Sewing

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Giveaway: Elna Sew Fun sewing machine

by

This giveaway has closed.  The winner is commenter 168, Jessica, who said:

I liked Elena on Facebook! What and awesome giveaway!!!

National Craft Month may be nearly over, but we’ve got an awesome prize lined up for this last week.

An Elna Sew Fun sewing machine!!

This little machine is great for someone who is wanting to learn how to sew.   It sticks with the basics so a beginner won’t  be overwhelmed by too many choices and too many knobs.  At the same time, it’s got everything you need for most sewing techniques.  The small size also makes it perfect for carrying with you to classes or sewing play dates with friends.

Get the full details on the Elna Sew Fun.

Here’s how to get yourself entered:

1.  Visit the Elna Facebook page and “like” it.

2.  Come back here and leave a comment on this giveaway post telling me that you’ve liked Elna’s facebook page.

Now for the rules:

The giveaway is US residents aged 18+ only.  Only one entry per person, please.  Deadline for this giveaway is midnight CST on March 31, 2011.  A winner will be drawn at random from all valid entries on Friday, April 1, 2011.

Good luck!!!

Next Pattern:

Comments

  1. I have commented on the Elna page. This would be perfect for me! I’ve been thinking about picking up sewing but didn’t know if I wanted to invest in a machine right now or not… Fingers crossed.

  4. Wow! This would be a nice prize to win. I have “liked” the Elna FB Page and left the link on their page. Thanks to CraftGossip – I LOVE THIS SITE!

  7. Elna was my first sewing machine! I loved it! It was a model from the 50’s and eventually I needed to update. I’d love to have a new one.

  8. I “liked” Elna facebook page and have left the comment on their fb page as requested! Sounds like the perfect machine for me to learn to sew with!!

    phenis2031 at yahoo dot com

  13. I “liked” Elna Facebook page and left comment. I would so much love to win this machine. I am teaching my granddaugters how to sew and it would be a perfect machine for them. I am so glad to be connected to this website.

  15. Oh, Id love to win this. Been wanting to learn to sew but haven’t had the money to buy a machine. Thanks, I love craft gossip!

  16. I commented on the Elna page. Now wishingful thinking. Hope to win. I really don’t like my current machine. Wish me luck! Love your page!

  19. I want to win the Elna Sew Fun Sewing Machine from Craft Gossip! It’s perfect for me and my girls for the types of crafting/sewing/jewelry projects we enjoy together! I also ‘liked’ your Elna Sewing. Machine Facebook page! What fun!

  22. I like Elna’s page and left the comment as directed. I’d love to win this; I need a new sewing machine! Thanks for the chance!

  31. I made a comment on the Elna Sew Fun fb page.
    I’ve been researching on a good sewing machine to start with, and this looks like it could be the one!

  33. I have left a comment on Elna facebook wall. I want to start sewing. I’m imagining all sorts of things I would love to sew. My mom sewed when I was little and made so many wonderful accessories for the home. Good memories. I want to do that for my own home.

  44. I liked and commented! It would be great to have my own sewing machine so I don’t have to keep borrowing my mother-in-law’s!

  47. I commented at Elna’s page! Would love, love, love to win! I come from a long line of dress makers & seamstresses, but do not know how to sew. 🙁 I have been looking for the perfect sewing machine to learn on & this looks like it! Keeping my finger crossed!

  53. I “liked” the Elna facebook page and commented for this giveaway. Hope I win! Love to be crafty with my sewing machine…and an extra would mean I won’t have to share with my daughters. They can have their own!

  55. I just entered on the Elna facebook page. I am so excited and would love to win as I am a beginner with lots of ideas!

  56. I’ve commented on the Facebook page! This would be a great new toy to play with! 🙂

  58. I just found out today that my elna from 1979 is broken and too old to fix. I’d love this machine to replace it! And I posted on facebook’

  68. I liked the Elna page on Facebook! I would love to win this sewing machine since I’m a fashion design major!!

  73. “Like” Elna on Facebook! I would love a new machine to be able to take with me when I go to Wisconsin.

  87. I “liked” the Elna page,and I thanked them for the chance to win! This wud be so perfect–i have multiple different-abilities(lol) and it would be so great and EZ! 2 tote to folks’ nursing facility for repairs,alterations,crafts for their room…oh,my can I think of Fun!

