Some days you just want a quick sewing project that is fun, satisfying and uses up those leftover scraps you keep saving. That was exactly me last week, staring at a pile of cork, vinyl and faux leather and thinking this would make such a sweet handmade Valentine’s gift. That is how this scrap-busting Photo Keychain came to life. It is a fast beginner-friendly project, perfect for non-fraying fabrics, and you can sew it in less time than it takes to drink a cup of tea.
Download Your Free Template
One of the reasons I love this little project is how simple yet thoughtful it is.
It is designed specifically for non-fraying fabrics such as cork, vinyl, or faux leather, so there are no turning edges. Everything is sewn right side up, and it only takes a few seams to put the whole project together.
There is an eyelet at the top, so you can attach a key ring and clip it directly to your keys to use as a keychain. The snap closure with a connector keeps everything neatly closed. When you open it, you will find two heart-shaped windows with clear vinyl behind each to protect your photos from wear and tear, keeping them safe over time. I also love using the small heart cutout from the window to make an extra charm-style attachment, similar to the charms you would add to a bracelet, so nothing goes to waste.
To make this project even easier, I’ve created a free printable template for you. You can download it and start sewing right away, and it comes in two sizes, small and medium, so you can choose the perfect size for your keepsake.
Download the FREE Photo Keychain template here!
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Sewing Supplies for The Photo Keychain
Before you start sewing, it is worth gathering all the supplies for this project. This photo keychain is made with non-fraying fabrics and a few hardware pieces, so having everything ready makes the sewing process much smoother.
Here’s a quick list of what you’ll need to complete the project:
- Pattern: You’ll need the Photo keychain template or your own customised template if you want a different size.
- Non-fraying fabrics such as cork, vinyl, or faux leather.
- Clear vinyl for the heart-shaped windows.
- 2 eyelets and tools to set them in: I used 5 mm eyelets on my project.
- Spring press snap and tools to install it. I like to use 12 mm snaps.
- Scissors or a rotary cutter to cut out your fabric.
- Precision knife to cut out the heart window.
- Sewing clips: These will help hold everything in place while you sew.
- Fabric marker: Since we’re marking the right side of the fabric, use something that can be easily removed, such as fabric chalk or an erasable marker. This way, you won’t have any permanent markings once you’re done sewing!
- Plus, thread, needle and sewing machine.
How To Sew The Photo Keychain
Once your supplies are ready and your template is printed, you are all set to start sewing your project.
Rather than showing all the steps here on the blog, I have created a full step-by-step video tutorial on my YouTube channel. In the video, I walk you through the entire process, from sewing with cork or faux leather to adding the clear vinyl windows, snap closure, eyelet and key o-ring, so you can follow along and make your own photo keychain with confidence.
You can find the sewing tutorial here ⬇️
Share Your Makes!
This little Photo keychain is one of those projects that is quick to sew but still feels really meaningful. It works beautifully as a last-minute Valentine’s gift, a small keepsake for someone special, or even just a fun scrub-busting project for yourself. Because it is fast to make, you can easily sew a few in one go and play around with different fabrics, photos and sizes.
If you make one, I would love to see it. You can share your photo keychain on social media and tag me @allsewpetite so I can admire your work, or post it inside my Facebook group to share with other bag makers.
More Quick Sewing Projects To Try!
If you enjoyed making this Photo keychain, there is a good chance you will love these projects too. They are all quick sewing projects that are great for gift sewing or for those times when you want to sit down and finish something in one go.
Bookmark penholder
This bookmark pen holder combines a page marker with a pocket for pens or pencils, so you always have something to write with when you need it. It comes in two sizes and is a really satisfying make if you love small, quick projects, you can finish in an afternoon. Check out the full tutorial here.
Mini Coin pouch
A perfect little project to use up small fabric scraps. This cute pouch is quick to sew and ideal for coins, keys, or other tiny essentials. Check out the full tutorial here.
Bloom Pouch
The Bloom Pouch is a charming drawstring bag that opens like a little flower. It’s beginner-friendly, quick to sew, and perfect for holding makeup, sewing notions, small gifts, or little treasures. You can make it in different fabrics and sizes, so it’s easy to customise for whatever you need. Grab the free PDF pattern here.
Ready to Design Your Own Bag Patterns?
If you love sewing and have ever thought about creating your own bag designs, the Bag Maker Community is the perfect place to get started. Inside, you’ll find step‑by‑step guidance on drafting your own patterns, tips on shaping and sizing, and plenty of inspiration to bring your bag ideas to life. It’s all about helping you take control of your designs and feel confident making bags from scratch.
Whether you’re a beginner who wants to try pattern drafting for the first time or an experienced maker looking to expand your skills, the community gives you access to tutorials, downloadable resources, and a supportive space to share your makes and ask questions. If you want to learn more or join, you can find all the details here ⬇️
Stay crafty friend!
Monika x
