Read this post to find out the step-by-step way to create your own reusable bowl covers.

This post contains some affiliate links (that means if you make a purchase after clicking a link, there’s no additional cost to you, but I will earn a very small commission.) Click here to read my full disclosure policy.

I have started picking up more sewing for the past year or two and really enjoy it! It’s such a great feeling of accomplishment being able to use an everyday household item that you made yourself with whatever was lying around!

This is a great project especially for using up any scrap fabric you have, or even fabric you like at the thrift store, or if you have a few fat quarters lying around.

What’s a Fat Quarter?

You can purchase fat quarters in any fabric store. It means a sample of fabric that measures 18″ x 22″. I purchased the cute assortment I’m using today from Hobby Lobby.

Before I begin, I wanted to preface this whole post by saying this is not a direct replacement for saran wrap. Although I do love that this is reusable and washable, these DIY bowl covers aren’t meant to block the air. You’ll need a lightweight cotton or cotton blend fabric and this still allows air to get in.

So if you’re wondering what the point of making these is, let me enlighten you.

Uses For Fabric Bowl Covers

I have made one for my bread mixing bowl. When I’m letting my sourdough proof I just place a bowl cover over it.
Place over a bowl in the fridge, to make fruit easily accessible.
Having a picnic? Protect your food from flies.
Keeps food warm for a short time.
Can use it to cover your homemade kombucha or water kefir
Give it away as a homemade gift
They are more beautiful to look at over saran wrap.
Place it over a plate of treats to be brought to a friend or neighbor.

Options For Making Your Bowl Cover Airtight

I may do another tutorial on how to make it airtight, but you do have a couple different options if you’re eager to try. First, you may consider looking at tutorials on how to make a beeswax wrap and do the same process for these reusable bowl covers.

Or, you could use the bottom layer of fabric as vinyl as it is more airtight. Washing it should be similar, just make sure to let it air dry.

How To Make a Reusable Bowl Cover Video

The Materials & Equipment You’ll Need To Make A Reusable Bowl Cover

Instructions To Make A Reusable Bowl Cover

Wash and dry two pieces of fabric you’re going to use. I just feel better doing this to get any extra chemical residue off because this will be near your food after all. Then iron and you’re ready to go.
Draw your circle pattern. First you can take the bowl you want a cover for and trace it on the fabric (on the wrong side). Then add 2 inches. Take a ruler and mark 2 inches away from the line you just drew all the way around. Connect the dots. This will be your pattern.
Cut out the circle. You’ll want to do this with both your fabric pieces.
Pin both pieces of fabric (right sides together) and sew with a 1/4″ seam using a straight stitch. Leave about an 1 1/2″ undone.
Turn inside out using the small portion left undone.
Iron at the seams. I’ll fold the undone part in and iron that as well.
Choose the side of the cover you want to be the lining that won’t be seen. You’ll be stitching the elastic to the bottom side using a zigzag stitch. I don’t cut it to a specific size. I use a longer piece and stitch as I go. Stretch the elastic as much as you can as you go.
Overlap the elastic a bit at the end and then cut off the excess. You’re done!