  88. Would love to win this machine. Have a daughter who wants to learn to sew just like all the other women in our family

  90. I liked Elna on Facebook! I want to learn how to make a quilt, and this machine looks like a perfect place for me to start!

  97. This would be a perfect wedding gift for my friend! She really wants to learn to sew…

    I liked them on FB and commented on their page!

  99. I “like” ELNA FACEBOOK PAGE! Ive been interested in sewing for such a long time, I just cant afford a machine! Would love this amazing machine! 🙂 ***** five stars!

  102. I liked on ELNA facebook page,I would love to win this for my granddaughter,she is learning to sew and we could sew along side each other.Thanks for a great giveaway!!

  103. I commented on your Facebook page. My granddaughter is so anxious to have her very own sewing machine. This would be perfect for her. Thank you for the opportunity.

    Mary K

  104. I like (d) Elna! With 2 girls learning to sew in my house I would use a new machine so that I can sew more!

  105. I’ve “liked” Elna on FB! Would be so nice to have a beginner sewing machine so that I can teach my neices how to sew. So cute that they have such an interest in watching me sew, just love it. Keeping my fingers crossed!

  106. I liked Elna facebook page! This would be purfect fo me. If I win then my sister will be able to get her sewing machine back. I have had it for almost a year. lol

  109. I liked Elna’s facebook page when I visited. Thanks for this giveway. Would be great to have in the house.

  110. I liked Elna on facebook and left a comment. Love to win this to give to my granddaughter to teach her to sew.

  117. “Liked” Elna on Facebook–hoping to win the machine for my little girl who desperately wants to sew!

  118. you know I like it! hope i win! I could use a new machine with all of the sewing ideas i have floating around in my head.

  121. I have liked Elna on facebook, would love to
    win this machine mine is wearing out. Love your machines

  123. I liked the page and I love to sew. This machine would be a great upgrade from the one I got when I was 16. 🙂

  125. Liked on FB. My machine is on it’s last leg! This would be great, since a new machine is hard to fit into our tight budget!

  127. I don’t “do” facebook, but I would love to win this so I could give it to my best friend who desperately wants to learn to sew!

  133. I “liked” the Elna, and I would love to own it! My four granddaughters would be in heaven!!

  134. I went to to the elna facebook site and liked it. You have a good site and thanks for the chance to win a sewing machine.

  137. Cookie Tstr
    Elna is one of the best machines out there…have used most brands, would love to have a new Elna
    2 seconds ago · Like ·

    LOVE the Elna!!! I’ve been sewing most of my life from jackets for the dogs, blankets for the horse, clothes for my kids. Oh, and I quilt as well! I’ve wanted a Elna for years, could never afford one … About the only thing a Elna won’t do is make your coffee in the morning.
    Of course, if I win, no one will get me away from the sewing machine for months to come and I’ll probably need new glasses from squinting because of the lack of sleep….but boy would it be fun!!!

  138. love to have i do alot of sewing my machine is falling apart i always have to stop to fix it love to have thanks

  139. I would love this for my grand daughter… she loves to sew ( and it would keep her off my machine!). I have “liked” Elna on Facebook so please enter me in the giveaway!

  143. First, thank you for introducing me to a new site! the Elna page will be visited by me too now. Second, thanks for a chance to win this fabulous machine, it will be a gift for my 12yr. old niece who is just learning to sew!

  145. Oh my to have the oppertunity to win a new sewing machine, How Grand! It would go nicely in my new craft room. Thank you. I do LOVE craft gossip.

  148. I have “liked” the FB page. Would love to have this. Have a friend who wants to learn to sew and this would be great for her to learn on! Great Giveaway!

  149. ahhh, Elna, How I “LIKE” you, let me count the ways…the ways i could whip up projects that sit dormant waiting for me!!

    Please make my humble table top your home! ;]

  151. You are “liked”. Love this contest! Was just about to buy a sewing machine…..

  152. Was just on your facebook page! I have been sewing since highschool but haven’t in years. It would be great to get back into it with this machine.

  155. I liked Elna on their facebook page, and I would love to win this machine for my daughter and grandaughter. My daughter is attempting handmade things, but would like to machine sew, my grandaughter is 11, and expressing interest and this would be perfect!

  158. I liked on Elena on there FB page. I would love to win this for my grand daughter. She is 12 and wants to learn to sew.

