How to sew kitchen towels: A step-by-step guide to creating your own kitchen towels

Sewing your own kitchen towels is a straightforward and satisfying DIY project that can add a personal touch to your kitchen decor while ensuring you get the exact size, color, and fabric you want. With just a few materials and some basic sewing skills, you can create custom kitchen towels that blend seamlessly with your existing design scheme.

Materials You’ll Need:

1. Absorbent fabric (cotton, linen, or cotton-linen blend work well)
2. Thread (matching or contrasting)
3. Scissors or rotary cutter
4. Measuring tape or ruler
5. Pins or sewing clips
6. Sewing machine (or needle for hand-sewing)
7. Iron and ironing board

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Choose Your Fabric: Select a fabric that’s absorbent and durable, ideally in a color or pattern that matches your kitchen.
2. Measure & Cut: Standard kitchen towel sizes range from 16”x26” to 18”x28”, but you can customize the size as needed. Cut your fabric to your desired dimensions, adding about 1 inch to both the length and width for hemming.
3. Hem the Edges: Fold the raw edges over by ½ inch and press with an iron. Then fold over again by another ½ inch to encase the raw edge. Pin or clip the hem in place as you go.
4. Sew the Hems: Stitch close to the inner folded edge all the way around your towel, removing pins as you sew. Backstitch at the beginning and end to secure the stitches.
5. Press & Finish: Once all sides are hemmed, press the towel with an iron for a crisp, professional finish.

If you want to add functional design touches, like a fabric loop for hanging, simply sew a small piece of coordinating fabric or ribbon onto the towel’s corner before hemming that side. As a designer, I always recommend selecting fabric that complements your overall kitchen style and using simple decorative stitches for a subtle custom accent. For larger kitchen layouts or those exploring cohesive decor, integrating homemade towels into your color palette can make the space feel unified—planning your kitchen’s look in advance with a kitchen layout planner can help you visualize how these details tie together.

Tips 1:

Choose pre-washed fabrics to avoid shrinkage after your towels are sewn. Don’t hesitate to experiment with unique fabrics, trims, or even monogramming for extra personality!

FAQ

Q: What fabric is best for homemade kitchen towels?

A: 100% cotton, linen, or a cotton-linen blend are most commonly used due to their high absorbency and durability.

Q: Can I sew kitchen towels by hand?

A: Yes, while a sewing machine is quicker, you can hem kitchen towels by hand with a simple running stitch or backstitch.

Q: How do I prevent fraying on homemade kitchen towels?

A: Double-folded hems or using a serger/zigzag stitch on raw edges can prevent fraying and keep your towels lasting longer.

Q: What size should I cut my kitchen towels?

A: Standard sizes range from 16"x26" to 18"x28", but you can adjust based on your needs and preferences.

Q: How can I make my kitchen towels more decorative?

A: Try adding embroidery, fabric paint, applique, or using decorative stitches for a custom look.