This month, we’re making a dinnerware set, which feels like the perfect reason to also make some fabric sandbags to help prevent warping as our pieces dry.
If you dabble in sewing or have a sewing buddy who does, we’ve created a free printable DIY pattern so you can make a set for your own ceramics practice, too. They’re practical, reusable, and a lovely little studio project.
Fabric suggestions: Choose a tightly woven fabric such as cotton drill, poplin, or canvas. Repurposed materials like old tablecloths, pillowcases, or bedsheets work well too. Avoid loosely woven fabrics like linen, as sand can slowly escape through the weave.
Seam allowance and stitching: This pattern uses a 1cm seam allowance. We recommend a short stitch length to prevent sand from creeping through the seams over time.
What you’ll need
- Woven fabric
- Matching thread
- Sand
- Iron & Ironing Board
- Scissors
- Pencil or fabric marker
Method
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Cut your pattern pieces
Cut out two circles and one rectangle for the handle. On one circle, mark the handle placement using the four drill marks indicated on the pattern. This piece will become the top of the sandbag. -
Make the handle
Fold the handle rectangle in half lengthwise with wrong sides together and press to mark the centre. Open it out, fold each long edge to the centre line, and press with iron. Fold in half again, press, and edgestitch along both sides. Fold each short end under by 1cm and press. -
Attach the handle
Pin the handle ends to the marked positions on the right side of the top circle. Stitch securely in place. -
Assemble the sandbag
Place the two circles right sides together, with the handle sandwiched inside.
Sew around the circle with a 1cm seam allowance, leaving a 5cm opening for turning and filling. Finish raw edges with a zigzag stitch, overlocker, or pinking shears. -
Fill with sand
Turn the bag right side out and press. Using a spoon, fill with sand until the bag feels heavy but still flexible. Avoid overfilling so it can mould gently to your ceramic pieces. -
Close the opening
Stitch the opening closed and trim any loose threads.
Care and use notes
If you’re working with different clay bodies, place plastic, a tea towel or scrap of fabric between the sandbag and your work to prevent colour transfer.
When not in use, store sandbags in a dry space and let them air out or dry in the sun.
Spot clean only with a damp cloth if needed.