  159. I would love to win this machine so I can use it this summer in a “sewing camp” for kids at my church.

  161. I liked elena on FB, Just wanted to say I love Craft Gossip, I am always bookmarking websites for projects to do. So many to do so little time. Almost every day a new project to try. Thank you for all you do.

  164. Let’s try again. I did go to facebook and left a remark. As I said, my first good machine was an Elna and I still have it.

  165. I would love to win this nifty Elna sewing machine. I checked out the brochure and all of the information about this machine and it is a simple great machine. My sewing machine is possessed!! It won’t hold the tension – it has a mind of it’s own and is a nervous wreck and has it’s own tension. I’ve had it in the shop enough that it has separate anxiety!! What I liked about the Elna machine was the simplicity and yet it does what I need in a machine. Nothing too fancy just the wonderful finish of a blanket stitch and several other stitches that I like. I would love to win this great little machine.

  169. I dont think my comment “took” yesterday-sometimes I hate my phone&it’s all I have2work with 🙁 BUT I DID LIKE ELNA&COMMENTED ON THEIR FB PAGE! 😀 actually I love Elna prods,and tho I already sew, I also have developed multiple spine & “arthur” (itis) conditions. This little beauty could go with me to Momma&Daddy’s nursing facility for mending,altering,crafting…omg I cud actually *carry* something to help them&make them feel more “homey”! I used to take my machine home & fix/alter/make for them….i can’t bear that I can’t take care of them…so I am PRAYING (literally) I can do this for them. Silly to pray for a “sew’chine” as little me called it? Nope? Sickly me bn waiting 2yrs for SS. Can’t buy TP. Web free w phone & I thank Him… And ThankYou CraftGossip&Elna for the chance!

  170. I clicked ‘like’ for Elna’s facebook page. The machine looks great for going to class…just the right size. Craftgossip.com always has the greatest giveaways posted.

  172. I “liked” Elna’s FB page 🙂 It would be nice to have a sewing machine that would be easier to take to sewing get togethers

  173. I liked the Elna FB page. This machine would be perfect for me. I don’t have a sewing machine now and really need one for some projects (can’t afford to buy one). Thank you for the chance.

  175. I “liked” the Elna Fun Sew facebook page 🙂
    What a great giveaway! Thanks 🙂

  176. Liked the Elna facebook page! I would love to win so I can give my machine to my daughter. She is studying fashion design and doesn’t have a machine of her own yet.

  179. I left a comment on the Elna Facebook page. I am looking for a basic machine on which to teach my granddaughter to sew. She’s only 5 but is loving to do crafts. Sewing doll clothes is how I started sewing when I was 7, so I really think she’ll be ready for a simple machine soon.
    Elna makes a quality machine and that means a lot when you are just beginning. It’s easy to become frustrated with something that doesn’t work very well!

  181. I liked the Elna page on FB. I could have stayed there longer. Lots of interesting things there.

  189. I liked their page! It would be so much fun to win this machine! Perfect for teaching my kids how to sew! Thanks.

  190. I enjoyed the photos of the various machines you have. I need to upgrade my machine(more like junk my 40 year old machine) and the I like the looks of the ones you have for sale. I friend of mine who sews a lot just bought the one you are giving away and says she really likes it. Does all the basic things she needs to do with it. That is why I looked your site up in the first place.

  194. I liked the Elna page on facebook and left a comment. I would love to win this machine. I am struggling to make ends meet and am hoping some sewing of recycled things might help me be able to sell some stuff and make a little money.

  196. I like Elna’s FB page. This is great for me. I have no clue how to sew but I would absolutely love to learn! Thanks for a great giveaway!

  198. I would love to win this for myself so I could sew a little. I use to sew some but I don’t have a machine anymore.

  204. I love this machine it reminds me of my first Singer…which has sadly rusted due to many military moves and storage…..

  205. I would LOVE to win this. My mom was given a ELna 30 years ago…. it worked well for so many of our sewing projects through the years and only was serviced twice… amazing!!! I would love to teach my girls to sew on this:)

  207. This machine sounds like just the right one for me to reconnect with sewing as a hobby. Thanks for the opportunity to win this machine for me and my daughter to craft together.

    I left a comment on the Elna facebook page.

    Thanks for the contest!

