DIY: Coffee Sleeve

Enjoy that java on-the-go even more wrapped in an eco-friendly coffee sleeve.

Make your own DIY reusable coffee sleeve.

Coffee consumption is a significant part of American culture. Around 62% of Americans drink coffee every day, reports the National Coffee Association (NCA), averaging about 3 cups per person.

While it is not always possible to avoid disposable coffee cups when we want a cup of joe on-the-go, we can avoid single-use coffee sleeves by carrying our own reusable one. Keep it handy in a purse or the car for the next time you need a pick-me-up when you are away from home. This tutorial can be used to create your own eco-friendly coffee sleeve. 

Supplies Needed:

• 2 fabric pieces

• Cotton batting or backing 

• Elastic cord or small elastic hair ties

• Thread

• Button

• Coffee sleeve pattern

• Sewing machine

• Rotary cutter or scissors

• Cutting mat

Supplies needed to make a DIY coffee sleeve.

Steps to Create a DIY Reusable Coffee Sleeve

Step 1: Create template

Using a disposable coffee sleeve as a guide, create a pattern adding about 3/4 inch to the top and bottom, and about 1 inch on the sides to account for seam allowance all the way around.

Step 2: Layer fabrics

Layer two pieces of fabric evenly together facing each other so that the sides you would like to face out are facing in. Trace the pattern on the fabric and use a rotary cutter to cut both pieces out together so that they are mirror-images. 

Step 3: Cut insulation and pin layers together

Next, use the pattern to cut out a piece of insulated cotton batting to act as a heat suppressant for the coffee sleeve. Since this layer will add some bulk, I found that it helps to trim off the edges about 1/4 inch all the way around so it is easier to sew.

Then pin all of your layers together so that the two decorative pieces are still facing each other and the insulated fabric is attached to the backside of the one you would like to be the front of your coffee sleeve. To ensure the batting is attached after sewing, line one side edge of batting evenly with one side edge of the decorative fabrics. 

Cut two mirror images of fabric and one piece of insulation for a DIY coffee sleeve.

Layer two pieces of decorative fabric to face each other, then add insulation and pin.

Step 4: Sew 

Sew all the way around with a 1/4 inch seam, leaving a 2- to 3- inch gap on one side so that you can later flip it inside out. Trim off corners or excess fabric if needed before flipping inside out.

Step 5: Flip right side out and add elastic 

When right-side out, use the back of a pen to push the corners out. Then iron down the coffee sleeve, folding the raw edges in evenly. Tuck in a piece of elastic cord in the shape of a loop. A small piece of tape can be used to hold the loop together, or a small elastic hair tie also works great. Pin the opening shut to keep everything in place.

After flipping the layers right-side out, tuck the elastic loop in the opening and secure side with a pin.

Step 6: Top stitch around the edge.

Finish the project by sewing 1/4 inch all the way around the outside of the sleeve, closing the opening you just ironed with the elastic loop tucked in.

Step 7: Add button

Finish by testing the coffee sleeve on a cup to decide the best fit and placement of the button. Mark the spot with a pen and then hand sew the button in place.

An assortment of reusable coffee sleeves made from leftover fabrics.

This project is a great way to make use of materials left from other projects when you have a supply of sewing materials laying around. After you make one for yourself, pass on the love by gifting one to a friend. 

—Jill Span Hofbauer