If you are looking to save a little money and use a product that is a little better for the environment, these DIY reusable dryer sheets are a great idea. There is a sewn and no-sew option available below.
These are really quick and easy to make and if you choose the sewn version, this is a great beginner sewing project. Flannel is generally inexpensive at the fabric store, but be sure to check the remnants bins. If your area is anything like mine, flannel goes on sale often for 25-30% off.
You can learn how to make reusable dryer cloths here.
DIY Reusable Dryer Sheets
This is a beginner-level sewing project. A no-sew option is also available.
Approximate time to complete: 30-45 minutes
Approximate cost to make: $0.84 per cloth (As costs vary from store to store, this was based on my local fabric price of $5.99)
Makes 6
Supplies needed:
- Sewing Machine
- ½ yard flannel fabric
- Matching thread
- Fabric marking pen
- Sewing pins or clips
- Standard sewing scissors
- Turning tool or chopstick
- Cutting mat and ruler, measuring tape or ruler
- Iron
- Pinking Shears for the no-sew option
Instructions for Easy Sew:
Step 1:
Measure (12) 5 ½” x 5 ½” pieces of your flannel fabric
Steps 2-4:
Pin 2 pieces with printed sides facing each other. Using a 3/8” seam allowance, sew around all four sides, leaving a 3” gap for turning. Clip your corners.
Steps 5-6:
Using your turning tool, turn squares right side out and push out the corners. Press with a warm iron.
Steps 7-8:
Using a ¼” seam allowance, topstitch around the entire dryer sheet. Sew a line down the middle of the dryer sheet to keep it from twisting out of shape when you use it.
Step 9:
Fold and place in an airtight container of homemade fabric softener mixture (equal parts fabric softener and water)
To use, slightly twist once to remove excess moisture and place in the dryer.
No-sew instructions:
If you are not a seamstress, you can still make dryer sheets. Cut 5 ½” x 5 ½” pieces of flannel fabric and trim the edges with pinking shears. This will keep the raw edges from fraying when you wash and dry them. Use each square individually just as you would the stitched version.
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