  208. I like Elna’s FB page. I recently started a beginning sewing class and would love to have a sewing machine at home so that I could practice outside of class.

    Thanks a bunch!

  209. I’ve only just started sewing at 45 years old and I’m so excited to learn. I’ve been hoarding fabric for a couple of months now.
    So I’ve likey’d Elna!

  215. I’ve been to their page and I LOVE IT, however there is no LOVE IT button so alas…I did check the like button.

    This is such a wonderful contest! Thank you for giving us all a chance to win some truly awesome prizes!!

  218. I liked the Facebook page, and will look into things further (when it’s not so late here!) I have oodles of ideas of things i want to sew, the machine is what I’m lacking. thanks for the opportunity!

  222. I went and liked Elna’s facebook page. It would be so awesome to win this sewing machine!

  223. I’ve been to elna’s facebook page and gave them my “like”.
    Since I’m a granny with failing eyesight I know that if I won this cute machine I would be giving it to my daughter as she has 4 children, lots of little garments to repair and no sewing machine to do it with. The Sew Fun would be perfect for her as she is a novice when it comes to sewing and a simple, uncomplicated machine would be ideal.

  225. I liked Elna’s facebook page. It would be great to win this for my daughter, it would be her first sewing machine of her own.

  228. I “liked” the Elna Sewing Machine page. It would be fabulous to win this so I’ll finally have a sewing machine of my own to make all the cool projects I find on Craft Gossip. Now I borrow my coworker’s but I’m moving away to work on a farm and won’t have one… Wish me luck!

  229. I became a Facebook fan! (I “liked” Elna’s page.)

    Thanks so much for the giveaway!

    fashuneesta[at]aol[dot]com

  242. I have now “liked” the Elna Facebook page. The Elna sewing machine brings back wonderful memories of all the clothes my mom used to make for us. She still has her machine, but doesn’t use it as much.

    Thanks for the chance to win this awesome machine!

    Elise

  245. “Like” -> Elna’s page!

    I’d love to win this machine since I currently am without a machine and have about a bajillion projects floating around in my head that I’d love to make.

    <3 <3 <3

  248. Liked the page! Would love to have my own machine to play around with, especially when I move out on my own in another few months.

  253. I’ve liked Elna’s facebook page and left a comment there…..Nice giveaway! Good luck everybody!

  256. I liked Elna’s FB page! I want to learn to sew sooooo badly and this looks like the perfect way to do it! 🙂

  257. I like (no LOVE) Elna’s facebook page. I would absolutely LOVE to win this most awesome sewing machine!

  260. I would love the opportunity to win the lovely sewing machine. I liked there site on FB! What a great way for me to learn more about sewing!

  261. Hi, wow….this is a wonderful little sewing machine. This would be a great start for me to re-learn on. My mom said she would even help me.I love sewing but don’t have the money for one right now.Thanks for the chance to win this. I LIKED your page. Thanks again. Peace <3

  265. I tried to “like” Elna’s page, only to discover I already did!!! I would love to have this machine for my daughters!

  266. I love the Elna site. I have had an Elna for the past 22 years and it still runs like new. I would love to win one to teach my daughter how to sew on.

  268. I liked & commented on Elna’s facebook page, thanks for another chance at a great prize, love your website 🙂

  269. I would so love this, my cheap $50 machine gets the job done, but with lots of snags and bobbin adjusting!!

  272. I taught myself to sew a few years ago and it is amazing! I would love to win an Elna sewing machine – it would make my life so much simpler 🙂
    I went and liked the “elna sewing machines” fb page!

  275. I liked their page. I would love to give this machine to my daughter who likes me to make her own tote bags. Haha. She could make her own with her own machine. 🙂

  276. I’d love to win the Elna, i heard great things about it! I love your site! I also left a comment on elnas facebook page 🙂 Pick me please 🙂

  282. I “liked” the FB page. I could really use this machine. I am very short and never find pants that do not need altering. I figured I could save some money on tailoring by trying it myself 🙂

  284. I left this comment on Elna Sewing Machine’s Facebook page…I would love to win this sewing machine. ? I learned to sew when I was 12 years old. I am a petite person and have always had to hem my clothes. I do alterations for a living now and I am also teaching my daughters and granddaughters to sew. It would come in sooooo handy !!! Bless you ?

