under 1/4 inch on both long edges of the fabric loop, then fold under each edge 1 inch and pin. Straight stitch along the 1/4-inch folded edge to enclose the raw edge, creating a casing for the elastic.
Stitch all the way around the edge, leaving a 1-inch opening to insert elastic between the start and endpoint. Cut two pieces of elastic about 4 to 6 inches shorter than the actual perimeter measurement of the bin. Thread the elastic through the casings, gathering the fabric slightly to expose the elastic ends. Overlap the ends by about an inch and sew them together.
Arrange the fabric so that the stitched elastic ends slip inside the casings. Finally, slide the fabric cover over the plastic bin, adjusting the placement of the elasticized edges. You can also use a drawstring cord or ribbon through the casings instead of elastic.
If you want to add some extra flair to your fabric-covered bin, you can embellish the fabric with ribbon, trim, buttons, applique designs, or decorative stitches. Fabric covers also fit plastic milk crate boxes or cardboard storage cartons. If you plan to launder the cover, sew on the embellishments.
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Use Mod Podge to stick the fabric to the bin
Using Mod Podge to stick fabric to a plastic bin is a simple and effective way to cover your bin. Mod Podge is a handy tool to have for a variety of craft projects. It is an all-in-one glue, sealer, and finish that can be used on a variety of surfaces. Here is a step-by-step guide to using Mod Podge for your bin covering project:
Firstly, gather your materials. You will need your plastic bin, fabric of your choice, a foam paintbrush, and Mod Podge. Cut your fabric to size, ensuring it is smooth and free of creases. The fabric should be cut to cover the front of the bin, or if you prefer, the entire bin. Ensure you cut out a spot for the handle if necessary.
Next, prepare your work area. Cover your workspace with newspaper or a drop cloth to protect it from any potential mess. Place your bin upside down on the covered surface and ensure it is stable and secure.
Now, you are ready to apply the Mod Podge. Paint a thin, even layer of Mod Podge onto the middle third of the bin, from top to bottom. Ensure there are no dry areas. Carefully lift and place the fabric over the Mod Podge, aligning it evenly from side to side. Smooth out any creases or bumps, being careful not to stretch the fabric.
Once the fabric is in place, lift the right side and apply more Mod Podge to that area. Securely press the fabric down and paint a little extra along the edges to ensure they are securely adhered. Repeat this process on the left side. If you encounter any frayed threads, simply apply a small amount of Mod Podge to your finger and slide it along the edge, pushing the threads back into place.
Finally, allow the Mod Podge to dry completely. Once it is dry, apply a thin layer of Mod Podge over the fabric fronts for added protection and a smooth finish. Your bin is now ready to use and will have a unique, decorative look!
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Embellish the fabric with ribbon, buttons or designs
Embellishing your fabric with ribbons, buttons, or other designs is a great way to elevate your plastic bins and make them unique. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Ribbons
Ribbons are an easy and effective way to embellish your fabric. You can use different types of ribbons, from small ones tied to zipper pulls to wider ones for embellishment or attaching handles. Decide on your ribbon embellishment and then complement it with your choice of fabric and a zipper. Think of the ribbon as the feature fabric for your project. You can place the ribbon on a single-coloured band of fabric, or you can have it straddle two different colours. Ensure the ribbon is straight across the project and topstitch it in place. You can also use ribbons to create pretty textural trims or transform them into blossoms using embroidery techniques.
Buttons
Buttons can also be used to embellish your fabric-covered bins. Couture expert Susan Khalje showcases an embellished fabric with intersecting pin tucks created using an embroidery technique. You can also create a lapped and embellished seam, or use buttons to adorn pockets, collars, or cuffs.
Fabric Collage
Layering sheer fabrics and using collage techniques can add dimension and sparkle to your fabric-covered bins. This approach is perfect for warm weather, creating lightweight and stylish results.
Other Designs
There are endless possibilities when it comes to embellishing your fabric. You can try your hand at embroidery, adding elegant cuffs or collars to your bins. Antiqued brass nail heads can also add a stunning touch. If you're feeling creative, you can even try pleating ribbons or strips of fabric to create unique trims.
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Frequently asked questions
Covering plastic bins with fabric is a great way to colour-coordinate storage with the room's palette. It also helps to hide the clutter of items inside transparent plastic bins. Fabric covers are easy to remove and wash.
You will need a plastic bin, fabric, Mod Podge, a foam paintbrush, scissors, and embellishments such as ribbon, buttons, or trim.
Measure the height of the bin and the distance around the top edge. Cut the fabric 8 inches longer than the height and perimeter of the bin.
Cut the fabric to size, leaving enough to cover the front, back, and sides of the bin. Paint a thin layer of Mod Podge on the bin and press the fabric over it, smoothing out any creases. Repeat on the other side and trim any excess fabric.
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