Make a Fabric Bowl
Make a fabric bowl using fabric scraps, glue or starch, and a bowl mold; shape, decorate, and dry to create a useful container.
About this activity
Make a fabric bowl using fabric scraps, glue or starch, and a bowl mold; shape, decorate, and dry to create a useful container.
What you need
Step by step
- 1
Step 1
Cover the outside of your bowl mold with a sheet of plastic wrap so the fabric won’t stick to the bowl.
- 2
Step 2
Spread your fabric scraps and scissors on the table so you can reach everything easily.
- 3
Step 3
Cut the fabric scraps into strips or shapes that are about 1 to 2 inches wide.
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Step 4
Pour some white glue OR liquid starch into the shallow cup so it is easy to dip the fabric.
- 5
Step 5
Dip one fabric strip into the glue or starch and squeeze a little so it is wet but not dripping.
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Step 6
Press the wet fabric strip onto the plastic-covered mold and smooth it down so there are no big bubbles.
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Step 7
Repeat dipping and layering strips, overlapping them as you go until the mold is covered with 3 to 6 stiff layers.
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Step 8
Add any decoration pieces by pressing them onto the top layer while it is still wet.
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Step 9
Let the layered fabric dry undisturbed on the mold for 12 to 24 hours until it feels hard.
- 10
Step 10
Carefully peel the dried fabric bowl off the plastic wrap and take it off the mold.
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Step 11
Trim the rim of the bowl with scissors to make the edge even and neat.
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Step 12
Share a photo of your finished fabric bowl on DIY.org
Fun facts
How do I make a fabric bowl using fabric scraps, glue, and a bowl mold?
Cover a bowl mold with plastic wrap. Mix white craft glue with a little water or use liquid starch. Tear or cut fabric scraps into strips. Dip pieces into the glue mix, squeeze excess, and layer them over the wrapped mold, smoothing as you go. Add layers for strength, shape the rim, then let it dry fully (usually 12–24 hours). Remove from the mold and trim any rough edges before using.
What materials do I need to make a fabric bowl?
You’ll need fabric scraps (cotton works best), a bowl to use as a mold, plastic wrap, white craft glue or Mod Podge (or liquid starch), a small bowl to mix glue and water, scissors, a brush or sponge to apply glue, clips or clothespins, and wax paper or newspaper for drying. Optional: ribbons, buttons, or fabric paint for decorating and a clear sealer for extra durability.
What ages is making a fabric bowl suitable for?
This craft suits children aged about 5 and up with adult help. Ages 3–5 can join with heavy supervision for tearing fabric and applying glue. Kids 6–9 will need guidance with mixing glue and shaping the bowl. Ages 10+ can usually work more independently. Always supervise scissor and glue use, and handle drying and removal from the mold together for safety.
What are some fun variations and tips for fabric bowls?
Try braided strips, patterned fabric layers, or mixing different textures like cotton and felt. Make small bowls for jewelry or larger for keys. Use colorful trims, beads, or fabric paint to personalize. For extra stiffness, add more glue layers and finish with a clear sealant. To speed drying, place bowls in a warm, dry spot. Always test materials on a scrap to avoid bleeding colors.
Watch & Learn
Need help?
What can we use instead of the white glue or liquid starch called for in the instructions?
If you can't find white glue or liquid starch, substitute Mod Podge or a 1:1 mix of white school glue and water to dip and layer the fabric strips.
Why is my fabric bowl sagging or the layers peeling after drying, and how can I fix it?
Ensure the bowl mold is fully covered with plastic wrap, squeeze excess glue from each fabric strip before smoothing, build the recommended 3–6 overlapping stiff layers, and let it dry undisturbed for the full 12–24 hours on the mold to prevent sagging or peeling.
How can I adapt this fabric bowl activity for younger children or older kids?
For younger children, pre-cut the 1–2 inch fabric strips and have an adult handle scissors, peeling, and the rim trimming, while older kids can add more layers, press on decoration pieces themselves, or try different bowl molds for advanced shapes.
What are some ways to personalize or strengthen the finished fabric bowl?
After peeling the dried bowl off the mold and trimming the rim, seal the inside with a coat of Mod Podge or thinned white glue and add fabric paint or glued-on decorations before sharing a photo on DIY.org.