  285. I “liked” the Elna Facebook page & left a comment just in case. I would love to take this little machine home. I’m just learning to sew but do not have my own machine.

  287. I have “liked” the Elna facebook page! I would love to win a new sewing machine! I am an experienced sewer, but have been using my first cheapo one that I have had for years!

  290. Would be tickled pink to win this machine; the one I am *using* was given to me when I went away to college in 1986. It’s on it’s last leg 😉
    thanks for the opportunity!
    Kim T.

  294. Oh, what a great opportunity to win a sewing machine that both my girls could learn on! How exciting! 😀 I have “liked” on Elna FB page, and wishing everyone BEST WISHES!

  295. Oh, you bet I entered and went over and liked the page (as 504 Main). I would love a new sewing machine…and oh my they have some lovely ones!

  309. I liked Elna Sewing Machines on Facebook.. I would love to win this… I recently developed a great love for sewing but not sure what to buy and whats right for me.. I have not won any giveaways before.. but hope I win this.. fingers crossed..

    Thanks for the giveaway !!

  310. I “liked” the Elna Facebook page. I would love to win this machine. It would be my grand-daughters first machine and a great one to learn how to sew on. Thanks for the opportunity!

  313. I’ve liked the Elna FB Page! I would truely appreciate having this machine for my daughter who constantly begs for me to teach her how to sew, you know nowadays money is scarce!

  318. I’ve been on the Elna page & “liked” it! Looks like a great machine! I would love to win a new one and teach my daughter to sew!

  319. I liked it on facebook. Would love to win this, my current machine is really old and doesn’t work well.

  321. I liked Elna on FB – this would be an awesome machine for my daughter who is learning how to sew. Thanks for the great giveaway!

  323. i liked the Elna facebook page…. I am really in need of a new sewing machine. My daughter and I have just started sewing with liberty Jane and we are loving it but my sewing machine is very bossy it only does what it wants to do… So this contest is just amazing… Winning this would be GREAT!!!! :~)

  325. I’ve “liked” Elna’s webpage!….Would LOVE to win a new one so I could “retire this antique!” Sewing is my stress relief! Thanks for the opportunity!

  327. I liked the FB page (how did I miss that before!) and would LOVE to win this as I have two daughters who have recently discovered the joy of sewing!

    • Carol, I haven’t posted the winner yet. I was planning on doing it yesterday, but the day somehow got away from me. It’s absolutely on the calendar for today. –Anne

Have you read?

15 Charity Sewing Projects That Let You Sew Something Useful For A Good Cause

Let’s be honest, most of us have fabric sitting in the cupboard that was bought with very good intentions.

Some of it was going to become a quilt. Some of it was definitely going to become a bag. Some of it was purchased because it was pretty, on sale, and apparently I have no self-control around cute cotton prints.

But sometimes those fabrics are just waiting for the right project.

Charity sewing is one of those lovely corners of the craft world where useful meets meaningful. You do not need to sew an heirloom quilt or spend weeks on one complicated project. Many of the most needed items are simple, repeatable projects: pillowcases, small bags, blankets, drawstring totes, reusable pads, comfort pillows, and practical accessories.

The key is to always check the charity’s current guidelines before you sew. Fabric type, size, closures, washing requirements, and shipping instructions can vary, and nothing breaks a maker’s heart faster than sewing a beautiful pile of items that cannot be accepted.

Here are some thoughtful charity sewing projects and donation ideas to inspire your next stash-busting session.

Sew Powerful Purse Project

The Sew Powerful Purse Project is one of those projects that really shows how a small handmade item can carry a much bigger purpose. Volunteers sew crossbody purses that are used as part of a program supporting girls in Zambia with menstrual hygiene management supplies.

This is a lovely project for confident beginners or intermediate sewists who enjoy making bags. The finished purses are colourful, practical, and personal, especially when makers include an encouragement card inside. If you have bright cottons, cheerful prints, or sturdy fabric sitting in your stash, this is a beautiful way to use them.

Pillowcases For Children In Hospital

A handmade pillowcase is a wonderfully simple charity sewing project because it is quick, useful, and easy to batch sew. The Ryan’s Case for Smiles pillowcase instructions are designed for cheerful pillowcases that can bring colour and comfort to children facing serious illness.

