DIY Padded Eyeglass Case: The Fastest & Most Protective Method

Updated at: 27/05/2025

Tired of flimsy eyeglass cases that offer little protection for your precious spectacles? Do you constantly worry about scratches, dents, or even worse – breakage? Then you're in the right place! This guide unveils the fastest and most effective method for creating a custom, padded eyeglass case using readily available materials. Forget expensive, mass-produced cases that lack personality and adequate safeguarding; you'll be surprised at how quickly and easily you can build superior protection for your eyewear.

We'll bypass complicated sewing and intricate designs, focusing instead on a straightforward technique that maximizes impact absorption while minimizing your time commitment. This DIY project is perfect for beginners and seasoned crafters alike, offering a satisfying blend of practicality and personalization. Ready to get started on creating the ultimate protective haven for your glasses? Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Fabric (two pieces 7.5 inches square)
  • Pellon Flexi Foam (7 inches high, 7.5 inches wide)
  • Sewing Machine
  • Fabric Clips
  • Iron
  • Ruler
  • Seam Ripper (optional)
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use sharp scissors or a rotary cutter with caution to avoid injury. Adult supervision is recommended, especially when children are involved.
  • Ensure the fabric you choose is sturdy enough to protect your glasses from impacts and scratches. Avoid thin, flimsy materials.
  • Before sewing, test your stitching on a scrap piece of fabric to ensure the chosen stitch and thread strength are adequate for the chosen material.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Outer Fabric

    • Fuse Pellon Flexi Foam to Outer Fabric
    Fuse Pellon Flexi Foam to Outer Fabric
    Prepare Outer Fabric

  2. Assemble and Sew Main Seam

    • Place fabrics right sides together, aligning edges and patterns
    • Sew around the perimeter with a 1/4 inch seam allowance
    • Press the seam allowance towards the lining
    Press the seam allowance towards the liningPress the seam allowance towards the liningPress the seam allowance towards the lining
    Assemble and Sew Main Seam

  3. Prepare for Turning

    • Fold the sewn piece in half, matching seams and edges. Clip to secure
    • Sew along the remaining three sides with a 1/4 inch seam allowance, leaving one edge open for turning
    • Clip corners to facilitate turning
    Clip corners to facilitate turningClip corners to facilitate turningClip corners to facilitate turning
    Prepare for Turning

  4. Turn and Shape

    • Turn right side out using a ruler or point turner to help with corners
    Turn right side out using a ruler or point turner to help with corners
    Turn and Shape

  5. Finish Lining

    • Press the raw edge of the lining fabric 3/8 to 1/2 inch inwards
    • Top stitch along the lining edge
    Top stitch along the lining edgeTop stitch along the lining edge
    Finish Lining

  6. Insert and Secure Lining

    • Push the lining into the case, using a ruler to assist if needed
    • Top stitch around the top edge to secure
    Top stitch around the top edge to secureTop stitch around the top edge to secure
    Insert and Secure Lining

Read more: Sew a Lined Expandable Storage Bag: Easy Tutorial

Tips

  • Use Pellon Flexi Foam for superior protection compared to batting.
  • Pay attention to the directionality of your fabric.
  • Don't press directly onto the foam, use a pressing cloth or flip the fabric.
  • Use fabric clips to prevent fabric from shifting during sewing.
  • Go slowly when sewing over thicker seams to prevent needle breakage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using insufficient padding

Reason: Not enough padding material can leave your glasses vulnerable to scratches and impacts.
Solution: Add more padding material, such as extra layers of felt or foam, to ensure adequate protection.

2. Poorly securing the closure

Reason: A weak or improperly attached closure can allow glasses to fall out and get damaged.
Solution: Use strong adhesive and/or reinforce the closure mechanism with additional stitching or a button/snap for a more secure fit.

FAQs

What materials do I need to make this eyeglass case?
You'll primarily need a piece of stiff fabric (like cardboard or heavy felt), a softer padding material (like foam or fleece), and a piece of attractive fabric for the exterior. Scissors, glue, and a ruler are also essential.
Can I use this method for sunglasses too?
Absolutely! This method works perfectly for sunglasses, just ensure you adjust the size of your fabric pieces to accommodate their larger dimensions.
How durable is this DIY case compared to store-bought ones?
With the right materials, this DIY case can be surprisingly durable. Using a sturdy base and sufficient padding will offer comparable, if not superior, protection to many commercially available cases, especially the inexpensive ones.