Sewing Christmas Stockings

Your DIY for the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

A handmade Christmas stocking is so much more than decoration – it’s a heartfelt tradition, a memory, and a creative way to give gifts. Originating from England, the custom of filling stockings with little surprises and treats adds a touch of magic to every festive season.

With this easy sewing tutorial, you can create your very own Christmas stockings – completely personal and matching your individual style. Whether you love classic red and green, cosy plush fabrics, patterned cotton or simple neutral tones, the possibilities are endless.

The best part? These Christmas stockings are quick and easy to make – just a few seams and a bit of creativity are all you need. In no time, you’ll have a beautiful handmade decoration or a thoughtful gift that will bring festive joy year after year.

So, grab your fabrics, thread your sewing machine, and start your festive DIY project!

Required Materials

Various cotton fabrics
18 cm × 32 cm white fleece or plush
25 cm satin cord
Optional: 25 cm × 45 cm fusible batting (e.g. Vlieseline H630)
MINI steam iron
MINI iron rest
Ironing pad
Dressmaker’s shears
Pinking shears
Embroidery scissors
Magnetic pin cushion
Point and edge turner
Sewing machine needles
Matching sewing thread
Optional accessories, e.g. “Handmade” label
Paper scissors

Printable pattern template

Step 1: Cutting the fabric

Print the Christmas stocking template in “actual size” and cut out the pattern with paper scissors. Pre-iron your cotton fabrics with steam and cut the following pieces:

Stocking shape: cut 2 mirrored pieces each from outer fabric and lining fabric (add seam allowance)
Cuff: cut 2 pieces on the fold from plush (add seam allowance)
Optional: cut 2 mirrored pieces from fusible batting

Tip: If your fabric pattern doesn’t have a specific direction, you can cut double layers to save time. If you want certain motifs or patterns to be placed precisely, align the template carefully and cut the pieces individually.

If you’re using fusible batting, press it onto the wrong side of your outer fabric pieces now.

Step 2: Sewing the cuff

Lay all the cut pieces in front of you as shown in the image. Place one outer stocking piece and one lining piece on either side of the cuff – the toe sections should point in the same direction.

Sew the straight edges of the leg sections right sides together to the cuff. Make sure the cotton fabric is on top while sewing.

You’ll now have two mirrored units – each consisting of the outer stocking, cuff, and lining.

Step 3: Adding the hanging loop

If you’d like your Christmas stocking to have a hanging loop, fold the satin cord in half. Place it at the back edge of the lining stocking, exactly at the transition to the cuff. The ends should slightly extend beyond the edge, with the loop lying on the cuff. Secure it with a few stitches within the seam allowance.

Now place both stocking–cuff units right sides together. The lining pieces should align with each other, as should the outer pieces. Pin everything in place and make sure the cord loop lies completely inside and won’t be caught in the seam.

Step 4: Sewing and turning

Sew all around the outer edge of the stocking, leaving an opening of about 8 cm (3 in) at the back of the lining for turning.

Trim the seam allowances along the curved edges with pinking shears, then turn the stocking right side out.

Step 5: Finishing touches

Use the point and edge turner to carefully shape the seams. Close the turning opening in the lining with a narrow topstitch.

Insert the lining into the outer stocking so the folded edge of the cuff forms the top edge.

That’s it – your handmade Christmas stocking is ready!

For an extra personal touch, you can add a Handmade label, embroidery, or small decorative elements.

Your DIY Christmas stocking is now a festive highlight – perfect as a handmade gift or as charming decoration for your home.