This is a great project for sewing groups because the cutting and sewing can be done production-line style. Novelty prints, bright colours, and kid-friendly designs are perfect here. It is also a good first charity sewing project for beginners who want to help but do not want anything too fiddly.

Handmade Blankets For Project Linus

If quilting is more your thing, Project Linus blanket patterns are a wonderful place to start. They accept handmade blankets for children who are seriously ill, traumatised, or otherwise in need, and they offer pattern ideas for quilts, fleece blankets, and afghans.

A simple patchwork quilt, no-sew fleece blanket, or soft flannel blanket can all be useful, depending on your local chapter’s current needs. This is a great project for using larger cuts of fabric, orphan blocks, soft flannel, or those quilt tops you started with grand plans and then abandoned. We have all been there.

Pillowcase Dresses

The Little Dresses for Africa printable pattern directions show how a pillowcase or simple fabric yardage can be turned into a dress. It is a classic charity sewing idea because the design is simple, practical, and easy to sew in batches.

Use lightweight cottons, cheerful prints, and sturdy seams. This is a lovely project for sewing bees because one person can cut, another can press, and another can sew. Add pockets if the guidelines allow, because pockets are always exciting, no matter where in the world you live.

Dresses For Girls

If you prefer sewing from a more structured pattern, the Dress A Girl Around the World patterns and tutorials include several dress styles. These projects are a little more involved than a basic pillowcase dress, but they are still very achievable for most confident beginners.

This is a great option if you enjoy garment sewing but want a project that is not overly fitted or fussy. Choose durable fabrics that wash well, and keep decorations practical. Pretty is lovely, but sturdy is what makes the dress wearable.

Reusable Menstrual Health Kits

The Days for Girls volunteer program supports volunteers who sew menstrual health kits using their approved patterns and guidance. This is an important reminder that charity sewing is not just about making something cute. Sometimes the most powerful sewing projects are the practical ones that help someone stay in school, work, and community life.

Because these kits have very specific requirements, this is one project where you absolutely need to work through an official team or chapter. It is not a “wing it from Pinterest” kind of project. Fabric type, absorbency, construction, and cleanliness all matter.

Tote Bags For Foster Care

A simple tote bag can make a big difference for children entering foster care, especially when belongings need to be moved quickly. Fabric bags feel more personal and dignified than plastic bags, and they can be filled with toiletries, pyjamas, books, or comfort items depending on the organisation’s needs.

Use strong cotton, canvas, denim, or upholstery-weight scraps for these bags. Reinforced handles are worth the extra few minutes at the machine. If you are sewing for a local foster care organisation, ask whether they prefer certain sizes before you start.

Drawstring Bags For Hygiene Kits

Drawstring bags are one of the most useful things you can sew for donation. They can hold toiletries, period products, school supplies, small toys, or emergency care items. They are also brilliant for using fat quarters and larger fabric scraps.

Keep the design simple, washable, and sturdy. French seams or overlocked edges help the bags last longer. This is a great beginner project because it uses straight seams and very little fabric.

Zipper Pouches For Toiletries

Small zipper pouches are handy for charities that assemble care kits, hospital packs, shelter kits, or emergency bags. They can be used for toiletries, period supplies, medications, stationery, or small personal items.

If zippers make you nervous, this is actually a good project to practise on because the pieces are small and forgiving. Choose washable cottons, add interfacing for structure, and keep the size practical rather than tiny. A pouch that fits a toothbrush, soap, and a few personal items is far more useful than one that only fits a lip balm and good intentions.

Adult Dignity Bibs

Adult dignity bibs are thoughtful sewing projects for aged care, disability support, hospitals, and home carers. Unlike baby-style bibs, dignity bibs are designed to look more like clothing protectors, scarves, or aprons so the wearer feels respected.

You can find a simple Special Needs Bib Pattern on CraftBits. Use absorbent backing, soft fabric, and closures that are easy for carers to manage. This is one of those practical projects that may not look glamorous on Pinterest, but it is genuinely useful.

Walker And Wheelchair Bags

Walker bags, wheelchair bags, and mobility caddies are incredibly practical items to sew for older adults or people using mobility aids. They can hold glasses, tissues, phones, books, medication, water bottles, or small personal items.

The key here is function. Use strong fabric, secure straps, and pockets that are easy to reach. Before sewing in bulk, check with a local aged care home, hospital auxiliary, community centre, or disability support group to see what sizes and attachment styles are most helpful.

Breast Cancer Comfort Pillows

Small comfort pillows can be useful after breast surgery, especially under the arm or between the body and seatbelt. These are often made by sewing groups for hospitals or cancer support organisations.

Soft cotton fabric, gentle stuffing, and smooth seams are important. Avoid scratchy trims, buttons, or anything that could irritate sensitive skin. These are quick to sew, but they carry a lot of kindness.

Chemo Caps And Soft Headwear

Soft hats, scarves, and head coverings can be donated to cancer centres and support groups, but fabric choice matters. Soft knits, bamboo blends, stretch cotton, and smooth seams are usually preferred because sensitive scalps need comfort, not scratchy seams.

Keep the colours varied. Some people love bright and bold, while others prefer quiet neutrals. This is also a thoughtful way to use soft knit fabric remnants from T-shirt sewing projects.

Handmade Dolls And Soft Toys

Handmade dolls and soft toys can be donated to some children’s charities, emergency responders, shelters, and crisis support groups. They can become comfort items during difficult transitions.

Before sewing, check safety rules carefully. Avoid loose buttons, hard embellishments, long ribbons, or anything that could be a choking risk. Simple embroidered faces are often safer than plastic eyes, especially for younger children.

Pet Shelter Blankets

If you have fleece, flannel, old towels, denim, or sturdy cotton scraps, pet shelter blankets are a practical way to sew for animals. Many shelters use soft mats, crate liners, and small blankets for cats and dogs waiting for homes.

Check your local rescue group before sewing, because some shelters have strict washing and size requirements. Keep the blankets simple and durable. Fancy binding is lovely, but the dogs will not care, and the washing machine definitely will.

Fidget Quilts And Sensory Mats

Fidget quilts and sensory mats can be helpful for some people living with dementia, autism, anxiety, or sensory processing needs. These projects use different textures, safe closures, ribbons, zippers, soft fabrics, and tactile details.

This is a good project for experienced sewists because safety matters. Everything must be firmly attached, washable where needed, and suitable for the organisation receiving it. If you have a basket of odd trims, textured fabric, denim pockets, ribbons, and buttons, this project can put them to meaningful use.

Fabric Baskets For Care Packs

Fabric baskets are useful for shelters, hospitals, fundraising stalls, raffles, care packs, and community gift drives. They can hold toiletries, baby supplies, craft kits, snacks, or personal care items.

The Trendy Fabric Basket on CraftBits is a good example of a practical fabric container that looks lovely but still has a purpose. Use interfacing or batting to give the basket shape, and choose fabrics that suit the group you are donating to.

Tips Before You Start Sewing For Charity

Before you cut into your favourite fabric, contact the charity or local organisation first. Ask what they currently need, what sizes they accept, whether items must be pre-washed, and whether there are fabric restrictions.

Stick to washable fabrics unless the organisation says otherwise. Avoid strong scents, pet hair, glitter, fragile embellishments, and anything difficult to clean. I know glitter fabric looks fun, but no hospital laundry department has ever asked for extra sparkle in their day.

It also helps to sew in small batches. Make one sample first, check that it meets the requirements, then sew more. That way you are not left with twelve beautiful but unusable items and a slightly cranky relationship with your sewing machine.

Supplies Worth Keeping On Hand For Charity Sewing

Charity sewing is much easier when you keep a small donation project box ready to go. Cotton fabric, flannel, fleece, canvas, interfacing, zippers, elastic, bias tape, thread, drawstring cord, and batting scraps are all useful supplies.

Fat quarters are perfect for smaller projects like pouches, drawstring bags, pillowcase cuffs, fabric baskets, and little comfort items. Larger fabric pieces can become pillowcases, dresses, blankets, tote bags, and mobility bags.

 

If you want more small sewing projects that could be adapted for donations, try these next:

Scrap Fabric Bookmarks are lovely for literacy packs, school drives, library fundraisers, or little handmade extras inside care packages.

The Potholder Sewing Pattern is a practical kitchen project that could work for shelter welcome packs, community raffles, church stalls, or handmade gift drives.

The Trendy Fabric Basket is handy for organising care package items, baby supplies, toiletries, or small handmade gifts.

This roundup of Free Sewing Patterns for Tote Bags is a good next stop if you want more bag ideas that could be adapted for community projects.